The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has proposed a rule that would prevent mixed-status families from living in HUD-assisted housing. In Fresno County, this proposal would impact 353 households, which is approximately 839 adults and 653 children, according to Tyrone Roderick Williams, CEO of the Fresno Housing Authority.

Local Impact

Williams expressed concern that many of these families would struggle to find housing if the rule is implemented. “That could lead to doubling up, contributing to people falling into homelessness, it could reach a lot of other things that we won’t be able to control,” he said. The proposed rule would end the current policy of prorated aid, which allows eligible family members, such as U.S. citizen children, to receive assistance even if other household members are illegal immigrants.

Nationwide, HUD estimates that nearly 79,600 people in more than 20,000 mixed-status households could lose assistance if prorated aid is eliminated. The proposed rule would disproportionately affect Latino families, as they make up approximately 86% of households with mixed immigration status currently receiving HUD assistance.

Community Concerns

Joseph Haydock, a member of the leadership council of Fresno Fair Housing Advocates, said the proposed federal rule reflects a broader rollback of fair housing protections and could deepen fear and discrimination within immigrant communities across Fresno County. Haydock argued that the proposal would not save federal money, as illegal immigrants already do not receive federal housing funds.

Julian Castro, former secretary of HUD, criticized the proposed rule, saying it would create an impossible choice for many families. “Choose having a roof over your head, but put part of your family out on the street or live out on the street together. It’s cruel and unnecessary, and is harmful all around,” he said.

Original reporting: Fresnoland — read the source article.