Government Shutdown? Here’s What It Means for Affordable Housing Residents
The National Housing Law Project recently published a resource online titled Do You Live in HUD or USDA Housing? Know Your Rights During the Government Shutdown.
When the federal government shuts down, many services and programs can be delayed or disrupted because agencies stop non-essential activities until funding is approved. NHLP explains what this means for tenants in housing supported by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) rural housing programs, and outlines what renters should know and what to do.
Key Points for Residents
If you live in housing assisted by HUD or USDA (such as HUD public housing, Section 8 vouchers, project-based assistance, or USDA rural housing programs) you should not immediately lose your assistance simply because of a shutdown. NHLP notes: “Most tenants … should not experience a disruption in their housing because of the shutdown.”
However, you should continue to pay your portion of the rent as usual. Non-payment could lead to lease issues even if your federal landlord assistance is on hold.
If the shutdown lasts for a longer period (for example beyond November, in this context), your rights or the operations of programs might change. The article suggests contacting an attorney for updated guidance.
For attorneys & advocates
The article notes there is a memo available (via NHLP) which gives an overview of how the shutdown may affect the major federal housing assistance programs, and how to advise clients accordingly.
Advocates should stay current on program policy changes, because during a shutdown, procedures may shift and risk for tenants may increase if programs are paused or delayed.
Download NHLP’s Tenants Rights During the Government Shutdown Flyer
