Legislative Updates

This section provides the latest updates and background information on key pieces of homelessness-related legislation.
  • Federal Homelessness Appropriations
    Each year, Congress passes a budget, allocating funds to federal programs, including housing and homelessness programs.
  • McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Grants
    The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Grants program represents the primary source of federal funding for programs serving homeless people. In 2009, the HEARTH Act made significant improvements to this program, though securing funding for implementation is still ongoing.
  • SAMHSA Homeless Services
    The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides funding for several programs that provide services to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
  • Section 8 Voucher Funding and Reform
    Section 8 tenant-based rental assistance (the “Housing Choice Voucher program”) is the primary program assisting extremely low-income people with the cost of housing. The Section 8 Savings Act would streamline and enhance the program.
  • Homeless Youth Legislation
    Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (RHYA) programs help prevent exploitation of youth on the streets and support reconnection to their families, schools, employment, and housing options.
  • Homeless Vets Legislation
    The Obama Administration has committed to ending homelessness among veterans in five years. Congress is currently considering a number of legislative priorities that would help VA achieve this goal.
  • Housing Production Legislation
    In 2008, the National Housing Trust Fund was established as part of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act. However, the Trust Fund has not yet been funded, and concerted advocacy efforts are underway to change that.