Substitute House Bill No. 6890 seeks to amend the existing rental assistance program by updating definitions and eligibility criteria for participants. Notable insertions include the terms "certificate holder," referring to individuals or families with rental assistance certificates, and "low-income family," defined as those earning no more than fifty percent of the median family income for their area. The bill designates the Commissioner of Housing as the program administrator, ensuring that assistance is provided to low-income families in privately-owned rental housing that meets health and safety standards. Additionally, the bill outlines a process for certificate holders to find suitable housing within a maximum of one year, with a possible extension of 180 days for good cause, and mandates timely inspections of housing units. The bill also introduces significant changes to the Department of Housing's Rental Assistance Program (RAP), including a maximum timeframe of five business days for initial inspections and three business days for subsequent inspections, which will require hiring additional inspectors at an estimated annual cost of $250,000 starting in FY 26. The timeframe for participants to secure housing is extended from 90 days to one year, with a possible 180-day extension. Furthermore, the bill authorizes the Department of Housing to adopt regulations for electronic signatures and document submissions, while removing the requirement for DOH to promote housing choice and encourage racial and economic integration. These adjustments aim to streamline the RAP process, enhance accessibility for low-income families, and are set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 8-345
HSG Joint Favorable Substitute: 8-345
File No. 263: 8-345