WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1650

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - DIVISION OF CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION ADULT DIPLOMA PROGRAM APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2025-2026 FISCAL YEAR.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Ray

House Bill 1650 establishes a grant program to help local governments improve housing for low- to moderate-income households, funding up to $50,000 per unit for repairs.

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1650

Summary of House Bill 1650: Pennsylvania Home Preservation Grant Program

Bill Number: HB 1650
Introduced On: June 20, 2025
Status: Referred to Urban Affairs & Housing
Prime Sponsor: Lindsay Powell

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1650 aims to establish the Pennsylvania Home Preservation Grant Program under the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). The primary goal of this program is to provide financial assistance to local governments for the improvement and rehabilitation of existing housing stock, thereby enhancing the quality of housing in Pennsylvania.

Key Provisions

  • Grant Eligibility:

    • Local governments or combinations of local governments can apply for grants.
    • Counties must have utilized at least 75% of their allocated funds from the Whole-Home Repairs Program to qualify for this program.

  • Funding and Expenditures:

    • Grants will be used to restore or rehabilitate housing units, with a maximum expenditure of $50,000 per unit.
    • Funds can address:
    • Habitability concerns
    • Energy or water efficiency improvements
    • Accessibility modifications for individuals with disabilities
    • Grants are targeted at unit owners whose household income is between 80% to 120% of the area median income.

  • Administrative Costs:

    • Up to 10% of the grant award may be allocated for administrative expenses, including personnel costs.

  • Application Requirements:

    • Applications must be posted on the DCED website and include:
    • Geographic boundaries of the proposed program
    • Detailed descriptions of fund utilization
    • Evidence of recent experience in administering similar programs
    • Information on additional funding sources, if applicable

  • Application Review:

    • DCED will review and approve applications based on a schedule determined by the department.
    • Priority will be given to applications that demonstrate:
    • Secured non-state funding sources
    • Coordination with existing home repair programs

Impact

The Pennsylvania Home Preservation Grant Program is expected to have a significant impact on local housing conditions by providing necessary funds for repairs and improvements. It aims to assist low- to moderate-income households, thereby promoting housing stability and community development.

Fiscal Considerations

  • The fiscal impact of the program is currently indeterminate, as grants will be funded through appropriations made by the General Assembly.
  • DCED is authorized to use up to 3% of the total appropriated funds for program administration.

Timeline

  • The act is set to take effect 30 days after its passage.

Conclusion

House Bill 1650 represents a proactive approach to improving housing quality in Pennsylvania by empowering local governments with the necessary resources to address housing rehabilitation needs. The program is designed to prioritize low- to moderate-income households, ensuring that the benefits of the funding reach those who need it most.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.