A Shift from Longstanding Proration Policy (Image Credits: Unsplash)
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development unveiled a proposed rule that could force thousands of families from subsidized housing units across the country.[1][2]
A Shift from Longstanding Proration Policy
HUD officials announced the measure on February 19, 2026, aiming to bar undocumented immigrants from residing in federally assisted properties.[1] Under existing regulations, mixed-status households – those with both eligible citizens or legal residents and undocumented members – qualified for prorated rental assistance based solely on eligible individuals.[3] Undocumented family members received no subsidy and contributed their full share of rent.
The new approach would terminate aid entirely for such households unless the ineligible members depart, with local housing authorities required to report them to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.[2] Secretary Scott Turner described the change as ending exploitation of “decades-old loopholes.”[2] Proponents argued it prioritizes American citizens amid waitlists stretching years in many areas.[1]
Scale of Potential Disruption
Analyses estimated nearly 80,000 individuals across more than 20,000 households could lose assistance, including over 52,000 U.S. citizens and roughly 37,000 children born in the country.[3][1] The policy would affect major programs such as Housing Choice Vouchers, public housing, and Section 8 project-based rental assistance.
California, Texas, and New York would bear the heaviest burdens, representing nearly three-quarters of impacted mixed-status families.[3] HUD projected the rule could redirect $218 million in federal funds toward fully eligible tenants.[2]
| Group | Number Affected |
|---|---|
| U.S. Citizens | 52,600 |
| Eligible Non-Citizens | 2,600 |
| Ineligible Non-Citizens | 24,300 |
| Total | 79,600 |
Demographics highlighted vulnerability: 96 percent people of color, 46 percent children, and significant shares of women, girls, and those with disabilities.[3]
Family Stories Underscore the Stakes
Residents in cities like Los Angeles expressed dread over potential separations. One public housing occupant, married to a U.S. citizen with children including a DACA recipient, worried about uprooting American-born kids to Mexico.[1] Another family, facing job losses from immigration enforcement and home repairs after damage, relied on aid for stability amid health challenges in their children.
Advocates warned of broader fallout, including heightened homelessness risks during a national shelter crisis. Shamus Roller of the National Housing Law Project called the proposal unlawful and aimed at instilling fear in immigrant communities.[1] Marie Claire Tran-Leung noted that mixed families already pay more, freeing units for others.[1]
History and Path Forward
The Trump administration first floated a similar measure late in its initial term, but the Biden era rescinded it after strong opposition, including 30,000 public comments.[1] Groups now prepare legal challenges anew.
The rule enters the Federal Register on February 20, opening a 60-day comment period. Housing agencies must weigh feedback before finalizing, though enforcement timelines remain unclear.[2]
- Proration ends for mixed households after brief verification window.
- Reporting of ineligible tenants to immigration authorities required.
- Focus on programs serving 4.4 million households nationwide.
- Potential for family splits or full subsidy loss.
- Redirected funds estimated at $218 million annually.
Key Takeaways:
- Nearly 80,000 people, mostly citizens, risk losing homes.
- 37,000 U.S.-born children among those affected.
- Public comments open for 60 days starting February 20.
This proposal pits housing scarcity against immigration priorities, leaving families in limbo. As debates intensify, the true cost to vulnerable Americans hangs in the balance. What do you think about the balance between eligibility rules and family unity? Tell us in the comments.