The Manufactured Housing Association for Regulatory Reform informs MHProNews the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has published a final rule that implements Manufactured Housing Consensus Committee (MHCC) recommendations made in 2005. Set to take effect June 9, 2014, the final rule omits MHCC-proposed changes to the HUD formaldehyde standards and also does not include energy related provisions that may conflict with Department of Energy (DOE) rules yet to be developed. The rule also stated the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has determined HUD Code homes have a similar safety record to that of one-and two-family houses, making sprinkler systems an unnecessary requirement. However, the final rule includes particular requirements that were not brought before the MHCC that might impact the cost of production, even though the Manufactured Housing Act of 2000 states all new or revised standards must go through the MHCC consensus. This subverts the process and allows for special interests to potentially influence the regulatory procedure. MHARR says it will address these matters at its upcoming communication with HUD Assistant Secretary Carol Galante.

(Image credit: Manufactured Housing Association for Regulatory Reform)