Bill > B26-0366

This bill amends the Homeless Services Reform Act to establish the Flexible Rent Subsidy Program as a permanent initiative designed to help individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness achieve housing stability. The program will provide annual subsidies to eligible participants, with different subsidy amounts for individuals and families. To be initially eligible, participants must be District residents with annual incomes at or below 40% of the Median Family Income, have the potential to grow income, and either be homeless, at risk of homelessness, or have previously applied for emergency housing assistance. To maintain eligibility, participants must recertify annually and have incomes at or below 60% of the Median Family Income. The bill specifies that participants cannot simultaneously receive other ongoing rental assistance, sets minimum subsidy amounts (ranging from $8,280 to $11,300 depending on the year), and allows the Mayor to establish program rules including time limits of at least five years. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing participants to potentially receive other shelter or rental assistance before, during, or after their program participation, with the ultimate goal of preventing and reducing homelessness in the District of Columbia.

Health and Social Services

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0366