PATH Act

This bill, known as the "Pathways to a Thriving Household Act," aims to increase workforce participation among recipients of federal public housing assistance by allowing public housing agencies and owners to implement minimum work requirements. These requirements can specify a maximum of 40 hours per week and apply to various forms of public housing and project-based assistance.

The legislation establishes several exemptions from these work requirements, including individuals under 18 or over 62, those with a disability, pregnant women, and primary parents or caretakers of dependent children under six or individuals with serious medical conditions. It also exempts students enrolled in higher education. A wide range of activities, such as unsubsidized employment, job training, community service, and education directly related to employment, are considered to fulfill the work requirement.

Public housing agencies and owners choosing to implement these requirements must offer supportive services to assist individuals in obtaining employment and maintain uniform policies. They are also required to make the policy publicly available and establish a written policy for determining hardship exceptions, which includes provisions for individuals seeking disability status, those temporarily relocated due to disaster, or those actively trying to find work. Enforcement, including annual verification and potential termination of assistance for non-compliance, must adhere to existing federal regulations, with the amendment taking effect on January 1, 2027.