The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is seeking to limit access to federally funded housing programs exclusively to American citizens and immigrants with an "eligible" immigration status, according to a report by Telemundo on Thursday.
The government is pushing a new regulation that may force thousands of immigrants to vacate subsidized public housing, even if they reside with family members who are citizens or legal residents.
Impact of the Proposed Regulation
Currently, so-called "mixed-status" families, where some members are citizens or legal residents while others are undocumented, can often receive partial housing assistance. This new rule could put an end to that practice.
Under the proposed rule, every individual living in public housing would need to provide proof of citizenship or valid immigration status, with no exceptions allowed.
Even seniors over the age of 62 would be required to verify their status, a change from the previous requirement, which only asked them to prove their age.
Potential for Mass Evictions
Human rights organizations have raised concerns that this measure could lead to widespread evictions. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities estimates that up to 20,000 families, totaling around 80,000 individuals, could lose assistance if the rule is enacted.
HUD's Justification for the Measure
HUD Secretary Scott Turner stated that the goal is to prevent "ineligible" individuals from benefiting from public resources. "The days of illegal foreigners taking advantage of the system are over," Turner said in a statement quoted by Telemundo.
This proposal is part of a tougher immigration policy promoted by Donald Trump in his new term, revisiting a similar initiative attempted during his first administration.
Timeline for Implementation
The rule is set to be published in the Federal Register this Friday, though HUD has not specified how long it will take to implement. Meanwhile, legal and community organizations are preparing for a legal battle, warning that the measure could leave thousands of vulnerable families without a place to live.
FAQs About the Proposed Housing Regulation
What is the primary aim of the proposed HUD rule?
The main goal is to restrict access to federally funded housing programs to U.S. citizens and immigrants with an eligible immigration status, preventing undocumented immigrants from benefiting from public resources.
How could this rule impact mixed-status families?
Mixed-status families, which include both documented and undocumented members, could lose partial housing assistance they currently receive, potentially leading to evictions.
What are the concerns raised by human rights organizations?
Human rights organizations warn that the rule could lead to mass evictions, leaving thousands of vulnerable families without housing.