Federally-funded programs or projects which are designed to benefit the public often need to acquire private property in order to be developed - which sometimes results in the displacement of individuals from their homes, businesses, or farms. To ensure property owners and tenants are treated fairly, equitably and receive relocation assistance, the "Uniform Act" was enacted by Congress in 1970.
The "Uniform Act" provides important protections and assistance for people affected by federally-funded projects government-wide. To provide guidance and assistance to Federal government agencies, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) was named as the Federal lead agency for the Uniform Act, a role filled by FHWA's Office of Real Estate Services. The Lead Agency is responsible for developing, issuing, and maintaining government-wide regulations, as well as providing assistance to Uniform Act Federal agencies and providing an annual report to Congress.
On May 3, 2024, FHWA published a Final Rule in the Federal Register to update the government-wide Uniform Act regulation.
Uniform Act Final Rule Webinar
