Rep. Watson Coleman Introduces Bill to Address Youth Homelessness and Housing Instability

Washington, DC (March 27, 2025) – Today, Representative Watson Coleman introduced the Homes for Young Adults Act which aims to increase eligibility and access to Housing Choice Vouchers, specifically for young people. Additionally, Representative Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) introduced the Youth Homelessness Guaranteed Income Pilot Program Act which aims to address youth homelessness by providing direct cash assistance to emancipated minors and young adults under 30 years old experiencing homelessness.

The Homes for Young Adults Act creates a new entitlement under Section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 and the House Choice Voucher program. This aims to increase accessibility and eligibility for young adults and vulnerable communities through:

• Providing assistance under section 8(o) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 for each qualified individual, as well as cover administrative fees in connection with each voucher for assistance provided, while centering the choice of the voucher holder;
• Expanding the definition of young adults to include those who may be single or parenting between the ages of 18-30, respectively, as well as those aging out of foster care or other youth-serving systems and unaccompanied minors, under applicable state law; and
• Establishing an allowance for an Ombudsman to mediate between a landlord and a tenant should discriminatory issues arise.

“Young Americans cannot continue to be failed by systems that leave them homeless,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “Both of these bills are necessary to ensure that young adults and vulnerable communities get the assistance they need to properly start their future. No one should suffer homelessness or housing instability in the stage of starting their lives. I strongly encourage the House to pass these bills to secure the success and stability of the next generation.”

“Housing vouchers for youth in our nation eliminate barriers that often hinder access to resources, enabling young individuals to concentrate on their goals and aspirations,” said Marcella Middleton (she/her), CEO with Lived-Expertise at A Way Home America. “As a multifaceted issue, youth homelessness necessitates diverse approaches, and these vouchers, led by youth who have experienced or are experiencing homelessness, play a significant role in addressing the issue, recognizing the expertise of young individuals in their own lives.”

The Homes for Young Adults Act can be read here.