Millions Could Lose Housing Aid Under Trump Plan
According to experts who reviewed unpublished rules obtained by ProPublica, the Trump administration's plans could lead to 4 million people losing federal housing assistance. The proposed changes would introduce work requirements for many recipients of federal housing aid and impose two-year limits on living in federally supported housing.
The rules, which have not been publicly released, would also strip aid from entire families if one household member is in the country illegally. This move has sparked concerns among advocates who argue that it would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including low-income families and those with disabilities.
"This plan would be a disaster for many people who are already struggling to make ends meet," said Diane Yentel, executive director of the National Low Income Housing Coalition. "It's not just about work requirements; it's about creating a system that is designed to fail."
The proposed changes have been in the works since 2020, but their release has been delayed due to internal disagreements within the administration. The rules are expected to be finalized soon, with some experts predicting that they could take effect as early as next year.
Background on the issue shows that federal housing assistance programs have been under scrutiny for years, with some lawmakers and policymakers arguing that they are too expensive and inefficient. However, advocates argue that these programs provide a vital safety net for millions of Americans who would otherwise be homeless or struggling to afford housing.
The proposed changes have also raised concerns about their potential impact on vulnerable populations, including low-income families, people with disabilities, and those in the country illegally. "This plan would not only harm individuals but also perpetuate systemic inequality," said Maria Foscarinis, executive director of the National Coalition for the Homeless.
As the Trump administration's plans move forward, advocates are urging lawmakers to take action to protect federal housing assistance programs. "We need to make sure that these programs continue to provide a safety net for those who need it most," said Yentel.
The proposed changes have sparked a heated debate about the role of government in providing social services and the impact of policy decisions on vulnerable populations. As the issue continues to unfold, one thing is clear: millions of Americans could lose their housing aid if the Trump administration's plans are implemented.
Sources:
ProPublica
National Low Income Housing Coalition
National Coalition for the Homeless
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*Reporting by Propublica.*
