THE 1980s

The 1980s began with changes in the rules governing thrift institutions and expanding alternative mortgages. It was a time of retrenchment in HUD-funded housing construction programs. Budgetary constraints eliminated Section 8 New Construction and Substantial Rehabilitation programs, but the Section 8 Voucher Demonstration, the Housing Development Action Grant, and Rental Rehabilitation programs were implemented by the Housing and Urban-Rural Recovery Act of 1983. Other significant measures to ensure housing opportunities for all addressed the housing needs of Native Americans and Alaskan Indians and the homeless. The Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) program created affordable housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income families. The scope of fair housing provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 was expanded, giving HUD additional enforcement responsibilities.

Significant research was produced by PD&R during this decade.

Research in the 1980s

Housing Cost Reduction Demonstration

Participation and Benefits in the Urban Section 8 Program: New Construction and Existing Housing

Mobile Home Research. Development of Mobile Home Fire Test Methods to Judge the Fire-Safe Performance of Foam Plastic Sheathing and Cavity Insulation: Test Report

Factors Influencing Crime and Instability in Urban Housing Developments

Fair Housing Assistance Program Evaluation

Recent Evidence on Discrimination in Housing

Fair Market Rents (FMRs) for Existing Dwellings: An Evaluation Through Hedonic Index Methods

Rent Reduction Credit Feature of the Section 8 Existing Housing Program

Complete HUD Timeline | Download as PDF

The 1980s saw significant measures to ensure housing opportunities for all with new rental programs, Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, and changes in rules governing thrift institutions.