This bill establishes the Home Weatherization Clearinghouse within the Department of Environment and Energy in Nebraska, addressing the ongoing crisis of affordable quality housing in the state. The Legislature recognizes the need to improve housing inventory and quality, which are essential for population attraction, workforce development, and economic self-sufficiency. The clearinghouse will serve as a primary contact point for individuals seeking grants, loans, or other funding for home weatherization projects, and will coordinate efforts among various state and local agencies to maximize federal funding for these initiatives.

The clearinghouse will prioritize funding for whole-home rehabilitation projects, ensuring that grants aimed at such projects receive maximum priority under applicable grant programs. Additionally, the bill stipulates that administrative costs for entities managing these grant programs should not exceed ten percent of program costs unless specifically required by the relevant grant guidelines. This legislative effort aims to streamline access to resources for improving housing conditions in Nebraska, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for its residents.