Shapiro joins multistate lawsuit to retain federal money to address homelessness

Shapiro Joins Lawsuit Over Federal Homelessness Funding Cuts

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has joined 20 other states in filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration for reducing federal housing assistance dedicated to combating homelessness. Filed in a federal court this week, the legal action argues that the administration’s cuts to Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs violate federal law and will negatively affect vulnerable communities.

The Core of the Dispute

The lawsuit challenges recent rule changes by HUD that reduce funding for programs aimed at supporting people without stable housing. According to court filings, the administration redirected resources away from housing-first initiatives, prioritizing temporary shelters instead.

Governor Shapiro stated during a press briefing:

“These are real people in need of real help. Cutting this funding turns our backs on families and veterans who rely on these programs to stay off the streets.”

National Collaboration

Attorneys general from 20 states have signed onto the complaint, marking one of several ongoing multistate challenges to policy shifts under the Trump administration. States participating in the case argue that the move undermines established homelessness reduction strategies proven to save both resources and lives.

Impact on Local Communities

Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services warns that without the targeted federal funding, local non-profits and shelters could lose millions of dollars in support. Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh would be forced to scale back homelessness prevention programs that have seen measurable success.

“This lawsuit is about preserving proven solutions, not politics,” Shapiro added. “We’re standing together to make sure those programs remain funded and effective.”

A Broader Legal Context

This case follows a broader trend of state-level lawsuits challenging Trump-era policy adjustments in healthcare, environmental regulation, and housing. The coalition argues that these budgetary decisions overstep administrative authority and conflict with federal anti-discrimination and fair housing statutes.

Author’s summary: Shapiro and 20 state allies are suing the Trump administration for HUD funding cuts, arguing that the changes harm proven anti-homelessness programs and violate federal law.

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90.5 WESA 90.5 WESA — 2025-11-27

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