This rule, published on July 31, 2012, provides the regulatory framework to implement the Continuum of Care Program, established by the Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing Act of 2009 (HEARTH Act), enacted into law on May 20, 2009. This rule establishes the regulations for the Continuum of Care program, and the regulations governing the Continuum of Care planning process. However, recognizing that recipients have gained valuable experience implementing the interim rule, HUD plans to solicit comments before issuing a final rule. After HUD completes its request for comment, HUD will proceed to issuing a final rule that incorporates feedback it receives along with changes made by a separate interim final rule which allows individuals and families to choose housing outside of a Continuum of Care’s geographic area, subject to certain conditions. HUD also published a request for comments regarding whether HUD should make changes to the formula. HUD will consider all of these comments before issuing a final rule.