Government Shut-Down: HUD Issues

October 1, 2013: The federal government has shut down.

On September 19, 2013 the House of Representatives passed a Continuing Resolution that would fund all federal programs at slightly below post-sequestration levels, but would de-fund the Affordable Care Act. When it was introduced in the Senate, Majority Leader Harry Reid called it unworkable, and President Obama said outright that he would veto any bill that would de-fund the Affordable Care Act. Members of Congress had until October 1, 2013 to strike a deal or shut the government down. As of this writing, a deal has not been struck.

Here’s what we can expect as a result:

The Real Estate Assessment Center Technical Assistance Center (REAC TAC) has shut down, as of 8:30pm Eastern time Monday, September 30, 2013.

HUD’s emergency activities will continue, including functions funded under multi-year appropriations. This is defined as where a failure to perform a function would result in an imminent threat to the safety of human life or the protection of property. Voucher payments will be made for properties which have permanent or indefinite authority or multi-year funding.

Of HUD’s 8,709 employees, only 349 will be working; the rest are furloughed until a new government spending bill is authorized.

The staff continuing to work will continue on with renewing and funding Section 8 contracts and PRACS, which have budget authority available from previous appropriations or from recaptures. PBCAs will continue to be paid for work on properties with prior appropriations. HUD-owned properties will continue to be managed, and emergency repairs will be approved.

For more information about available government services, visit USA.gov.