S.1695 - HUD-USDA-VA Interagency Coordination Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1695, the HUD-USDA-VA Interagency Coordination Act, aims to improve collaboration among the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in housing programs. The bill mandates these agencies to establish a memorandum of understanding for sharing housing-related research and market data. It also requires them to submit a joint report to Congress detailing opportunities for increased collaboration to improve efficiencies in housing programs.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to better-informed policymaking through the sharing of data and research. Increased collaboration could streamline housing programs and make them more efficient. The report to Congress will highlight specific areas for improvement and potential synergies between the agencies.
Potential Benefits
- Improved evidence-based policymaking through shared research and data.
- Increased efficiency in housing programs due to better interagency collaboration.
- Identification of opportunities for streamlining services for veterans, rural communities, and other populations served by these agencies.
- Better coordination could lead to more effective use of taxpayer dollars.
- Public input through the Federal Register publication ensures transparency and accountability.
Potential Disadvantages
- The report and memorandum of understanding may create additional bureaucratic processes.
- There may be initial costs associated with establishing the interagency agreement and compiling the report.
- The Act does not guarantee that the recommendations in the report will be implemented.
- Potential for delays in program implementation due to the need for interagency coordination.
- The 30-day comment period may not be sufficient for all stakeholders to provide meaningful input.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by aiming to improve housing programs. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to legislate on matters related to the general welfare. The requirement for a report to Congress ensures legislative oversight, consistent with the principle of checks and balances.
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).