Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

S.1603 - Preserving Rural Housing Investments Act (119th Congress)

Summary

S.1603, the Preserving Rural Housing Investments Act, aims to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. It seeks to clarify tax-exempt controlled entity rules concerning stock of government-sponsored enterprises like the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and the Federal National Mortgage Association. The bill specifies that for the purpose of these rules, the term 'tax-exempt entity' should not include the United States or its agencies.

Expected Effects

The primary effect of this bill would be to change how certain government-sponsored enterprises are treated under tax law. Specifically, it would prevent the United States government and its agencies from being classified as 'tax-exempt entities' in the context of these rules. This clarification could impact the financial operations and tax liabilities of these enterprises, potentially influencing the availability of rural housing investments.

Potential Benefits

  • Potentially encourages more investment in rural housing by clarifying tax rules.
  • May simplify tax compliance for government-sponsored enterprises.
  • Could lead to more efficient allocation of resources within these enterprises.
  • May reduce uncertainty regarding the tax status of these entities.
  • Could stabilize the financial operations of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and the Federal National Mortgage Association.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Potential for unintended consequences due to changes in tax law.
  • May disproportionately benefit specific government-sponsored enterprises over others.
  • Possible increase in complexity for other areas of tax law.
  • Risk of creating loopholes that could be exploited.
  • Limited direct impact on most American citizens outside of rural housing markets.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill appears to align with the constitutional principle of Congress's power to tax and regulate commerce (Article I, Section 8). It does not seem to infringe upon individual rights or liberties as defined in the Bill of Rights. The clarification of tax rules falls within the scope of Congress's legislative authority.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).