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Protect and Expand Federal Housing Programs
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Why It Matters

People with disabilities disproportionately rely on federal housing supports, including vouchers, project-based rental assistance, and disability-specific programs like Section 811. Federal programs often determine whether accessible, affordable homes get built. 

Without increased federal investment, states and localities rarely fill the gap, which leaves disabled people at risk of homelessness, unnecessary institutionalization, or housing that does not meet accessibility needs. Additionally, cuts or policy changes can threaten the stability of people already living in subsidized housing.

Our Advocacy Focus

  • Increase and Strengthen HUD Section 811 Housing for People with Disabilities: Section 811 is one of the only federal programs specifically designed to create integrated housing for people with disabilities. We support expanding funding and improving program implementation. 
  • Expand Housing Choice Vouchers & Reduce Wait Times: Millions remain on waiting lists for years. We push for more voucher funding and streamlined processes so people with disabilities can access housing quickly. This includes a specific emphasis on the Mainstream Housing Voucher and Non-Elderly Disabled Voucher programs. 
  • Advance Housing Policies that Support Community Integration: We lead housing reform that upholds the Lois Curtis v. Olmstead Supreme Court Decision’s mandate for community integration. For example, we partner with Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) policy leaders to ensure that there are aligned housing policies to support people to receive services (HCBS) in their own homes. We provide policy guidance to expand options for community-based housing where people with and without disabilities live as neighbors, regardless of the level of in-home support they need. 
  • Strengthen Fair and Equal Housing Opportunities: We advocate for strong enforcement of the Fair Housing Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

How Advocates Can Take Action

  • Contact your members of Congress and urge them to fully fund HUD and key housing programs.
  • Participate in public comment opportunities on federal housing rules and funding.
  • Share stories about how federal housing programs impact your life or community.