July 9, 2019

On July 9, 2019, we submitted comments to the Department of Housing and Urban Development in response to their proposed rule, the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980: Verification of Eligible Status.

The proposed rule changes would evict over 100,000 people in the midst of a national housing crisis. It also scapegoats immigrant communities as the cause of long-standing systemic problems rather than addressing them.

We stand in opposition of the rule changes for the following reasons:

1. It will hurt tens of thousands of immigrant families including many citizen children
2. It will hurt U.S. citizens and the aging population
3. It will reduce the quality and quantity of federally assisted units
4. It will hurt the U.S. Economy and is in conflict with U.S. policy priorities on preventing and responding to homelessness
5. Would violate HUD's obligation to affirmatively further fair housing
6. Will disproportionately hurt already vulnerable disadvantaged populations
7. HUD has not adequately addressed the administrative burdens created by the proposed rule 

We urge HUD to immediately withdraw its current proposal, and dedicate its efforts to advancing policies that strengthen—rather than undermine—the ability of immigrants to support themselves and their families in the future. If we want our communities to thrive, everyone in those communities must be able to stay together and get the care, services and support they need to remain healthy and productive.