De La Cruz reintroduces bill mandating annual HUD Inspector General testimony

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz has reintroduced the HUD Transparency Act, a bill that requires the Inspector General (IG) of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to testify annually before Congress. The legislation outlines that the IG must report on efforts to detect and prevent fraud, waste, and abuse; conduct and supervise audits, investigations, and reviews; identify opportunities for improvement in HUD programs; and recommend ways to enhance efficiency and public accountability.

"HUD’s budget exceeds $70 billion," stated De La Cruz. "Until 2023, it had been five years without testimony from the IG's office. That must change to ensure accountability for these taxpayer dollars meant to help those who need it most. The HUD Transparency Act ensures Congress has a consistent oversight mechanism for HUD."

The Congresswoman initially introduced this legislation during the 118th Congress, where it passed in the House in July 2024. It is anticipated that the bill will again pass in the House, proceed smoothly through the Senate, and be signed into law.