Housing Innovation Act

The Housing Innovation Act establishes a new Office of Housing Innovation within HUD, led by a presidentially appointed Assistant Secretary. This office coordinates federal agencies (like Transportation and EPA) to support local efforts through three grant programs: planning grants ($2M max per city) for zoning reforms near transit/job centers, research grants ($500k max) for pilot projects on housing innovations, and education grants ($200k max) for academic outreach. The bill authorizes $100 million annually (2025-2031) for these programs, with 90% dedicated to planning grants, and requires a GAO review after three years to assess effectiveness. It directly affects cities and towns in urban areas facing housing shortages, aiming to increase supply, affordability, and housing diversity through local policy changes.