H.R.2206 - Prevent Homelessness Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2206, the Prevent Homelessness Act of 2025, aims to establish a Housing Stabilization Fund within the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The fund will provide emergency housing assistance to extremely low-income renters and homeowners. The bill authorizes appropriations of $100 million annually from 2027 through 2031 to support these efforts.
The fund will operate through grants to continua of care, which are local or regional bodies that coordinate homeless services. These grants will support short-term assistance programs designed to prevent homelessness by helping families meet housing-related obligations.
The bill outlines specific requirements for emergency housing assistance programs, including coordination with local homeless prioritization criteria and limitations on the duration and amount of assistance provided.
Expected Effects
The bill is likely to reduce homelessness among extremely low-income families and very low-income families by providing them with emergency financial assistance to meet housing-related obligations. This could lead to greater housing stability and reduce the strain on social services.
The establishment of the Housing Stabilization Fund would create a dedicated funding stream for homelessness prevention efforts. This would allow for more consistent and targeted support for at-risk families.
The bill's emphasis on coordination with local homeless prioritization criteria could improve the efficiency and effectiveness of homelessness prevention efforts.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced homelessness among vulnerable populations.
- Increased housing stability for low-income families.
- Improved coordination of homeless services.
- Targeted assistance to those most in need.
- Potential reduction in the strain on social services.
Potential Disadvantages
- The program's effectiveness depends on the efficient administration by HUD and the continua of care.
- The authorized funding may be insufficient to meet the needs of all eligible families.
- The program may create dependency if not properly managed.
- There are limitations on the duration of assistance, which may not be sufficient for some families.
- The bill relies on appropriations acts, meaning funding is not guaranteed.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It promotes the general welfare by attempting to prevent homelessness and stabilize housing for vulnerable populations.
Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8). This bill falls under that power, as it authorizes appropriations for a specific purpose.
There are no apparent conflicts with individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).