The Fix Moldy Housing Act would authorize a multi-year federal effort to better assess and address mold in occupied housing and public buildings, with a focus on helping State and Tribal governments. The bill requires a study by the National Academies on when indoor mold assessment and remediation are warranted and how to do it safely. It would then prompt the creation of nonbinding national standards for mold assessment and remediation, and establish a program to assist states and tribes—primarily through grants—to set up licensing for mold professionals, provide technical assistance, and fund training. In addition, the bill authorizes grants to cover mold assessment/remediation costs in government buildings and in private homes deemed severely impacted, including temporary housing costs for some households. Overall, the act aims to produce clearer guidance, standardized practices, and targeted funding to reduce mold-related housing issues, with particular emphasis on low-income communities and areas prone to damp conditions. Key elements include a mandatory study (with a congressionally reported timeline), nonbinding national standards, licensing and training programs for mold professionals, and grant programs to remediate mold in public buildings and private residences, plus restrictions and prioritization intended to direct resources toward low-income households and high-risk areas. The bill authorizes up to $50 million per year for 2026–2030 to fund these activities and sets limits on federal cost-sharing (not more than 60%) and required allocations for certain types of properties.
Key Points
- 1Study on mold assessment/remediation: The EPA must arrange a study with the National Academies to determine when mold assessment/remediation is warranted and how to do it safely, with a final report to Congress within 1 year.
- 2Nonbinding national standards: Within 2 years, the Administrator (EPA) and other federal agency heads must issue nonbinding national standards identifying mold levels to assess/remediate and outlining proper assessment and remediation methods, informed by the study results.
- 3State/Tribal program and licensing: The Act creates a program to help States and Tribes assess/remediate mold, including grants to establish licensing programs for mold professionals, with use of funds for operating costs, and preferential funding for areas prone to mold due to humidity or other factors.
- 4Grants for public buildings and severely impacted homes: Grants may cover mold work in government-owned/leased buildings (e.g., schools, housing) and private homes. Grants may also pay for temporary housing up to 6 months and related moving costs for severely affected households lacking insurance or adequate resources. Recipients must implement a licensing program, and funds cannot be used for high-income housing; priority goes to low-income households and communities, especially in high-susceptibility areas.
- 5Funding and allocations: Federal share for activities funded under the grants section cannot exceed 60%. At least 20% of annual funds must go to mold work in government buildings and at least 20% to private residential properties. The bill authorizes $50 million per year for 2026–2030 to support these activities.
- 6Definitions: Clarifies roles (Administrator = EPA), mold definition, and state scope (includes DC and U.S. territories).