On August 8, the Senate passed a bipartisan continuing resolution (CR) extending funding for federal programs and services through December 11. The legislation also delays implementation of new Office of Management and Budget (OMB) grant making requirements introduced earlier this year.
Some of the most controversial provisions would direct federal agencies to terminate certain existing contracts and permit them to add or modify conditions during a grant’s period of performance. Critics argue that these changes would introduce the risk of abrupt program modifications into an already uncertain funding environment—one in which stability is essential.
The bill also includes additional funding and policy provisions, known as “anomalies,” to address specific needs during the extension period. Through these provisions, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) received additional funding, and the availability of certain housing assistance grant programs was expanded to help address funding gaps.
With the extension now approved, Congress has additional time to consider these policies in greater detail. It is more important than ever for affordable housing developers to communicate with their representatives about how the proposed OMB changes could affect their work—particularly while members of Congress are on recess through August 31.
To send a pre-drafted letter to your representative and senators, click here.