The proposed bill updates current statutes by extending the existence of the Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) until July 1, 2026, with a repeal set for January 1, 2027. It mandates a special audit by the Auditor General to evaluate spending on homelessness programs over the past five years and introduces new requirements for ADOH, such as a comprehensive performance measurement system, biennial evaluations of housing programs, and secure wire transfer protocols to reduce fraud risks. Additionally, it prohibits the use of Housing Trust Fund monies for down payment assistance programs unless legally authorized and expands reporting requirements related to homelessness prevention efforts.

The bill also amends section 41-1954 to require annual reports estimating homeless populations for municipalities and counties, replaces "funds" with "monies," repeals section 41-3025.06, and establishes a new section 41-3026.14. It introduces quarterly reporting on housing trust fund expenditures and appropriates $1,650,000 from the housing trust fund for the special audit, ensuring the funds remain unencumbered until August 31, 2027. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability and oversight of housing programs while ensuring the continued operation of ADOH.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-3025.06, 41-3026.14
House Engrossed Version: 41-1954, 41-3025.06, 41-3026.14, 41-3953, 41-3955, 41-3958, 41-1953, 100-485, 91-517, 41-1956, 41-1981, 35-146, 35-147, 104-193, 36-2903.01, 36-2904, 25-814, 42-2003, 25-520, 35-726, 35-728, 41-4010, 41-3957, 36-1404, 44-313, 35-751, 35-313, 35-190