Bronx Congress members, Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), have introduced what has been described as critical new legislation to protect housing insecure migrants and individuals. H.R.9210 aims to waive certain requirements for Community Development Block Grant amounts, used for public service activities to prevent, prepare for, and respond to homelessness and emergency rental assistance needs.

 

In the context of the bill’s introduction, the representatives said, “Our bill will eliminate the 15 percent cap on housing public services, as stipulated in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and extend CDBG emergency grant payments from three to six months.” They added, “These changes will alleviate pressure on municipalities dealing with the homelessness crisis and provide tens of thousands of underprivileged people with the benefits they deserve to live a healthy and safe existence, all while encouraging self-sufficiency.”

 

According to Espaillat’s office, the cap on public services allows only a small fraction of money to be spent on vital resources such as shelter. In addition, emergency grant payments are currently only disbursed to individuals and families for up to three consecutive months.

 

Officials for Espaillat said such payments cover rent, utility, and mortgage bills, providing those in need with a lifeline in times of crisis. They said three months is often not enough, however, as residents in danger of eviction need timely support to get on their feet and cover food, education, transportation, and other life-sustaining costs.

 

They said for asylum seekers awaiting work permits, extending the time period will afford immigrant families access to shelter in the interim, a human right which they said is recognized by the United Nations International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights.

Meanwhile, the congresswoman is encouraging people to sign up or enhance their health coverage in 2023. “This year, because of the Inflation Reduction Act, Americans can continue to get more help with their premiums, and save an average of $800 per year and $2,400 per family,” she wrote on Twitter on Nov. 22. “Sign up now through December 15th.” Applicants can sign up here.

 

Ocasio-Cortez also reminded students that the Biden administration is extending the pause on federal student loan repayments to allow for the Supreme Court to rule in the case on the student debt relief program. The pause will end no later than June 30, 2023, according to The White House. Payments will resume 60 days after the pause ends.