This bill creates a HUD grant program for eligible local entities to develop "pre-reviewed designs" (also called pattern books) for mixed-income, low- or mid-rise housing with up to 25 dwelling units. Eligible entities include units of general local government, municipal membership organizations, and Indian tribes. Covered structures can include accessory dwelling units, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, townhouses, cottage courts, courtyard buildings, multiplexes, and other small multi-unit structures the Secretary approves.
Grants fund the development and local pre-review of designs so those plans meet local building and zoning standards. The HUD Secretary reviews applications and may consider local need for affordable housing, presence of high opportunity areas, coordination with state agencies and transportation planners, and steps taken to reduce land use or permitting barriers. At least 10 percent of annual grant funds must go to rural areas. Grant recipients must report on impacts, designs produced, permits issued, and housing units constructed using the designs. HUD may require repayment if submitted designs are not approved within 5 years. The bill authorizes $15,000,000 per year for fiscal years 2027–2031, and HUD may reserve up to 10 percent each year for technical assistance.
The bill's findings state that the United States has a large housing shortage and many households are cost-burdened. It says complex land use rules and permitting slow housing production. Supporters argue that pre-reviewed designs can speed permitting, make development more predictable for builders, balance local design features with faster construction, and help produce more affordable mixed-income housing.
No publicly available information.