Boston Sues Trump Administration Over HUD Grant Program Changes

The city of Boston has taken legal action against the Trump administration regarding significant changes to the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant program. This lawsuit also includes support from various New England states, but notably excludes New Hampshire.

Boston’s Legal Challenge Against HUD Changes

Boston’s mayor, Michelle Wu, announced the lawsuit during an event in downtown Boston. The city claims that HUD has modified its program in a manner that contradicts congressional intent. These changes impose new conditions on funding access, including requirements to recognize only two genders.

Last year, Boston successfully contested a similar grant issue in court. Mayor Wu highlighted that this year’s approach by HUD has shifted following last year’s legal setback. She emphasized the importance of funding for permanent supportive housing, which has been effective in addressing chronic homelessness in Boston.

Impact of HUD Program Changes

• Boston has received HUD grants since the early 1990s through the Continuum of Care program.
• This funding supports housing projects for veterans, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness.
• In 2023, Boston was allocated approximately $48 million, benefiting over 2,000 households and supporting 19 local nonprofits, including the Pine Street Inn.

Sheila A. Dillon, Chief of Housing, stated that the proposed federal changes pose significant risks to Boston’s residents. Without these grants, many vulnerable people could lose their homes. Wu echoed these concerns, suggesting that the funds are foundational to Boston’s efforts to combat homelessness.

Specifics of the Recent HUD Criteria

On November 13, 2023, HUD announced new funding criteria that reject successful anti-homelessness strategies. Notably, this includes reallocating $29 million previously intended for permanent housing to temporary solutions with stringent service requirements, such as compulsory treatment and employment.

• These changes challenge Boston’s “housing first” approach, which prioritizes immediate stable housing for the homeless.
• Wu describes the new funding notice as destabilizing to the program, altering project eligibility and grant conditions significantly.

Coalition of Supporters

Boston is not alone in this lawsuit. Other cities, including Cambridge, San Francisco, and Nashville, along with various nonprofit organizations, have joined the legal action. Groups involved include the National Alliance to End Homelessness and the National Low Income Housing Coalition.

Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune criticized the federal government’s withdrawal from its funding responsibilities. This funding is crucial for essential services for those facing homelessness, including veterans and individuals dealing with mental health challenges.

Positive Outcomes from Previous Funding

Pine Street Inn, one of the beneficiaries of HUD funding, reported that 98% of its tenants remain housed after one year, with the street homelessness rate in Boston below 2.5%. Lyndia Downie, President and Executive Director of Pine Street Inn, believes their success indicates the effectiveness of current strategies.

As Boston continues its legal battle against the Trump administration, the city’s leaders remain committed to protecting the funding necessary to support its homeless population and maintain effective anti-homelessness programs.