Top 3 Green Policy Updates - August 2025
By Katie Dorn
Published Tuesday, August 26, 2025
As we near the end of August, we are closely following many policy issues and funding opportunities. Here are three of the most important developments you’ll want to keep an eye on:
1. QAP “Season” Is Officially Underway
August has become the unofficial start of “QAP season,” with several states releasing their draft Qualified Allocation Plans (QAPs). Right now, Arizona, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas have draft QAPs posted. Some of these states also have open public comment periods. This is a critical time for affordable housing stakeholders to weigh in. If you operate in these markets, now’s the time to provide input and make your voice heard!
2. ENERGY STAR Appears Safe… For Now
The future of ENERGY STAR has been uncertain, but at least for the moment, the program appears to be safe. Before Congress left for August recess, the House and Senate Appropriations Committees passed their spending bills for FY26, with both bills directing the EPA to maintain funding for ENERGY STAR. That said, nothing is guaranteed. The real test will come when Congress reconvenes after Labor Day weekend. FY26 begins October 1st, so there is a short window for resolutions to be made. We’ll be watching closely and hoping for the best.
3. Waiting on HUD & USDA Updates
We are also at a standstill as we wait for updates on two major programs and rulings: the HUD Green Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) program and the HUD/USDA Energy Code Adoption rule. Home Innovation Research Labs submitted letters during the public comment period last month for both the Green MIP and Code Adoption rule. These decisions will have significant implications for the NGBS Green program, as a large number of NGBS Green certifications take advantage of the Green MIP, and the HUD rule currently recognizes NGBS Green as an alternative to code compliance in federally supported housing.
Bottom Line
August has been full of movement at the state level, with several state draft QAPs being released and many public comment opportunities available. At the Federal level, there’s been a lot of uncertainty as we wait to hear about the status of key programs and the decision on a key rule. Stay tuned for further updates from the NGBS Green Team as the policy decisions continue to unfold!