HUD Proposes Ban on Housing Aid for Mixed-Status Families

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposed a rule on February 19, 2026, to limit federal housing assistance to U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens. The measure targets mixed-status households—families containing both eligible and undocumented members—who currently receive prorated benefits. The new regulation would require all residents, including those over 62, to provide proof of citizenship or eligible status, effectively barring mixed-status families from receiving aid and requiring local housing authorities to report ineligible tenants to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

HUD Secretary Scott Turner stated the rule aims to close "decades-old loopholes" and prevent "fraudsters gaming the system." The agency estimates approximately 24,000 undocumented individuals currently benefit from this assistance, while a joint audit with the Department of Homeland Security identified nearly 200,000 tenants with incomplete eligibility verification. The proposal aligns with priorities in Project 2025 and mirrors a similar 2019 attempt by the Trump administration.

Housing advocates and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities warn the rule could trigger mass evictions. Estimates suggest between 80,000 and 100,000 people, including up to 37,000 U.S. citizen children, could lose their homes. Critics argue the policy will increase homelessness, particularly in California, which houses 36% of the affected families. The proposal is open for a 60-day public comment period starting February 21, 2026.