The Trump admin aims to slash federal rental aid by nearly half and shift distribution to states. Experts warn this could spike homelessness and destabilize communities nationwide.
In “What Happens if Trump Kills Section 8?,” Shelterforce explores the devastating implications of the Trump administration’s FY 2026 budget proposal to nearly eliminate HUD's rental assistance programs — cutting funding for Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs), Section 8, public housing, and supportive housing by 43 percent, and consolidating them into an underfunded, block-granted lump sum.
The article recounts Althea Matthews’ struggle — who lost her NYC home, then found an EHV, and now faces losing it again — highlighting how this proposed budget threatens housing stability for millions, especially seniors, people with disabilities, and extremely low-income families. Officials warn the cuts could lead to homelessness surges, bankrupt public housing authorities, and dismantle support systems that have been painstakingly built. The piece underscores that, while block grants are pitched as efficient, in reality they strip accountability and equity, putting vulnerable renters at grave risk.
FULL STORY: What Happens if Trump Kills Section 8?
Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.
Spokane Mayor Introduces Housing Reforms Package
Mayor Lisa Brown’s proposals include deferring or waiving some development fees to encourage more affordable housing development.
Adaptive Reuse Will Create Housing in a Suburban Texas Strip Mall
A developer is reimagining a strip mall property as a mixed-use complex with housing and retail.
Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?
King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.
Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.
Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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