The Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024, or H.R. 4820, is a bill proposed to allocate funds for transportation and housing programs in the United States. It aims to manage spending on infrastructure and housing while introducing policy changes that have sparked debate.
What This Bill Does
H.R. 4820 is designed to provide funding for the fiscal year 2024 to various transportation and housing-related agencies. It covers the Department of Transportation, which includes agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). It also funds the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), supporting programs like public housing and rental assistance.
The bill proposes a total budget of around $90 billion, similar to the previous year, but reallocates funds among different programs. For example, it increases funding for highway and aviation projects while reducing allocations for some housing and rail programs. This means that while some areas may see more investment, others might face budget cuts.
Additionally, the bill includes policy riders, which are rules that dictate how funds can be used. These riders limit spending on diversity and climate initiatives, which has led to disagreements among lawmakers. The bill also sets limits on how funds can be transferred between accounts, aiming to ensure transparency and control over spending.
Why It Matters
This bill has significant implications for various groups across the country. For low-income families relying on housing assistance, changes in funding could affect their access to affordable housing. People living in public housing or using rental vouchers might experience changes in the availability or quality of these services.
The bill also impacts transportation infrastructure, which affects everyone who uses roads, airports, and public transit. By prioritizing certain projects, the bill aims to improve safety and efficiency in transportation. However, cuts to rail and transit funding could lead to increased congestion and reduced service quality in urban areas.
Key Facts
- The bill proposes approximately $90 billion in discretionary budget authority for FY2024.
- Funds cover the fiscal year from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.
- It affects millions of Americans, including low-income renters, transit riders, and drivers.
- The bill was reported from the House Appropriations Committee on July 24, 2023.
- The Biden Administration has issued a veto threat against the bill in its current form.
- The bill did not become law, as Congress opted for separate appropriations or resolutions.
- Policy riders limit funding for diversity, equity, and climate initiatives, sparking debate.
Arguments in Support
- Supporters argue the bill keeps spending in line with fiscal responsibility goals, helping to control the national deficit.
- It focuses on core infrastructure needs, ensuring that essential transportation safety programs are adequately funded.
- The bill includes funding for local transportation projects, which can address specific community needs and boost local economies.
- It continues to support key housing programs, albeit with a more constrained budget, maintaining a safety net for those in need.
- The policy riders are seen as a way to prevent federal funds from being used for initiatives considered outside core agency missions.
Arguments in Opposition
- Critics say the bill cuts essential housing assistance, potentially increasing homelessness and housing insecurity.
- Reductions in funding for rail and transit projects could worsen urban congestion and undermine climate goals.
- Policy riders are viewed as harmful to civil rights, potentially rolling back protections for marginalized groups.
- Opponents argue that constrained funding for safety programs could compromise transportation safety and service quality.
- The bill is criticized for undermining the implementation of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.