Subtitle A - Purposes of Study

• To explore whether current HUD oversight system is insufficient or ineffective in accurately assessing HA performance. Other federally-assisted housing providers are also covered by the provision.
• Evaluate whether oversight activities should be eliminated, modified, or transferred to other entities.
• The study is to be conducted by the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) or “other public or nonprofit entities.” $500,000 authorized for the study.

• The study should look at the current system, the Public Housing Management Assessment Program (PHMAP), and various accreditation models in other industries and professions to determine their applicability to public housing and other housing providers.

  — If the accreditation models are applicable, the study shall then identify appropriate goals, objectives, and procedures for an accreditation program.

  — The study shall further evaluate the effectiveness of establishing an independent accreditation and evaluation entity to assist, supplement, or replace HUD’s oversight role. Study will also look at the costs of establishing accreditation, the appropriate roles of HUD, the Inspector General (IG), the Independent Public Auditor (IPA), local entities, etc.

• The study will also explore whether performance based models, state and local and/or resident review models, private contractor models or any other models might be applicable.

  Interim Report — Must be done six months after enactment. The interim report will describe the actions needed to carry out the study, and any findings that may be available at that time.

  Final Report— is due within one year. However, report must be submitted to industry groups and HUD first.

Housing Evaluation and Accreditation Board is automatically established as an independent federal entity within the executive branch. The board will consist of twelve members appointed by the President.

• four to be selected out of ten recommendations by HUD;
• eight to be selected out of twenty recommendations by Chairs and Ranking members of House, Senate Banking Committees;
• Must be at least two residents; at least two, but not more than four HA directors; one member of IREM; one multifamily owner. Not more than six members may be of the same political party. Term of office varies from one to four years. The Board selects the chair.

  — The Board shall appoint an E.D. And “such personnel as the Board considers necessary.”

• Board cannot act unless Congress repeals section prohibiting it from beginning work. Assuming Congress acts, within 12 months of board appointment (or another date as included in more recent law), the Board shall establish standards and guidelines to be used in measuring HA performance. The standards and guidelines shall be designed to replace PHMAP. In establishing the standards, the Board shall consult with HUD, the IG, and other “appropriate” persons.
• The Board will further establish procedures for accrediting HAs and actually begin the oversight function. The Board will receive assistance from any department within the federal government, including HUD and GSA. The Board can enter into contracts with private firms, institutions, and individuals.
• The Board may establish fees for HA accreditation, which shall be used for business expenses. PHMAP will remain in place until accreditation becomes effective.