Arkansas House calls for reforms in federal homelessness policies

In a bold move to reshape homelessness policy, the Arkansas House of Representatives has introduced House Resolution 1109, calling for sweeping changes to federal housing regulations. The resolution, presented on April 4, 2025, urges the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Interagency Council on Homelessness to repeal restrictive rules and grant states greater autonomy in addressing homelessness.

At the heart of HR1109 is a demand for the repeal of the Continuum of Care Interim Rule, which proponents argue stifles local innovation in housing solutions. The resolution also seeks to amend the Homeless Management Information System, aiming to reduce administrative burdens and redirect resources toward direct client services. Notably, it calls for the elimination of HUD's performance standards, allowing local governments to set their own indicators that better reflect community needs.

The resolution's most controversial provision is the push to rescind Housing First mandates, which prioritize permanent housing for the homeless. Supporters of HR1109 argue that this flexibility would enable communities to offer a wider range of housing options tailored to individual needs. Additionally, the bill proposes reducing federal standards in the Emergency Solutions Grant Program and shifting HUD funding to block grants, enhancing local control over resource allocation.

While the resolution has garnered support from some lawmakers who believe it will empower local governments, it faces opposition from advocates who warn that dismantling federal standards could undermine efforts to effectively combat homelessness. Critics argue that the Housing First model has proven successful in reducing homelessness and that removing these mandates could lead to a patchwork of ineffective solutions.

As the bill moves forward, its implications could reshape the landscape of homelessness assistance in Arkansas and potentially influence similar legislative efforts nationwide. The resolution's fate will depend on the response from federal agencies and the broader political climate surrounding housing policy.