Disaster Relief Transparency Act

The Disaster Relief Transparency Act would require the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to explain how it decides who gets federal disaster recovery and mitigation housing funds. HUD must report the method it uses to split Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery and Mitigation money among states, tribes, territories, and local governments, why those amounts can differ from one funding round to another, and how to make the process faster and more consistent. HUD must consult with the Government Accountability Office while preparing these reports.

The first report would be due within 90 days after the law takes effect and must look at the funds for fiscal years 2024 and 2025. After that, starting in 2026, HUD would have to submit a report every year by the end of the fiscal year.

Key points

• Who is affected: HUD; states, tribes, territories, and local governments that receive CDBG disaster and mitigation funds; and the public through increased transparency.
• What changes: Regular, GAO-informed reports explaining HUD’s funding method, reasons for differences in awards, and recommendations to improve speed and consistency.
• When: First report due within 90 days of enactment, covering FY 2024–2025; annual reports each year starting in FY 2026.