Housing (Mortgages · Emergency Management)

This bill expands eligibility for FEMA disaster assistance by broadening the types of evidence considered proof of property ownership for survivors without formal deeds. It allows applicants to submit documents like property tax receipts, mortgage records, insurance papers, or even death certificates (in states without will requirements) to demonstrate "constructive ownership" of their home. The bill also permits a simple signed declaration under penalty of perjury - without notarization - to support claims when other evidence is insufficient. These changes apply to disaster assistance funds appropriated after the bill's enactment, directly helping individuals affected by major disasters who lack traditional ownership documentation.

Disaster Housing Reform for American Families Act This bill requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish a five-year pilot program under the Individuals and Households Program (IHP) through which FEMA contracts to provide factory-built housing to serve disaster survivors until the disaster declaration terminates and then be utilized for affordable housing. It also authorizes FEMA to provide IHP grants for closing costs associated with obtaining certain mortgages.  Specifically, FEMA must enter into a contract with a producer or seller of manufactured or modular homes to construct such housing as a type of temporary housing assistance under IHP. The bill requires the housing to meet specified criteria, including that it must be available within 90 days (unless extended to 120 days) after the disaster declaration, have no more than four units, and provide a minimum level of protection from natural hazards. The housing must conform to various specified standards, but the bill authorizes the Department of Housing and Urban Development to waive any such requirement for construction under the pilot program. Also, the bill requires FEMA to establish guidelines for transferring the housing to an affordable housing program after the termination of the relevant disaster declaration. However, the bill also authorizes it to become permanent housing after the declaration terminates. In addition, the bill authorizes FEMA to provide IHP grants to disaster-impacted individuals or households purchasing residential property for closing costs associated with obtaining a mortgage from a federal program providing affordable financing options.