§776 Individuals and Households Pilot Program

Summary

The President, through the Administrator and working with state, local, and tribal governments, must run a pilot program to use existing rental housing in areas with a major disaster declaration. The goal is to give quick, cheaper temporary housing to people who qualify for help under 42 U.S.C. 5174 when other housing is harder to find or costs more. Under the program, the Administrator may lease multi‑family rental units, make needed improvements, and limit repairs to what is required to meet Federal housing quality standards. Money spent on improvements must be deducted from the lease value and cannot be more than the lease value. The Administrator may consult with state, local, and tribal governments and must send a report to the appropriate congressional committees by March 31, 2009 about effectiveness, cost savings, findings, needed authorities, and any recommendation to continue or make the program permanent. No pilot projects may be approved after December 31, 2008.