Uniform Relocation Act (URA)
The Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act (URA) is a federal law enacted to ensure fair and equitable treatment of individuals, families, and businesses displaced by projects involving the acquisition of real property using federal funds. The URA provides guidelines for relocating displaced persons while also addressing the acquisition of property for public use. The primary objectives of the URA include protecting the rights of affected individuals, minimizing hardships associated with displacement, and promoting transparency and accountability in the relocation process.
Key features of the URA include:
1. Fair Compensation: The URA mandates that property owners who are forced to sell their property due to a federally funded project receive just and equitable compensation based on the property's fair market value.
2. Relocation Assistance: The URA requires that individuals and families facing displacement are provided with reasonable relocation assistance. This assistance includes financial support for moving expenses, security deposits, and temporary housing.
3. Notice and Consultation: Agencies conducting projects subject to the URA must provide timely and clear notices to affected residents and businesses. They are also required to engage in consultation with these individuals, discussing the project's impact and potential relocation options.
4. Replacement Housing: Displaced persons must be offered comparable replacement housing that meets certain standards of size, quality, and affordability.
5. Non-Discrimination: The URA prohibits any form of discrimination in the relocation process based on factors such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or income.
6. Appeals Process: The URA establishes an appeals process for individuals who believe they have not been treated fairly or have not received appropriate assistance.
7. Consistency: The URA aims to ensure consistent treatment of displaced persons across different projects and geographic areas, regardless of the agency involved.
The URA applies to a range of federally funded projects, including infrastructure developments, housing redevelopment, and urban renewal initiatives. It is particularly relevant in projects involving affordable housing, such as Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) redevelopments, where displaced residents may need to be relocated.
Overall, the URA is designed to protect the rights and well-being of individuals and communities impacted by federally funded projects, providing a framework for fair treatment, compensation, and assistance during the process of property acquisition and relocation.