A federal appeals court ruled in favor of Washington state this week, blocking the Trump administration's attempt to restrict homelessness assistance funding. The decision protects approximately $4. 9 million in annual federal grants that Pierce County uses to support housing programs for vulnerable residents.
Pierce County Executive Ryan Mello called the ruling "a major victory for our community." He said the funding supports "effective policies over ideologically-driven politics" and helps residents "rebuild their lives."
The grants come through the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Continuum of Care program — the largest federal funding source for homelessness assistance. Pierce County uses its share primarily for Permanent Supportive Housing and Rapid Rehousing programs. Washington state receives about $120 million in CoC grants each year, with Pierce County among the five counties identified as having the greatest need.
Washington Attorney General Nick Brown co-led a multistate coalition that sued HUD last November after the agency abruptly changed program rules, cutting available grant funds and adding conditions that included signing statements under penalty of perjury. The appeals court rejected HUD's request to impose those restrictions while the case continues.