Oregon Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, alongside 40 Democratic colleagues, have called on the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to stop proposed changes that could disrupt a crucial homelessness program. In a letter addressed to HUD Secretary Scott Turner, the senators expressed serious concerns about the potential impact of alterations to the Continuum of Care (CoC) program, which they warn could leave nearly 200,000 Americans without shelter.
The senators highlighted that the proposed changes, initiated during the previous administration, include a significant reduction in funding for permanent housing. Specifically, the cap on available funds would drop dramatically from 87 percent to just 30 percent. This shift not only threatens the vulnerable populations that rely on these programs but also raises legal concerns regarding compliance with the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
Urgent Call for Action
In their correspondence, the senators emphasized the necessity of adhering to existing laws and minimizing harm to communities. They stated, “We should never have to question whether agency officials will faithfully follow the law and work to minimize harm to our constituents and communities.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern over HUD’s transparency and commitment to fulfilling its obligations.
Reports indicate that HUD has restricted its staff from assessing the legality of the proposed changes, which has raised alarms among lawmakers and stakeholders. The absence of clear communication from HUD has further complicated the situation. As noted by the senators, there has been an ongoing lack of response to critical inquiries, leaving those dependent on these services in a state of uncertainty.
A Dire Situation for Funding and Support
With funding processes for fiscal year 2025 currently stalled and existing CoC project grants nearing expiration, the situation demands urgent attention. The senators warned that any modifications to the program could significantly increase street homelessness and create chaos within communities nationwide.
They concluded their letter by urging Secretary Turner to respect the authorities granted by Congress and to ensure the responsible renewal of CoC grants. The senators stressed the importance of maintaining this essential safety net for the nation’s most vulnerable individuals, underscoring that the proposed changes would have far-reaching implications beyond political discussions.
The call to action from Oregon’s senators highlights an essential dialogue about homelessness in the United States. As the situation unfolds, the future of the CoC program and its beneficiaries hangs in the balance, underscoring the critical need for decisive and lawful action from HUD.
