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Biden's Homelessness Policy Shift Risks 117,000 Evictions

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Biden administration's homelessness policy shift could leave over 117,000 people at risk of eviction.
HUD spokesperson Matthew J. Maley says the housing-first approach is failing, prompting a move from permanent housing to temporary shelters.
Advocates Shawn Pleasants and Jonathan Russell contend housing-first is effective and cost-efficient, addressing root causes of homelessness.
Critics warn the policies may worsen homelessness, and funding uncertainty leaves many jurisdictions facing unresolved issues.

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Story summary

The Biden administration's homelessness policy shift could leave over 117,000 people at risk of eviction.
HUD spokesperson Matthew J. Maley says the housing-first approach is failing, prompting a move from permanent housing to temporary shelters.
Advocates Shawn Pleasants and Jonathan Russell contend housing-first is effective and cost-efficient, addressing root causes of homelessness.
Critics warn the policies may worsen homelessness, and funding uncertainty leaves many jurisdictions facing unresolved issues.