Overview
Title
Making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes.
ELI5 AI
This bill is like a plan to use money to fix roads and help people find homes, but it needs to make sure the money is spent wisely and fairly. It’s a bit like setting rules for a big piggy bank to make sure everyone shares and no one cheats.
Summary AI
The bill S. 4796 allocates funds for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, for the Departments of Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies. It covers various appropriations, including funding for transportation infrastructure, public housing programs, and community development initiatives. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for specific projects and establishes guidelines for the use of funds, while emphasizing public accountability and transparency. It also enables various housing and urban development activities aimed at improving residential conditions and expanding housing opportunities.
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AnalysisAI
This editorial commentary analyzes a recent appropriations bill from the United States Congress, focusing on the Departments of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025.
General Summary of the Bill
The bill sets out to allocate financial resources to various programs within the Departments of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development, as well as associated agencies. Broad categories covered include infrastructure investments, transportation safety initiatives, public and tribal housing programs, community planning, development projects, and urban revitalization efforts. Furthermore, it establishes specific financial regulations and restrictions concerning the allocation and use of funds.
Significant Issues
Several key issues have arisen from the provisions within the bill:
Lack of Transparency: The bill lacks detailed accountability mechanisms, particularly concerning large appropriations for infrastructure investments and the rural and tribal infrastructure advancement programs. This absence can leave room for wasteful spending and misuse of funds.
Restrictions on FAA Reorganization: The prohibition in Section 119C against the reorganization of FAA regional offices could impede necessary adaptations or improvements that enhance operational efficiency or address safety concerns.
Favoritism and Allocation Concerns: Section 235, which excludes the consideration of family self-sufficiency performance measures in funding awards, could lead to inefficient resource allocation and the support of less effective programs.
Ambiguous Loan Criteria: Sections 109 and 240 are problematic due to vague criteria for granting infrastructure loans, potentially leading to favoritism or misuse.
Hiring Preferences: Section 190 allows for flexible hiring preferences, which, without clear guidelines, may result in unfair labor practices.
Undefined Terms: Various sections within the bill include ambiguous terms that could lead to differing interpretations, impacting fair application and contributing to potential misuse or favoritism.
Undermined Housing Policies: Section 421 potentially weakens the enforcement of fair housing standards due to restrictive language concerning zoning laws, affecting equitable housing efforts.
Inspector General Access: Section 415 allows exceptions to Inspector General access, potentially undermining oversight and accountability.
Liberal Use of Unobligated Balances: Section 224 allows for unobligated balances in research activities without stringent reprogramming requirements, raising concerns about transparency.
Broad Whistleblower Protections: Section 245 extends protections broadly, potentially leading to enforcement inconsistencies.
Impact on the Public
Broadly, this bill aims to improve infrastructure and housing, which could create jobs, improve public safety, and bolster the economy. However, the lack of transparency and accountability mechanisms may result in public funds being misallocated or wasted, ultimately hindering those benefits.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
Transportation and Housing Authorities: These departments stand to gain significant funding if they can navigate the complexities of the bill. However, the lack of clear guidelines could also lead to missteps that result in reputational damage or financial oversight.
Public Housing Residents and Applicants: Changes in funding processes and incentives could impact the availability and quality of housing, particularly for low-income and non-traditional beneficiaries. Without performance measures impacting funding, some innovative or effective programs might not receive adequate resources.
Tribal Governments: Increased funding without restrictive oversight could potentially benefit tribal infrastructure; however, whether these benefits are realized uniformly remains uncertain.
Companies and Contractors: Entities involved in projects funded by this bill must tread carefully regarding procurement and performance-related clauses. Transparent, competitive bidding and contract fulfillment will be essential to avoid accusations of favoritism or inefficiency.
In conclusion, while the legislation provides a comprehensive framework for directing resources toward vital infrastructure and housing projects, its success depends heavily on the implementation of clear guidelines and robust oversight mechanisms to ensure that spending remains accountable and equitable. Without these elements, the potential for misuse or inefficient allocation of resources could undermine the bill’s intended benefits.
Financial Assessment
The bill, S. 4796, outlines significant financial allocations to various sectors under the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, as well as related agencies. This financial commentary aims to elucidate the spending elements outlined in the bill, in connection with issues related to transparency, efficiency, and oversight.
Transportation Financial Allocations
The bill specifies several expenditures related to transportation infrastructure and safety. For instance, it allocates $550,000,000 for National Infrastructure Investments, including conditions for geographic distribution and equitable investments in urban and rural areas. This funding aims to support local and regional project assistance programs.
Despite the strategic intent, there are concerns about transparency and accountability in how these funds will be utilized. The bill does not provide clear guidelines on how money allocations will be monitored, potentially leading to inefficiencies and favoritism, as identified in the issues section.
An allocation of $25,000,000 is designated for the Rural and Tribal Infrastructure Advancement, another area that faces scrutiny. Stakeholders are concerned about potential favoritism or misuse due to a lack of explicit criteria detailing fund distribution or project selection processes.
Additionally, the FAA has limitations on reorganizing regional offices with funds from this bill, potentially blocking necessary efficiency improvements in air traffic management or safety practices. This is a critical area tied to financial management, influencing potential cost management or savings outcomes.
Housing and Urban Development Financial Allocations
Significant funds are directed towards housing programs, including $31,260,450,000 for Tenant-Based Rental Assistance. This involves renewing section 8 contracts and housing vouchers. While serving critical housing needs, the section's execution risks are similarly shadowed by a lack of clear guidance, raising issues about the effective use of funds.
The bill also includes $1,046,400,000 for Housing for the Elderly and $256,700,000 for Housing for Persons with Disabilities. These amounts are aimed toward capital advances and supportive services, yet they come with unspecified requirements for residual receipts accounts, which might affect funds' reallocation or future availability for other urgent needs.
Moreover, $10,000,000 is earmarked under the Preservation and Reinvestment Initiative for Community Enhancement. The allocation's flexibility without firm guidelines enhances the risk of misinterpretation or favoritism.
Concerns related to obstructing HUD’s ability to enforce standards due to zoning law changes could potentially affect equitable distribution, given the priorities often set by these standards.
Oversight and Transparency
Several sections within the bill call attention to the challenges of monitoring and oversight. Section 405 establishes reprogramming guidelines, limiting augmentations beyond $5,000,000 or 10 percent. However, this does not compensate for areas with vague controls over unobligated funds or performance metrics.
Furthermore, the accessibility of funds for research without needing reprogramming authority and lacking transparency (Section 224) risks efficient resource allocation. Plus, Section 415 potentially curtails transparency more by granting exceptions on Inspector General’s access to certain records–an area requiring clear guidelines to uphold accountability.
In essence, S. 4796 encompasses numerous significant allocations toward improving infrastructure and housing. While there is commendable intent, the bill's effectiveness depends heavily on establishing and maintaining robust transparency and accountability measures. Addressing ambiguities and ensuring precise oversight will be indispensable for achieving efficient and fair utilization of the allocated funds.
Issues
The bill lacks transparency and accountability mechanisms for certain expenditures, such as national infrastructure investments and rural and tribal infrastructure advancement (Sections regarding these appropriations, such as 'National Infrastructure Investments' and 'Rural and Tribal Infrastructure Advancement').
The restriction on reorganizing FAA regional offices could prevent essential changes needed to improve efficiency in air traffic management or safety practices (Section 119C).
The prohibition on grants based on family self-sufficiency performance measures could result in inefficient allocation of resources to programs (Section 235).
The ambiguity surrounding the criteria for infrastructure program loans raises concerns about potential favoritism or misuse (Sections 109 and 240).
The section allowing for flexible hiring preferences without clear guidelines could result in unfair labor practices or discrimination (Section 190).
Ambiguities and undefined terms in transportation and housing sections introduce risks of misinterpretation, potentially leading to misuse or favoritism (Numerous sections, such as 164 regarding project impediments and 170 concerning the Maritime Administration).
The lack of clarity and oversight terms for the transfer and management of unobligated balances could lead to inefficient expenditure (Section 165 and others concerning fund transfers).
The absence of strict guidelines on awarding performance-based contract administrator roles could result in mismanagement or wasteful spending (Section 234).
The bill's section on obstructing HUD's ability to enforce fair housing standards due to zoning law changes may undermine efforts to promote equitable housing policies (Section 421).
The language allowing exceptions to Inspector General access without explicit criteria can lead to operational inefficiencies and accountability issues (Section 415).
The unrestricted use of unobligated balances for HUD research activities without reprogramming requirements raises transparency concerns (Section 224).
The potential broad application of whistleblower protections without clear processes might lead to a lack of enforcement consistency and possible misapplication (Section 245).
Sections
Sections are presented as they are annotated in the original legislative text. Any missing headers, numbers, or non-consecutive order is due to the original text.
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Summary AI
The section specifies that certain amounts are allocated from available funds in the Treasury for the Departments of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development as well as related agencies for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2025, and for additional unspecified purposes.
101. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that the funds provided to the Department of Transportation cannot be used by the Office of the Secretary of Transportation to approve certain financial agreements related to the operating administrations unless those agreements have been part of routine congressional notification, except for activities that were already in progress when the Act was enacted.
102. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary of the Department of Transportation is required to publish a schedule and agenda for all meetings of the Council on Credit and Finance on the department's website and ensure that the decisions and actions from each meeting are recorded.
103. Read Opens in new tab
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The Department's Working Capital Fund is allowed to pay in advance and get reimbursed from federal agencies for transit benefit services for government employees, as stated in Executive Order No. 13150 and section 3049 of SAFETEA–LU. The Fund must keep a reserve to ensure these benefits continue without interruption, which should not exceed the cost of one month's benefits and must be reimbursed by each agency for the actual cost.
104. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that up to 10% of the money collected by the Department’s Working Capital Fund from unused transit and van pool benefits during the fiscal year 2024 can be used indefinitely for contractual services related to another section of the Act. However, the obligations for fiscal year 2025 should not be more than $1,000,000.
Money References
- Receipts collected in the Department’s Working Capital Fund, as authorized by section 327 of title 49, United States Code, for unused transit and van pool benefits, in an amount not to exceed 10 percent of fiscal year 2024 collections, shall be available until expended in the Department’s Working Capital Fund to provide contractual services in support of section 189 of this Act: Provided, That obligations in fiscal year 2025 of such collections shall not exceed $1,000,000.
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None of the funds from this section can be used for giving bonuses to employees of the Department of Transportation unless the Assistant Secretary for Administration has given written approval beforehand.
106. Read Opens in new tab
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The Department's Administrative Working Capital Fund is given special permission to move information technology equipment, software, and systems from within the department or other groups. They can also keep a reserve fund by setting rates that will cover the full cost of these transferred assets.
107. Read Opens in new tab
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In Section 107, the text states that the Department of Transportation cannot use the funds from this Act to provide credit assistance without giving at least a three-day advance written notice to several congressional committees. This notice must contain specific details about the credit assistance, including the project's sponsor, a description of the project, the form of credit assistance, and the amount involved.
108. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary of Transportation is allowed to move money given to a federally recognized Tribe, according to a funding agreement under a specific part of the U.S. regulations, from the Department of Transportation to the Office of Tribal Government Affairs. If any of that money is given back or taken back, it can be transferred to the right department again.
109. Read Opens in new tab
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Amounts provided to the Secretary of Transportation or the Department's operating administrations can be transferred to a special account for managing financial assistance under certain programs, remaining available until fully used. These programs include the local and regional project assistance program and the university transportation centers program, with transferred funds adding to other available resources for these uses.
109A. Read Opens in new tab
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In this section, it mandates that for funds allocated during the current and previous fiscal years, a specific part of an existing law (section 24112(c)(2)(B) of Public Law 117–58) should now use "30 percent" instead of "40 percent".
109B. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary is allowed to move up to $1,641,000 from the "Office of the Secretary—Salaries and Expenses" budget to different parts of the Department to cover rent payments. If some of this money isn't needed for rent anymore, it can be moved back to the original budget.
Money References
- The Secretary may transfer up to $1,641,000 from amounts made available under the heading “Office of the Secretary—Salaries and Expenses” to the Department’s operating administrations for rent payments: Provided, That such amounts transferred for rent payments that are no longer needed may be transferred back to such account.
109C. Read Opens in new tab
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This section states that if the Act is passed by September 30, 2024, any unused funds from the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, for certain infrastructure investments will be canceled and an equivalent amount will be allocated to continuing projects from fiscal years 2019 and 2020 without requiring additional competition.
110. Read Opens in new tab
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Congress prohibits using the funds from this Act to pay for more than 600 technical staff-years under the contract between the Federal Aviation Administration and the Center for Advanced Aviation Systems Development in the fiscal year 2025.
111. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that no money from this Act can be used to make airports provide free buildings, maintenance, or utilities to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for activities like air traffic control or weather reporting. However, this restriction doesn't stop the FAA from negotiating with airports for cheaper rates or making agreements that allow the FAA to use airport land for air traffic control facilities without cost.
112. Read Opens in new tab
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The section allows the Federal Aviation Administration to use certain collected fees to repay funds used for a specific aviation program, according to a section of U.S. law, and any leftover funds at the end of the fiscal year can be used for the same program in the next year.
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Amounts collected under section 40113(e) of title 49 of the U.S. Code will be added to the existing funds at the time of collection and used for the same purposes as those funds.
114. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds provided by this Act can be used to pay additional wage premiums to Federal Aviation Administration employees unless they actually worked during the time period for which the premium is paid.
115. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds from this law can be used by Federal Aviation Administration employees to buy store gift cards or gift certificates with a government-issued credit card.
116. Read Opens in new tab
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This section states that no funds provided by this or previous Acts can be used to restrict a private aircraft owner or operator from requesting the FAA to block their aircraft's registration number and similar identifiers from public tracking services, except when the data is shared with a government agency for noncommercial flights.
117. Read Opens in new tab
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In Section 117, the bill states that no funds from this Act can be used to pay for the salaries and expenses of more than nine political and Presidential appointees at the Federal Aviation Administration.
118. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) cannot use funds from this Act to increase fees related to aeronautical navigation products until it provides a report to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations. This report must justify the fees and demonstrate that they align with Executive Order No. 13642.
119. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that the Federal Aviation Administration cannot use any funds from this act to close a regional operations center or reduce its services without informing the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations at least 90 business days before taking such action.
119A. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that no money from the act can be used to alter weight limits or rules about needing prior permission for flights at Teterboro Airport in New Jersey.
119B. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) cannot use any funds from this Act to stop considering or approving applications for the contract tower program. It also specifies that reassessment for cost-share program participants is allowed if the airport has applied and the FAA's criteria confirm eligibility.
119C. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds provided by this Act can be used to change the status of a regional office, the aeronautical center, or the technical center, such as opening, closing, reorganizing, or redesignating these offices, unless the Administrator requests to reprogram the funds under section 405 of this Act.
119D. Limitations Read Opens in new tab
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The section amends a part of the United States Code by specifying the conditions under which certain air traffic systems or equipment can be transferred to the Federal Aviation Administration. It states that for systems purchased after October 5, 2018, and before December 31, 2021, in contiguous U.S. airports, they can be transferred without charge if a government grant helped purchase them and they meet the Administrator's performance specifications.
119E. Read Opens in new tab
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The section explains that changes to organizational units within the Federal Aviation Administration are generally not bound by specific requirements unless these changes alter the organization chart included in the President's budget justification. Additionally, if such a change involves a unit mentioned in the budget justification but not in the chart, the FAA must inform the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations within three business days.
120. Exceptions from obligation limitation Read Opens in new tab
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The section outlines how the Secretary of Transportation should allocate and limit funds for Federal-aid highways for the fiscal year 2025. It specifies exceptions to these limitations, procedures for redistributing any funds that cannot be used, and guidelines for reallocating certain funds to states in need, ensuring the funds remain available over a set period.
Money References
- SEC. 120. (a) For fiscal year 2025, the Secretary of Transportation shall— (1) not distribute from the obligation limitation for Federal-aid highways— (A) amounts authorized for administrative expenses and programs by section 104(a) of title 23, United States Code; and (B) amounts authorized for the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (2) not distribute an amount from the obligation limitation for Federal-aid highways that is equal to the unobligated balance of amounts— (A) made available from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) for Federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs for previous fiscal years the funds for which are allocated by the Secretary (or apportioned by the Secretary under section 202 or 204 of title 23, United States Code); and (B) for which obligation limitation was provided in a previous fiscal year; (3) determine the proportion that— (A) the obligation limitation for Federal-aid highways, less the aggregate of amounts not distributed under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection; bears to (B) the total of the sums authorized to be appropriated for the Federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs (other than sums authorized to be appropriated for provisions of law described in paragraphs (1) through (11) of subsection (b) and sums authorized to be appropriated for section 119 of title 23, United States Code, equal to the amount referred to in subsection (b)(12) for such fiscal year), less the aggregate of the amounts not distributed under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection; (4) distribute the obligation limitation for Federal-aid highways, less the aggregate amounts not distributed under paragraphs (1) and (2), for each of the programs (other than programs to which paragraph (1) applies) that are allocated by the Secretary under authorized Federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs, or apportioned by the Secretary under section 202 or 204 of title 23, United States Code, by multiplying— (A) the proportion determined under paragraph (3); by (B) the amounts authorized to be appropriated for each such program for such fiscal year; and (5) distribute the obligation limitation for Federal-aid highways, less the aggregate amounts not distributed under paragraphs (1) and (2) and the amounts distributed under paragraph (4), for Federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs that are apportioned by the Secretary under title 23, United States Code (other than the amounts apportioned for the national highway performance program in section 119 of title 23, United States Code, that are exempt from the limitation under subsection (b)(12) and the amounts apportioned under sections 202 and 204 of that title) in the proportion that— (A) amounts authorized to be appropriated for the programs that are apportioned under title 23, United States Code, to each State for such fiscal year; bears to (B) the total of the amounts authorized to be appropriated for the programs that are apportioned under title 23, United States Code, to all States for such fiscal year. (b) Exceptions from obligation limitation.—The obligation limitation for Federal-aid highways shall not apply to obligations under or for— (1) section 125 of title 23, United States Code; (2) section 147 of the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1978 (23 U.S.C. 144 note; 92 Stat. 2714); (3) section 9 of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1981 (95 Stat. 1701); (4) subsections (b) and (j) of section 131 of the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 2119); (5) subsections (b) and (c) of section 149 of the Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act of 1987 (101 Stat. 198); (6) sections 1103 through 1108 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (105 Stat. 2027); (7) section 157 of title 23, United States Code (as in effect on June 8, 1998); (8) section 105 of title 23, United States Code (as in effect for fiscal years 1998 through 2004, but only in an amount equal to $639,000,000 for each of those fiscal years); (9) Federal-aid highway programs for which obligation authority was made available under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (112 Stat. 107) or subsequent Acts for multiple years or to remain available until expended, but only to the extent that the obligation authority has not lapsed or been used; (10) section 105 of title 23, United States Code (as in effect for fiscal years 2005 through 2012, but only in an amount equal to $639,000,000 for each of those fiscal years); (11) section 1603 of SAFETEA–LU (23 U.S.C. 118 note; 119 Stat. 1248), to the extent that funds obligated in accordance with that section were not subject to a limitation on obligations at the time at which the funds were initially made available for obligation; and (12) section 119 of title 23, United States Code (but, for each of fiscal years 2013 through 2025, only in an amount equal to $639,000,000).
121. Read Opens in new tab
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In this section, it is stated that money made from selling data products by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics can be added to the Federal-aid highways account, allowing the Bureau to be reimbursed for necessary expenses related to transportation data activities, even if this doesn't follow the usual financial rules.
122. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary of Transportation, before waiving any Buy America requirements for highway projects, must give the public at least 15 days to comment on the planned waiver and post any granted waivers on a website.
123. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds in this Act can be used for a project grant under a specific section of U.S. Code unless the Secretary notifies and justifies it to certain House and Senate Committees at least 60 days before making the grant.
124. Read Opens in new tab
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In this section, a State or territory can use designated federal funds for eligible projects if they notify the Secretary of Transportation and submit annual reports. These funds can be used for up to three years, but only if the projects have used less than 10% of their allocated money, and the projects are located within 25 miles of the original funding area. The Secretary must also report to Congress with information from states and territories each year.
125. Read Opens in new tab
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The section allocates $63 million for states with low population density or small populations with poor bridge conditions, and $150 million for the Tribal transportation program, using funds previously set aside for transportation infrastructure finance. The funds are for bridge replacement or rehabilitation on public roads, and are available until September 30, 2028, with specific limitations and conditions on their use.
Money References
- SEC. 125. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, $63,000,000 from the funds described in subsection (c), in addition to amounts made available in paragraph (9) under the heading “Highway Infrastructure Programs”, shall be available for a competitive highway bridge program for States that— (1) have— (A) a population density of less than 115 individuals per square mile; or (B) a population of less than 1,100,000 individuals; and (2) have— (A) less than 26 percent of total bridges classified as in good condition; or (B) greater than or equal to 5.2 percent of total bridges classified as in poor condition: Provided, That any such State with more than 14 percent of total bridges classified as in poor condition shall receive not less than $32,500,000 of the funds made available under this subsection or in paragraph (9) under the heading ‘Highway Infrastructure Programs’ for grant applications for projects eligible under this subsection:
- Provided further, That if the Secretary determines that eligible applications from any such State meeting the criteria under the preceding proviso are insufficient to make awards of at least $32,500,000, the Secretary shall use the unutilized amounts to provide other grants to States eligible under this subsection:
- Provided further, That no State shall be awarded more than $55,000,000 in awards from funds made available under this subsection or in paragraph (9) under the heading ‘Highway Infrastructure Programs’: Provided further, That the funds made available under this subsection shall be used for highway bridge replacement or rehabilitation projects on public roads that demonstrate cost savings by bundling multiple highway bridge projects and, except as otherwise provided in this section, shall be administered as if apportioned under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code: Provided further, That the requirements of section 144(j)(5) of title 23, United States Code, shall not apply to funds made available under this subsection: Provided further, That for purposes of this subsection, the Secretary shall calculate population and population density figures based on the latest available data from the decennial census conducted under section 141(a) of title 13, United States Code:
- (b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, $150,000,000 from the funds described in subsection (c) shall be available for activities eligible under the Tribal transportation program, as described in section 202 of title 23, United States Code: Provided, That, except as otherwise provided under this subsection, the funds made available under this subsection shall be administered as if allocated under chapter 2 of title 23, United States Code: Provided further, That the set-asides described in subparagraph (C) of section 202(b)(3) of title 23, United States Code, and subsections (a)(6), (c), and (e) of section 202 of such title shall not apply to funds made available under this subsection:
130. Read Opens in new tab
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The section prohibits the Department of Transportation from using government funds to enforce rules requiring commercial vehicle operators, who transport livestock or insects, to use electronic logging devices.
131. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that no money from this or any other law can be used to force a trucking company to use inward facing cameras or to register an apprenticeship program with the Department of Labor to join the safe driver apprenticeship pilot program.
140. Read Opens in new tab
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The limitations on spending for National Highway Traffic Safety Administration programs in this Act do not affect spending that was allowed by previous laws, as long as the authority to spend hasn't expired or been used up.
141. Read Opens in new tab
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The text outlines the allocation of funds to create a Vulnerable Road User Advisory Committee, which will advise on reducing accidents involving at-risk road users. This committee, consisting of 10 to 15 non-governmental members from diverse backgrounds, will operate for 6 years and meet at least annually to provide safety recommendations and progress assessments, which the Secretary of Transportation will respond to within 60 days.
Money References
- Of the funds made available under this Act to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, not less than $50,000, and of the funds made available under this Act to the Federal Highway Administration, not less than $50,000, to remain available until September 30, 2030, shall be to establish a Vulnerable Road User Advisory Committee to advise the Secretary on reducing fatalities and injuries to vulnerable road users, including for administrative support and supplies necessary for the Committee to carry out its duties:
150. Read Opens in new tab
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The section allows money allocated to the Secretary or the Federal Railroad Administration for managing financial assistance to be moved to a different account to cover expenses related to managing and overseeing these funds. However, this does not apply to funds that Congress previously marked as emergency spending.
151. Read Opens in new tab
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The section of the bill specifies that the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, also known as Amtrak, cannot use funds to pay more than $35,000 in overtime to any single employee. However, the President of Amtrak can allow exceptions if the overtime limit threatens safety or efficiency, and must report to Congress detailing all overtime payments and waiver details for the current and past three years.
Money References
- SEC. 151. None of the funds made available to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation may be used to fund any overtime costs in excess of $35,000 for any individual employee:
152. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that the funds from this Act cannot be used by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) in a manner that would violate the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, which requires certain employers to give advance notice of significant layoffs or business closures.
153. Read Opens in new tab
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The Union Station Redevelopment Corporation is eligible to receive grants for intercity passenger rail projects under a specific U.S. code for the 2025 fiscal year. Additionally, certain restrictions usually applied to these grants will not apply to the Union Station Redevelopment Corporation.
154. Read Opens in new tab
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Congress believes that long-distance passenger rail routes are essential for providing transportation to millions of riders, especially in rural areas, and should be maintained to keep the national network connected.
160. Read Opens in new tab
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The section specifies that the financial limits for Federal Transit Administration programs do not apply to previously given permissions under a certain U.S. code or any other earlier permissions to spend money.
161. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds allocated under the "Capital Investment Grants" by the Federal Transit Administration, which haven't been used by September 30, 2028, will be redirected to other eligible projects that can utilize the funds for their original purposes.
162. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds that were allocated before October 1, 2024, under any part of Chapter 53 of Title 49 of the U.S. Code may be moved and managed under the most current funding category for that section.
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Funds from this Act or any other Act cannot be used to change or reduce funding as described in a specific part of the Internal Revenue Code.
164. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds provided by this law or any other law cannot be used to block or slow down the progress or approval of a project that is applying for a federal contribution from the capital investment grants program if the project requests more than 40% of its costs, as permitted under section 5309 of title 49, United States Code.
165. Read Opens in new tab
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If this Act is enacted by September 30, 2024, any leftover money not yet used from the "Capital Investment Grants" in the 2021 Appropriations Act will be taken back and the same amount of new funding will be provided for finishing already awarded projects, available until September 30, 2025.
166. Read Opens in new tab
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The section outlines the transfer of unobligated funds from various transportation programs to different sections of the United States Code. These funds will be used for projects like clean fuel grants, rural transportation accessibility, alternatives analysis, and other transit-related initiatives, with some specifically aiding areas of persistent poverty or historically disadvantaged communities.
Money References
- SEC. 166. (a) Of the unobligated balances made available for the “Clean Fuels Grant Program” under section 5308 of title 49, United States Code, $4,009,637 shall be transferred to and administered under section 5339(c) of title 49, United States Code.
- (b) Of the unobligated balances made available for the “Rural Transportation Accessibility Incentive Program” under section 3038 of Public Law 105–178, $4,072,214 shall be transferred to and administered under section 5311 of title 49, United States Code.
- (c) Of the unobligated balances made available for the “Alternatives Analysis Program” under section 5339 of title 49, United States Code, $3,179,941 shall be transferred to and administered under section 5305 of title 49, United States Code.
- (d) Of the unobligated balances made available for “Alternative Transportation in Parks and Public Lands” under section 5320 of title 49, United States Code, $2,154,502 shall be transferred to and administered under section 5311 of title 49, United States Code. (e) Of the unobligated balances made available for “Job Access and Reverse Commute Formula Grants” under section 5316 of title 49, United States Code, $47,498,373 shall be available for competitive grants to eligible entities to assist areas of persistent poverty as defined under section 6702(a)(1) of title 49, United States Code, or historically disadvantaged communities, for the same purposes for which amounts were provided for grants to areas of persistent poverty under the heading “Federal Transit Administration—Transit Infrastructure Grants” in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 (Public Law 117–103).
- (f) Of the unobligated balances made available for “New Freedom” under section 5317 of title 49, United States Code, $41,864,086 shall be transferred and administered under section 5310 of title 49, United States Code.
- (g) Of the unobligated balances made available for “Bus Capital” under section 5039 if title 49, United States Code, $84,652,833 shall be transferred and administered under section 5339 of title 49, United States Code. ---
167. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In fiscal year 2025, funds for certain transportation grants can cover up to 100% of project costs, even if other laws usually require less Federal support. This includes grants under sections 5310 and 5311 for general transportation projects and sections 5339(b) and 5339(c) specifically for activities by federally recognized Indian Tribes.
168. Read Opens in new tab
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In Section 168 of a bill amending United States Code title 49, the term “Corridor preservation” is changed to “Real property interests,” and the phrase "right-of-way" is replaced with "real property interests." Additionally, it specifies that these interests are "acquired."
169. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds from this Act can be used to give contracts to entities that met certain criteria after December 20, 2019, as outlined in a specific section of U.S. law, or to any related business formed from its reorganization or restructure, regardless of whether the new entity now meets those criteria.
170. Read Opens in new tab
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The section grants the Maritime Administration the authority to provide utilities, services, and repairs for government properties they control. Payments received for these services can be used to cover their costs, while payments for rent are to be sent to the Treasury.
180. Read Opens in new tab
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During the current fiscal year, the Department of Transportation can use its budget for various aircraft-related expenses, purchasing insurance for vehicles used abroad, and providing uniforms. They can also buy and use drones if it helps with their goals, and any drones bought before the law was enforced are considered legally approved.
181. Read Opens in new tab
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Appropriations for the Department of Transportation in this act can be used to hire services as allowed by law, but the payment for individuals hired cannot be higher than the daily pay rate for an Executive Level IV position.
182. Read Opens in new tab
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Recipients of funds from this Act are prohibited from sharing personal information obtained from state motor vehicle departments unless it's legally allowed under specific sections of the law. However, if a state doesn't comply with this rule, the government won't take back the funds already given to grantees.
183. Read Opens in new tab
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This section states that the funds from this Act cannot be used to pay for the salaries and expenses of more than 125 political and Presidential appointees in the Department of Transportation. Additionally, these personnel cannot be temporarily assigned to work outside of the Department.
184. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds received by the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Railroad Administration from various sources for training can be added to specific accounts for highways and safety operations, with the exception of funds for State rail safety inspectors attending certain training.
185. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds provided by this Act or a specific law for the Department of Transportation cannot be used for loans, agreements, or grants unless the Secretary of Transportation informs the House and Senate Appropriations Committees at least three business days before announcing any project selected to receive these funds. The Secretary must also give the committees a list of all loans and grants before notifying them about a project, and notify them immediately when there are emergency relief fund releases, ensuring no notifications are made for funds that are not yet available.
186. Read Opens in new tab
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Rebates, refunds, incentive payments, minor fees, and other funds received by the Department of Transportation from various sources are to be credited to the Department's funding and distributed fairly to its different units, and these funds will be available until they are fully spent.
187. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds affected by this Act that require notification for reprogramming must be reported only to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, and they are the ones who will approve or deny it. The Secretary of Transportation can notify other congressional committees about the decision, but only after 30 days have passed since the decision was made by the Appropriations Committees.
188. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds appropriated by this Act can only be used by the Office of the Secretary for costs related to assessments or agreements if those expenses directly benefit the specific operating administration receiving them.
189. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary of Transportation can create a program to set up consistent rules for making and providing transit passes and benefits. This includes distributing these benefits using different types of physical and digital formats.
190. Read Opens in new tab
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The Department of Transportation can support projects that prefer local hires for contracts if they confirm there's a nearby pool of unemployed people with the skills needed, ensure existing workers aren't replaced to meet hiring rules, and ensure any increased costs don't delay other transport projects.
191. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that no money provided by this act can be used to force anyone receiving federal funds to put up signs with the names of the President, Vice President, or any Cabinet members as a condition to receive those funds.
201. Read Opens in new tab
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The section explains that 50% of certain funds recovered from specified housing projects should either be canceled or returned to the Treasury. The remaining funds can be used by state or local housing agencies for approved projects, and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development may allow up to 15% of these funds to offer project owners incentives to refinance at a lower interest rate.
202. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds from this Act cannot be used to investigate or prosecute any lawful actions that are meant to influence or stop a decision by a government official or court, even if it involves a legal action under the Fair Housing Act.
203. Read Opens in new tab
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In Section 203, the text explains that any financial assistance given under title II of the Act, such as grants or cooperative agreements, must be awarded competitively. This means they follow rules set in a specific 1989 housing law unless another law clearly states otherwise.
204. Read Opens in new tab
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The section permits the Department of Housing and Urban Development to use its funds for legal services and payments to various financial institutions without being limited by administrative expense caps. These institutions include the Federal National Mortgage Association, Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, and others involved in housing finance.
205. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that unless mentioned otherwise in this Act or through adjustments in funding, the Department of Housing and Urban Development cannot use any of its budget for programs, projects, or activities beyond the amounts specified in the budget submitted to Congress.
206. Read Opens in new tab
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The section authorizes certain corporations and agencies under the Department of Housing and Urban Development to spend and commit funds according to their budgets for 2025, within their available financial limits. However, they can only use their collections for new loans or mortgage commitments if it's specifically allowed by the Act, with exceptions for mortgage insurance or guaranty operations and protecting U.S. financial interests.
207. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary is required to provide quarterly reports to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees detailing any funds that are uncommitted, unobligated, recaptured, or excess in each program and activity under the Department's control, and must also provide updated budget information to these Committees if requested.
208. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the money provided in this part of the bill can be used for an audit of the Government National Mortgage Association if the audit does not comply with the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990.
209. Phased transfers Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development can transfer financial assistance and certain obligations from one multifamily housing project to another if specific conditions are met, such as maintaining the number and size of low-income housing units, ensuring new projects meet quality standards, and consulting with tenants. This measure aims to help upgrade or rebuild housing projects that are not feasible to maintain, ensuring tenant interests are protected throughout the process.
Money References
- (b) Phased transfers.—Transfers of project-based assistance under this section may be done in phases to accommodate the financing and other requirements related to rehabilitating or constructing the project or projects to which the assistance is transferred, to ensure that such project or projects meet the standards under subsection (c). (c) The transfer authorized in subsection (a) is subject to the following conditions: (1) NUMBER AND BEDROOM SIZE OF UNITS.— (A) For occupied units in the transferring project: The number of low-income and very low-income units and the configuration (i.e., bedroom size) provided by the transferring project shall be no less than when transferred to the receiving project or projects and the net dollar amount of Federal assistance provided to the transferring project shall remain the same in the receiving project or projects.
210. Read Opens in new tab
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The section outlines that certain students aren't eligible for housing assistance under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937. Those who don't qualify include students under 24 years old who are not veterans, aren't married, don't have children, aren't disabled, didn't receive assistance before November 30, 2005, didn't leave foster care at age 14 or older, and don't have eligible parents.
211. Read Opens in new tab
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The funds intended for Native Alaskans in the "Native American Programs" section of this Act are reserved for the same groups that received money in 2005. Only these groups can apply for additional funds outlined in the current section.
212. Read Opens in new tab
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In fiscal year 2025, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development must maintain rental assistance for multifamily properties, even during foreclosures. If it is not feasible to continue assistance, alternative housing options may be provided after consulting with tenants and local authorities. The Secretary should ensure contracts are upheld before foreclosure and use measures like relocation if there are serious health or safety threats. After the property's sale, rent agreements must comply with specific guidelines.
213. Read Opens in new tab
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Public housing agencies with 400 or fewer units can choose not to follow asset management rules set by the Secretary, except if they are trying to stop a cut in subsidy under the operating fund formula.
214. Read Opens in new tab
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The section prohibits the Secretary from imposing any rules that limit how public housing agencies can use capital funds for office costs, as allowed by a specific law from 1937. However, public housing agencies are not allowed to use these capital funds for operations-related activities beyond certain limits defined by the same law.
215. Read Opens in new tab
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In this section, it states that no person at the Department of Housing and Urban Development can manage funds unless the Chief Financial Officer's office confirms they have a good system for monitoring funds and have been properly trained. The Chief Financial Officer must also ensure a trained fund manager is in place for each specified program within the department.
216. Read Opens in new tab
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For fiscal year 2025, the Secretary is allowed to post announcements for funding opportunities and decisions for programs under their control only online or through electronic media, as they see fit.
217. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that any attorney fees that arise from litigation related to a specific program will be paid using funds from that particular program's office and the Office of General Counsel's budget for salaries and expenses.
218. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary is allowed to move up to 10% or $5,000,000, whichever is smaller, between different offices funded under "Administrative Support Offices" or "Program Offices." However, these limits cannot be exceeded without permission from specific Congressional committees, and the Secretary must notify these committees 3 business days before making such transfers.
Money References
- The Secretary is authorized to transfer up to 10 percent or $5,000,000, whichever is less, of funds appropriated for any office under the headings “Administrative Support Offices” or “Program Offices” to any other such office under such headings:
- Provided, That no appropriation for any such office under such headings shall be increased or decreased by more than 10 percent or $5,000,000, whichever is less, without prior written approval of the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations: Provided further, That the Secretary shall provide notification to such Committees 3 business days in advance of any such transfers under this section up to 10 percent or $5,000,000, whichever is less.
219. Read Opens in new tab
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Entities receiving housing assistance must keep their properties in good, safe, and clean condition, following both federal and local laws. If a housing project fails to meet these standards or doesn't quickly fix urgent health and safety issues, the Secretary will take appropriate actions.
220. Read Opens in new tab
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The funds from this Act or any other Act cannot be used by public housing agencies to pay their chief executive officer or any other staff more than the salary cap set for level IV of the Executive Schedule during the fiscal year 2025.
221. Read Opens in new tab
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Before the Department of Housing and Urban Development can announce any grant award, they must notify both the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations at least three full business days in advance. This notification should include a list of each grant award along with a project description sorted by State and congressional district.
222. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds from this Act can be used by the Federal Housing Administration or related agencies to back mortgages if those mortgages have been taken over by the government through eminent domain.
223. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds provided by this Act can be used to change the status of a local government's area from being considered a metropolitan city when it comes to receiving certain grants outlined in the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974.
224. Read Opens in new tab
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Congress allows funds given to the Office of Policy Development and Research of the Department of Housing and Urban Development for research or evaluation that are not used by the end of a contract or grant to be quickly redirected for similar purposes in the current or next fiscal year, as long as they comply with certain rules.
225. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds from this Act or any other may be used to give awards to employees of the Department of Housing and Urban Development who are undergoing administrative discipline within the fiscal year. However, this rule only applies after the discipline becomes effective and before any final decision that cancels the discipline.
226. Read Opens in new tab
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Grant recipients in the continuum of care program for homeless assistance can use money they earn through the program to meet matching requirements if the expenses are eligible and enhance their program, according to rules for funding from 2015 to 2025 under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
227. Read Opens in new tab
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The section allows the Secretary to give 1-year transition grants from funds meant for "Homeless Assistance Grants" to help organizations switch from one type of care program to another under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. To get these grants, the organizations need approval from their care group and must meet standards set by the Secretary.
228. Read Opens in new tab
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The rules for "promise zone" areas, which were set up by the Secretary in past years, will continue to be valid and follow the original terms and conditions agreed on.
229. Read Opens in new tab
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Public housing agencies designated as Moving to Work agencies can use funds allocated under section 8 or 9 of the United States Housing Act of 1937, including reserve funds, for different purposes than originally intended, except for special purpose funding like special vouchers.
230. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that funds from this Act cannot be used to prevent public housing agencies under federal supervision from applying for or using grants to deal with lead-based paint hazards. These funds can also be utilized to comply with legal agreements related to lead safety violations.
231. Read Opens in new tab
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For fiscal year 2025, if it is found that a recipient got more funds than they should have from certain housing allocations, the Secretary can correct this by reducing that recipient's future allocation and redistributing the extra funds to those who missed out before. If reducing funds would severely impact a recipient's grant purpose, the adjustment might be spread across multiple future allocations.
232. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary has the authority to transfer up to $5,000,000 from salaries and expenses to the Information Technology Fund for IT needs, but this transfer cannot be used for projects exceeding $500,000 in future development costs. The Secretary must notify the House and Senate Appropriations Committees at least three business days before making such a transfer.
Money References
- Provided, That the total amount of such transfers shall not exceed $5,000,000:
- Provided further, That this transfer authority shall not be used to fund information technology projects or activities that have known out-year development, modernization, or enhancement costs in excess of $500,000:
233. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary must follow all necessary procedures, including giving public notice and allowing comments, before making any changes to an annual contributions contract.
234. Read Opens in new tab
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The section allows the Secretary to use funds for managing Section 8 housing programs through cooperative agreements rather than traditional contracts. Such agreements will prioritize organizations with experience in managing housing issues, and if no qualified applicants come forward, the Secretary can follow standard procurement rules to find help.
235. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds from this Act can be used to take into account family self-sufficiency performance measurements or scores when deciding funding for programs that employ family self-sufficiency program coordinators.
236. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary has the power to make exceptions or set different rules for managing voucher assistance programs, like those helping families and young people leaving foster care. However, these changes will not affect rules about tenant rights, rent setting, fair housing, and other important protections.
237. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
For fiscal year 2025, any rent incentives from the jobs-plus initiative won't reduce the competitive grant funds, and losses in tenant rent increases will be covered in the public housing agency's budget. Additionally, if rent incentives are applied for projects switching to project-based rental assistance, these costs will be covered through specific housing assistance payments and renewed under tenant-based rental assistance.
238. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that funds allocated to the Office of Housing can be used to form agreements with administrative entities chosen under specific legislation, without any extra competition. These agreements will support property owners and others with activities like due diligence and technical assistance related to the Rental Assistance Demonstration program.
239. Read Opens in new tab
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The section explains that funds set aside in 2012 and 2013 to help people with disabilities find housing will remain available until 2030 and 2031, respectively, to settle any valid expenses from those years.
240. Authority Read Opens in new tab
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The text outlines a program for the fiscal years 2025 and 2026 in which the Secretary may offer loans, including forgivable ones, to owners of multifamily properties needing physical improvements to avoid becoming obsolete or financially unfeasible. Eligible property owners must meet specific criteria, use the loans for necessary repairs to restore economic viability, and agree to an extended affordability period of 30 years for affordable housing.
241. Read Opens in new tab
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The section outlines exceptions to civil rights laws for certain homeless assistance projects involving Indian Tribes and Tribally designated housing entities, allowing these groups to apply for and administer housing assistance programs on reservation or trust lands. It also requires these entities to follow approved housing plans and simplifies application requirements for projects exclusively on reservation and trust lands.
242. Authority Read Opens in new tab
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The amendment to the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 allows the Secretary to guarantee up to 100% of loans for housing for Indian families, authorities, and Tribes on both trust and fee simple lands, and extends these homeownership opportunities to Native Hawaiian families eligible under the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. It specifies that loans can be used for building, buying, refinancing, or fixing standard housing that accommodates 1 to 4 families.
243. Terms Read Opens in new tab
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The amendments to the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 allow for home loans to be extended up to 40 years under certain conditions, specifically if a loan modification is determined by the Secretary, extending the previous maximum term of 30 years.
244. Special activities by indian tribes Read Opens in new tab
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Section 244 amends the Housing and Community Development Act to allow Indian Tribes receiving specific grants to directly carry out certain special activities.
245. Read Opens in new tab
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The whistleblower protections outlined in section 4712 of title 41 of the United States Code are extended to cover any kind of contract or agreement funded by current or past legislation, no matter when the contract was signed.
401. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds from this Act can be used to plan or pay for any program that would cover the costs for non-government parties involved in regulatory cases or decision-making processes supported by this Act.
402. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the money allocated by this Act can be used after the current fiscal year ends, and it cannot be moved to cover other expenses unless specifically allowed by the Act.
403. Read Opens in new tab
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Under this section, funds spent on consulting services through contracts must be publicly accessible and available for public review, unless exceptions are allowed by existing laws or executive orders.
404. Read Opens in new tab
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The section prohibits the use of funds from the Act for employee training that doesn't meet specific needs related to job performance, causes emotional stress, lacks prior notification, involves religious content, or tries to change personal values or lifestyles. However, it allows training focused directly on job performance.
405. Read Opens in new tab
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This section restricts the use of funds by agencies, unless Congress approves certain changes like creating or eliminating programs, altering funding amounts, or restructuring organizations. It also requires agencies to report financial plans to Congress to establish the rules for making such changes in the current year.
Money References
- Except as otherwise provided in this Act, none of the funds provided in this Act, provided by previous appropriations Acts to the agencies or entities funded in this Act that remain available for obligation or expenditure in fiscal year 2025, or provided from any accounts in the Treasury derived by the collection of fees and available to the agencies funded by this Act, shall be available for obligation or expenditure through a reprogramming of funds that— (1) creates a new program; (2) eliminates a program, project, or activity; (3) increases funds or personnel for any program, project, or activity for which funds have been denied or restricted by the Congress; (4) proposes to use funds directed for a specific activity by either the House or Senate Committees on Appropriations for a different purpose; (5) augments existing programs, projects, or activities in excess of $5,000,000 or 10 percent, whichever is less; (6) reduces existing programs, projects, or activities by $5,000,000 or 10 percent, whichever is less; or (7) creates, reorganizes, or restructures a branch, division, office, bureau, board, commission, agency, administration, or department different from the budget justifications submitted to the Committees on Appropriations or the report accompanying this Act, whichever is more detailed, unless prior approval is received from the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations:Provided, That not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, each agency funded by this Act shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations of the Senate and of the House of Representatives to establish the baseline for application of reprogramming and transfer authorities for the current fiscal year:
- Provided further, That the report shall include— (A) a table for each appropriation with a separate column to display the prior year enacted level, the President's budget request, adjustments made by Congress, adjustments due to enacted rescissions, if appropriate, and the fiscal year enacted level; (B) a delineation in the table for each appropriation and its respective prior year enacted level by object class and program, project, and activity as detailed in this Act, the table in the report accompanying this Act, accompanying reports of the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations, or in the budget appendix for the respective appropriations, whichever is more detailed, and shall apply to all items for which a dollar amount is specified and to all programs for which new budget (obligational) authority is provided, as well as to discretionary grants and discretionary grant allocations; and (C) an identification of items of special congressional interest. ---
406. Read Opens in new tab
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In Section 406 of the bill, it states that up to 50% of unused funds from the 2025 fiscal year, specifically for salaries and expenses, can still be used until September 30, 2026. However, before spending these funds, approval must be sought from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, following certain guidelines outlined in another section of the Act.
407. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds from this Act cannot be used for projects that apply eminent domain unless it's for public use, which excludes projects primarily benefiting private businesses. Projects related to transportation, utilities, public infrastructure, or urgent public health and safety issues are considered public use.
408. Read Opens in new tab
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In Section 408, it states that no money allocated by this law can be moved to another part of the U.S. Government unless the transfer is allowed by this or another funding law.
409. Read Opens in new tab
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Entities receiving funds from this Act are required to comply with sections 2 through 4 of the Buy American Act of 1933 when using the assistance provided.
410. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that no money allocated by this Act can be given to any person or organization that has been found guilty of violating the Buy American Act.
411. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that none of the money provided by this Act can be used to pay for first-class airline tickets if it goes against specific rules found in sections 301–10.122 and 301–10.123 of title 41 in the Code of Federal Regulations.
412. Read Opens in new tab
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In Section 412, the bill states that no more than 50 employees from any single U.S. government agency or department can attend an international conference unless the relevant Secretary reports to Congress at least 5 days ahead, asserting that this attendance is important to national interests; an "international conference" is defined as one that occurs outside the U.S. and involves representatives from the U.S. government, foreign governments, or international or nongovernmental organizations.
413. Read Opens in new tab
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Under Section 413, the law ensures that the funds provided cannot be used by the Surface Transportation Board to charge or collect filing fees for complaints about rates or practices that are higher than the fees allowed in district court civil cases.
414. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds from this Act cannot be used for computer networks that allow access to pornography, but there is an exception for law enforcement and related activities.
415. Read Opens in new tab
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The section mandates that departments or agencies must allow their Inspector General quick access to all necessary records and materials unless a specific law restricts it. If an Inspector General can't get this access, they must report it to the appropriations committees within five days.
416. Read Opens in new tab
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Funds from this Act cannot be used to pay bonuses to contractors with poor performance unless the issues were due to unforeseen events, government changes, or are minor and align with specific federal regulations.
417. Read Opens in new tab
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This section states that government funds cannot be used to pay the salary of someone hired to fill a position left by an employee who joined the U.S. Armed Forces if that employee applies to return within 90 days after completing their service and the Office of Personnel Management confirms they are still qualified for the job, but they are not given their old job back.
418. Read Opens in new tab
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The section states that no funds from this Act can be used to approve new foreign air carrier permits if doing so would conflict with U.S. law or the existing U.S.-E.U.-Iceland-Norway Air Transport Agreement. However, it allows the Secretary of Transportation to grant permission if it aligns with both the agreement and U.S. law.
419. Read Opens in new tab
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The section makes amendments to projects listed in previous federal funding acts. It changes names and designated recipients for two projects in a 2022 act, and updates the descriptions and recipients for two other projects in a 2023 act.
420. Read Opens in new tab
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In this section, certain funds initially designated for the "Midway Crossing" rail project are being redirected to be used for "Transit Infrastructure Grants" as part of the Department of Transportation's budget. Additionally, the project name "Cle Elum—First Street Downtown Revitalization" is being altered by removing "First Street" from its title in the referenced appropriation documents.
421. Read Opens in new tab
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None of the funds from this Act can be used by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to force a grantee to change zoning laws to comply with the rules and notices related to promoting fair housing.
422. Read Opens in new tab
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Each amount marked as an emergency requirement by Congress in this Act can only be used if the President also agrees to this designation and informs Congress about it.