NLIHC is calling on advocates to comment in support of HUD’s recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), “Reducing Barriers to HUD-Assisted Housing.” The deadline for comments is June 10.
The NPRM proposes updates to HUD’s existing screening regulations for applicants with conviction histories or a history of involvement with the criminal-legal system. The proposed changes would reduce unnecessary barriers to HUD-assisted housing that too often prevent people impacted by the criminal-legal system from accessing housing.
Advocates, especially those with lived experience, are encouraged to submit a public comment to help HUD shape the final guidance and support needed updates. Comments are due by June 10.
Advocates can weigh in with HUD by:
- Submitting a comment. Participating in the public comment period is a great way to influence federal policymaking. After the public comment period ends, HUD must review and take into consideration all comments before publishing a final rule. Your comment can be long or short, written formally or informally, based on research or your own experiences and the experiences of people you know. Consider answering questions like:
- What are some of the biggest challenges you/your clients have faced trying to find housing?
- How many apartments did you/your client apply for before finding your/their current housing?
- Have you/Has your client been able to find stable housing, and what has the impact been?
- How have these barriers impacted your friends/family members/community?
- Using the comment portal from the Vera Institute for Justice (Vera). Vera created a comment portal where advocates can submit comments in support of the proposed rule. The portal includes a template with a pre-written message that advocates can submit as-is or update with their own content. While all positive messages help, comments must be at least 30% original content to be fully considered by HUD.
NLIHC will also be circulating a comment for sign-on, open to all state, local, national, and tribal partners. We will continue to update our website with additional resources and information.
View the proposed rule and submit a public comment here.
Learn more about the proposed rule here.