Clermont Times

Washington, D.C. - Reps. Brad R. Wenstrup and Danny K. Davis have introduced a bill aimed at increasing affordable housing for homeless students, including homeless youth, veterans, and foster youth. The legislation seeks to improve the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which reduces tax liability for developers who build or rehabilitate affordable rental housing units.

Currently, the LIHTC has a "student rule" that prohibits full-time students from living in LIHTC-funded properties, in order to prevent the building of dorms with LIHTC funds. However, this rule inadvertently excludes students who have experienced or are currently experiencing homelessness and would otherwise qualify for housing. These students are forced to choose between stable housing or pursuing a full-time education.

The Housing for Homeless Students Act, introduced by Reps. Wenstrup and Davis, aims to create a limited exception to the LIHTC student rule. This exception would allow homeless or recently-homeless individuals who are full-time students to live in LIHTC units, providing them with the opportunity to invest in their futures and pursue the American dream.

Rep. Wenstrup emphasizes the importance of this bill, stating, "Students and veterans should never have to choose between pursuing a full-time education and stable housing. This bill helps those in need to invest in their futures and sets them on the path to achieving the American dream." He also expresses his pride in reintroducing this legislation with Rep. Davis, highlighting the bipartisan effort.

Rep. Davis echoes the sentiment, recognizing that housing security is fundamental to physical, mental, and socioeconomic well-being. He states, "I am proud to work with Dr. Wenstrup to improve the successful Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to ensure that youth and veterans struggling with homelessness do not have to choose between completing a college degree or stable housing." He further emphasizes the urgency of this fix, citing research that shows a significant portion of college students, especially those in community colleges, experience housing insecurity.

The Housing for Homeless Students Act has garnered support from various organizations and advocates. The National Network for Youth commends the bill, stating, "The National Network for Youth supports the Housing for Homeless Students Act to ensure that youth and veterans who have experienced homelessness can access affordable housing while pursuing education." They emphasize the importance of education and affordable housing in helping young people reach their full potential and break the cycle of homelessness.

SchoolHouse Connection, another organization dedicated to supporting homeless students, also expresses their support for the legislation. They recognize that education beyond high school is crucial in escaping poverty, but homelessness remains a significant barrier for many young people. They believe that this bill will provide thousands of youth with the stability of housing and open doors to promising futures.

The Housing for Homeless Students Act has received widespread support from over two dozen youth and family advocates, including organizations such as Alliance for a Just Society, Child Welfare League of America, and the National Coalition for the Homeless. These advocates recognize the importance of providing housing opportunities and stability for homeless youth and veterans, enabling them to complete their education and thrive.

In summary, Reps. Wenstrup and Davis have introduced the Housing for Homeless Students Act, which aims to expand housing opportunities for homeless students, including veterans and foster youth, by improving the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. The bill has received support from various organizations and advocates who believe in the power of education and stable housing to transform the lives of young people experiencing homelessness.