Statement from Enterprise SVP Public Policy Marion Mollegen McFadden on HUD's Proposed Rule on the Verification of Eligible Status
WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 10, 2019) – In communities nationwide, hardworking Americans find that their wages have not kept up with the rent. As a matter of good public policy, we need more housing that is affordable for low-income families. We must work to connect people to opportunities to get an education, travel to work, and receive medical care. Healthy housing for everyone is the foundation to inclusive, thriving communities. HUD should lead the nation in improving the housing stability of millions of American households.
HUD’s proposed rule to change the regulations implementing section 214 and to add additional layers of bureaucracy to an already-implemented law is misguided and deeply concerning. Per HUD’s own analysis, the targeting of mixed-status families would not clear public housing waiting lists - instead it would render tens of thousands of American children homeless. HUD should be directing its focus on scaling up programs and policies that work to address the needs of underserved communities. HUD should work to eradicate poverty and ensure housing policies are fair and equitable. Enterprise strongly opposes the proposed amendments, and we urge the administration to turn its focus to more efficiently and equitably serve low-income communities.
