The U.S. House of Representatives voted on April 26 to pass a harmful budget proposal that would lift the debt ceiling in exchange for dramatic cuts to domestic spending, including funding for affordable housing and homelessness programs. The “Limit, Save, and Grow Act,” which was introduced by House Republicans, would cut federal domestic spending for fiscal year (FY) 2024 to FY22 levels, resulting in at least a 23% reduction in funding for key programs, depending on how cuts are designed. The proposal would also limit future spending increases to 1% annually for 10 years, rescind unspent COVID-19 relief funds, and put in place rigid work requirements for some anti-poverty programs, among other harmful provisions. The Opportunity Starts at Home (OSAH) campaign urges advocates to tell their senators to reject this disastrous proposal.
Research shows clearly that investments to make housing more affordable generate multiplying returns across many sectors. Stable, affordable housing options located in neighborhoods of opportunity are associated with better educational outcomes, better physical and mental health outcomes, lower healthcare expenditures, greater food security, stronger upward economic mobility and growth, greater racial and gender equity, fewer encounters with the criminal legal system, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and other benefits. Unfortunately, years of underinvestment in affordable housing solutions have contributed to our current housing crisis. For example, although it is well-documented that housing vouchers and other rental assistance are highly effective in addressing homelessness and housing instability, reducing domestic violence, and improving other outcomes, three out of every four people eligible for rental assistance do not receive it due to inadequate funding.
OSAH urges advocates to let their senators know that they oppose any cuts to funding for essential housing and homelessness programs. Advocates can send a letter opposing cuts to their senator here.