Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act

This bill streamlines environmental reviews for certain housing projects under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). It reclassifies HUD-funded housing activities into three categories: some (like tenant assistance) become fully exempt from review, others (like rehabbing small buildings) get simplified "categorical exclusion" status if they don’t alter environmental conditions, and infill projects (new construction on previously disturbed urban land surrounded by development) receive streamlined review. The bill directly affects HUD housing programs, developers of infill projects, and local governments managing housing approvals. It aims to reduce review times and administrative costs, with HUD required to report annually on these impacts, particularly for affordable housing.