New Time Limits on Rental Aid: What the Trump Administration’s Plan Means for You

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New Time Limits on Rental Aid: What the Trump Administration’s Plan Means for You

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is considering new rules that could change how federal rental assistance works. They might impose time limits on housing subsidies and add work requirements. This plan, revealed through an internal document, has sparked concern among housing advocates.

Currently, about nine million Americans receive federal housing assistance. Most of them are elderly or disabled, and they may be exempt from these changes. However, many others could face significant challenges. As Deborah Thrope from the National Housing Law Project states, "It would have a devastating impact on families."

Experts have pointed out that there is little evidence to support the idea that time limits or work requirements help people find jobs or move off government aid. Many people receiving assistance already work as much as they can. Some may be taking care of family members or unable to afford daycare.

Supporters of the proposed changes argue that limiting assistance could help spread resources among more people. However, Howard Husock of the American Enterprise Institute warns that such limits could lead to unintended consequences. "Time limits should include provisions for savings and fixed rents," he suggests, to help families improve their financial situations.

Historically, only a small number of local housing authorities have tried implementing such time limits, and many have found them ineffective. For example, the Keene Housing Authority in New Hampshire once had a five-year limit but abandoned it after seeing that families weren’t significantly increasing their incomes.

Recent statistics show that the demand for affordable housing far exceeds supply, putting additional pressure on families already struggling to make ends meet. In a competitive rental market, many landlords have been hesitant to participate in housing assistance programs, fearing high turnover rates.

As new regulations loom, experts worry that giving families strict time limits on assistance could worsen the affordable housing crisis and increase homelessness in the U.S. With housing less affordable than ever, the stakes are high for millions of Americans relying on these vital resources.

For more insights into housing policies, you can explore reports from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities here.



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