Overview
Title
60-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: Housing Trust Fund OMB Control No.: 2506-0215
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The government is asking people to share their thoughts on a plan to collect information about a fund that helps with housing, to make sure the money is used correctly and efficiently. They want ideas on how to gather this information in a way that is easy and doesn't take too much time from those who participate.
Summary AI
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is requesting public comments on the proposed information collection concerning the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) as part of the Paperwork Reduction Act process. HUD seeks approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for extending an information collection that includes tracking the use and compliance of HTF funds. This notice allows for a 60-day period for public comment to refine how information is gathered and ensure it meets the necessary agency functions while minimizing response burdens. Public input is encouraged, especially regarding the collection's necessity, accuracy, and potential improvements in data quality and burden reduction.
Abstract
HUD is seeking approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for the information collection described below. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act, HUD is requesting comment from all interested parties on the proposed collection of information. The purpose of this notice is to allow for 60 days of public comment.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document presented is a notice from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), published in the Federal Register, requesting public comments on a proposed information collection concerning the Housing Trust Fund (HTF). This proposal is part of the procedure outlined by the Paperwork Reduction Act. HUD seeks to extend its ability to gather and track information concerning how HTF funds are used and ensuring compliance with relevant requirements. The document establishes a 60-day period during which the public can provide comments to help refine this information gathering process.
General Summary
The notice represents HUD's steps to obtain approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for extending an existing information collection process related to HTF funds. This collection involves tracking the commitment and disbursement of program funds through the Integrated Disbursement and Information System (IDIS) to ensure compliance with legal requirements. The aim is to leverage public input to optimize the usefulness, clarity, and accuracy of the collected data, as well as minimize the burden on respondents providing this information.
Significant Issues and Concerns
Several concerns arise from the document. Firstly, it does not provide specific estimates regarding the number of respondents, frequency of response, average duration, or total estimated burden of the information collection. This lack of detail makes it challenging to understand the potential impact and scope of the collection effort. Additionally, the language used to convey compliance and program management requirements is technical and complex, possibly hindering understanding for individuals who do not specialize in this area. Furthermore, the notice lacks an elaboration on specific outcomes or goals related to the data collection, which would assist stakeholders in grasping its necessity and value. There is also no exploration of potential financial implications or costs involved in implementing and monitoring this information collection. Lastly, the notice does not identify particular organizations or individuals who might benefit from the information collection, leaving room for concerns about fairness.
Broad Public Impact
The notice has implications for the public at large, particularly those interested in government accountability and the effective use of funds designated for housing and urban development. The outcome of this public comment process can lead to improvements in how HUD tracks and manages the HTF, potentially affecting how effectively such funds are utilized to meet housing needs. An optimized process could ensure better management of resources, leading to greater trust in government initiatives among the public.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
Certain stakeholders, such as housing developers, local governments, and community organizations, could be directly impacted by this information collection process. For these stakeholders, the information gathered and reported can determine their eligibility for HTF funds and impact their ability to plan and execute housing projects. Improved data collection could result in more efficient use of funds, ultimately benefiting communities where housing support is critically needed. Conversely, cumbersome or unclear information collection processes could increase administrative burdens on these stakeholders, affecting their operational efficiency and strategic planning.
In summary, while the notice offers an opportunity for the public and designated stakeholders to influence HUD’s approach to tracking HTF funds, the document could benefit from greater clarity and detail regarding its implications and the exact burden on respondents. Public participation during this comment period is crucial to ensure that the resulting information collection serves its intended purpose efficiently and equitably.
Issues
• The document does not provide specific estimates for the number of respondents, number of responses, frequency, average hours per response, or total estimated burdens, making it difficult to assess the scope and potential impact of the information collection.
• The language used to describe the compliance and program management requirements is complex and may be difficult for non-specialists or members of the public to fully understand.
• The notice lacks an explanation of any specific outcomes or goals related to the collection of information, which could help stakeholders understand the purpose and necessity of the data collection.
• There is no information provided on the potential financial implications or costs associated with the implementation and monitoring of the information collection, which could be relevant for evaluating wasteful spending.
• The notice does not specify any particular organizations or individuals that may benefit from the information collection, which could raise concerns about favoritism or unfair advantage.