SRC-JRN S.B. 842 75(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 842
By: Truan
International Relations, Trade & Technology
3-12-97
As Filed


DIGEST 

Currently, the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs is
required to assess certain eligibility standards for public housing and to
make a determination of alternatives for increasing affordable housing in
the border region.  However, it is still unclear what standards should be
modified to provide for the more efficient allocation of federal funds for
housing projects throughout the state.  This bill requires the department
to assess eligibility standards for public housing programs and to report
the results to certain persons. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 842 requires the Texas Department of Housing and
Community Affairs to assess eligibility standards for public housing
programs and to report the results to certain persons. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. STUDY.  Requires the Texas Department of Housing and Community
Affairs (department) to assess the department's eligibility standards for
public housing programs to determine whether the standards should be
modified to provide for more efficient spending of federal money on
housing projects statewide, and to research alternative options and
funding sources for providing affordable housing to individuals and
families of low income in the border region. 

SECTION 2. REPORT.  Requires the department to prepare and deliver a
report to certain persons concerning the outcome of the department's
efforts under SECTION 1 of this Act, by January 15, 1999.  Authorizes the
department to include the report required by this Act in the annual report
required by Section 2306.072, Government Code. 

SECTION 3. DEFINITION.  Defines "border region."

SECTION 4. Emergency clause.
  Effective date: upon passage.