HUD Plans to Issue Proposed Streamlined Voucher Rule to Improve Cost Effectiveness, Program Flexibility

摘要

HUD plans to publish a proposed regulation to streamline the Section 8 voucher program to lift some of the regulatory burden from housing authorities and improve cost effectiveness, according to Paula O. Blunt, HUD general deputy assistant secretary for public and Indian housing. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is currently reviewing the rule. Blunt discussed the regulation, along with other program issues, at the Quadel Consulting Section 8 voucher conference on October 16. "The challenge is to strengthen and reform the program so it will continue to serve low-income families in the future," said Blunt. Congress hasn't passed HUD's proposed legislative reforms so the alternative is to provide some regulatory relief for housing agencies that often are hard-pressed to meet local housing needs with unpredictable funding levels each year, she said.