Summary of HR 4552: Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026
Purpose and Intent
HR 4552 aims to allocate funding for the Departments of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development, along with related agencies, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026. The bill is designed to ensure that these departments have the necessary financial resources to operate effectively, maintain infrastructure, and support housing initiatives.
Key Provisions
The bill includes several important provisions:
Funding Allocations:
- The bill appropriates specific sums for various programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) under the Departments of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development.
- Each PPA will have a defined dollar amount, which will guide budgetary decisions and allocations.
Reprogramming Guidelines:
- Section 405 establishes rules for how agencies can reprogram funds. This includes requirements for notification and approval from the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations for significant changes, such as:
- Creating new programs
- Eliminating existing PPAs
- Increasing or decreasing funding for PPAs by specified thresholds (e.g., $5 million or 10%).
- Agencies must submit an operating plan within 60 days of the bill's enactment, detailing how they will allocate the appropriated funds.
Reporting Requirements:
- Agencies are required to provide detailed reports on their spending and any changes to their programs, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of federal funds.
Affected Entities
The bill primarily affects:
- Federal Agencies: The Departments of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development will receive funding to support their operations and initiatives.
- State and Local Governments: These entities may receive federal funds for transportation projects and housing programs, impacting local infrastructure and community development.
- Public and Private Stakeholders: Organizations involved in transportation and housing sectors will be influenced by the funding levels and program changes outlined in the bill.
Legislative Timeline
- Introduced: July 21, 2025
- Reported: The House Committee on Appropriations reported the bill on the same day, with the report designated as H. Rept. 119-212.
- Calendar Placement: The bill was placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 172, indicating its readiness for consideration by the full House.
Conclusion
HR 4552 is a critical piece of legislation that outlines the funding and operational guidelines for key federal agencies involved in transportation and housing. By establishing clear appropriations and reprogramming rules, the bill aims to enhance the effectiveness of federal investments in infrastructure and urban development for the fiscal year 2026.