Number: RL34002
Title: Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Issues and Reform Proposals in the 110th Congress
Authors: Maggie McCarty, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: On July 12, 2007, the House approved the Section 8 Voucher Reform Act of 2007 (H.R. 1851), which would make modifications to several features of the Section 8 voucher program, including how income is calculated, how inspections are conducted, and how portability is treated, and it would adopt a new funding formula. It would also rename, expand, and modify the MTW demonstration; require HUD to provide additional resources for implementation of Limited English Proficiency requirements; and permit PHAs to implement alternate rent structures, within limits. On March 3, 2008, the Section 8 Voucher Reform Act of 2008 (S. 2684) was introduced in the Senate. Most of the provisions of the Senate bill are similar to those in H.R. 1851, although there are some differences. S. 2684 does not include the MTW-related provisions or alternative rent structure provisions that are included in the House bill; S. 2684 does include provisions related to promoting coordination with the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and treatment of utility payments that are not included in the House bill. The Senate bill also includes different deductions from income than the House bill.
Pages: 57
Date: April 11, 2008