Ensuring Continued Access to Funding for Colonias Act
Summary
H.R. 4498, the "Ensuring Continued Access to Funding for Colonias Act," aims to amend the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act. The amendment specifically targets the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Colonia Set-Aside Program. It seeks to update the eligibility requirements by increasing the metropolitan statistical area population limit from 1,000,000 to 2,000,000.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to expand the eligibility for the CDBG Colonia Set-Aside Program to include colonias located in larger metropolitan areas. This change could potentially increase the amount of funding available to these communities. It could also lead to infrastructure improvements and better living conditions for residents in eligible colonias.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding availability for colonias.
- Expanded eligibility to colonias in larger metropolitan areas.
- Potential for infrastructure improvements.
- Improved living conditions for residents.
- Support for affordable housing initiatives.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on existing CDBG resources.
- Possible reduced funding for colonias in smaller metropolitan areas.
- Increased competition for funding among eligible communities.
- Risk of funds being mismanaged or inefficiently allocated.
- Limited impact if the root causes of poverty and lack of infrastructure are not addressed.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Specifically, the bill aims to "promote the general Welfare" by improving living conditions in underserved communities. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States, which could be interpreted to include funding programs like the CDBG Colonia Set-Aside Program.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).