__________ requires states to establish and adopt minimum provisions and uniform standards for the licensing and registration of mortgage lending businesses and brokers.

The Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act (SAFE Act) is the law that mandates states to create and implement minimum provisions and uniform standards for the licensing and registration of mortgage lending businesses and brokers. This legislation was enacted to enhance consumer protections and reduce fraud by establishing a national framework for the licensing of mortgage loan originators. The SAFE Act requires state licensing agencies to work together to set consistent requirements, thus ensuring that mortgage professionals meet specific educational, background check, and testing standards.

The SAFE Act aims to provide greater transparency and accountability within the mortgage industry, ultimately promoting responsible lending practices. By having uniform regulations across different states, the Act intends to facilitate the movement of mortgage professionals across state lines while ensuring that consumers are protected no matter where they seek mortgage services.

In contrast, other acts mentioned in the choices focus on different aspects of housing and finance. For example, the Housing and Economic Recovery Act (HERA) primarily addresses issues related to housing finance and reforming government-sponsored enterprises. The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) is centered around collecting data to ensure mortgage lending practices are fair and transparent but does not directly establish licensing standards. The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) focuses on disclosures related to the costs of settlement services in real