Streamlining Rural Housing Act of 2025

This bill mandates that the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and the Secretary of Agriculture enter into a **memorandum of understanding** within 180 days of enactment. This agreement aims to **streamline processes** for housing projects funded by both departments, focusing on environmental reviews and potentially physical inspections. Specifically, the MOU will require evaluating categorical exclusions, developing a lead agency process to streamline the adoption of environmental impact statements and assessments, and maintaining compliance with existing environmental regulations. It also calls for an evaluation of the feasibility of a **joint physical inspection process** for these shared housing projects. Furthermore, the bill establishes an **advisory working group** within 180 days, comprising various rural and non-rural stakeholders, including affordable housing organizations, developers, and residents, to consult on the MOU's implementation. Finally, within one year, both Secretaries must submit a report to Congress with recommendations to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of these housing projects, ensuring that any proposed changes do not reduce resident safety, shift long-term costs, or undermine environmental standards.