Young people should not have to choose between accessing affordable housing and completing a full-time college education.
The Housing for Homeless Students Act (H.R.7278 under the 118th Congress) is a no-cost legislation that will allow full-time college students who are experiencing or have experienced homelessness to qualify for affordable housing built with the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit.
Full-time college students are not eligible to live in LIHTC rental housing, known as LIHTC’s “student rule.” There are exceptions made for certain student groups, including former foster youth, but full-time students who are or have experienced homelessness are not exempt. HHSA will simply add students who have experienced homelessness before the age of 26 to the existing list of LIHTC full-time student exceptions.
Jobs that offer a livable wage are increasingly requiring at least some postsecondary education, and securing a job with a livable wage increases long-term economic and housing stability. Supporting young people in completing their postsecondary education is essential to breaking the cycles of poverty and homelessness.
