HUD Takes Action to Support Housing Access for People with Disabilities

In the wake of recent milestones in disability rights, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has introduced new guidelines to improve housing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. 

These changes are designed to help local agencies utilize Mainstream Vouchers. This critical federal program prevents individuals with disabilities from living in isolated or institutional settings.

Acting HUD Secretary Adrianne Todman emphasized the importance of affordable and accessible housing in line with the objectives outlined in the Supreme Court's decision in Olmstead v. L.C., which supports the rights of individuals with disabilities to live within their communities. The newly introduced actions aim to provide greater flexibility in meeting the housing needs of this demographic.

Mainstream Vouchers offer rental funding to non-elderly individuals with disabilities who wish to transition out of institutions or who are at risk of homelessness. Under the current administration, HUD has allocated over 20,000 new vouchers, enhancing support for individuals through local housing agencies.

According to HUD official Rich Monocchio, vouchers improve community accessibility and diversity. These recent changes are intended to enhance the program's effectiveness in assisting more individuals with disabilities in finding housing that aligns with their preferences and personal circumstances.

The updated guidelines include the following provisions:
 

• Individuals searching for housing will have a minimum of 120 days to find a suitable place before requesting an extension.
• Housing agencies must approve all initial requests for additional search time.
• No preference will be given to local residents when considering Mainstream Voucher applicants, eliminating the need for applicants to be from the area to qualify.

Housing agencies are encouraged to collaborate closely with independent living centers and other local organizations to aid individuals with disabilities in their housing search.

These changes were prompted by a recent HUD study, which revealed significant barriers in the housing search process for non-elderly individuals with disabilities, including challenges in accessing necessary services and reasonable accommodations.

Since the inception of the Mainstream Voucher Program in 1997, HUD has allocated more than $500 million to assist over 71,000 individuals through vouchers.

Please visit HUD's website for further information about the Mainstream Voucher Program.

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