The United States Interagency Council on Homelessness, a tiny agency responsible for coordinating homelessness policy across the federal government, has been effectively shut down, with all its staff placed on administrative leave. Established in 1987 to ensure a coordinated and efficient federal response to homelessness, the agency had fewer than 20 employees and a budget slightly over $4 million. Despite being authorized until 2028, President Trump, in an executive order focused on reducing federal bureaucracy, included the agency for downsizing.

Under the leadership of its recent executive director, the agency played a crucial role in helping cities manage the surge in homelessness, particularly focusing on reducing unsheltered homelessness in various communities. Additionally, it spearheaded efforts to significantly decrease veteran homelessness over the past decade. However, the Trump administration plans to shift homelessness policy drastically, moving away from the longstanding bipartisan approach of prioritizing housing first.

The move to dismantle the agency is seen as a strategic step to facilitate this policy shift, as it would remove a key advocate for the housing-first approach. Despite objections from Democratic members of Congress and concerns raised by advocacy groups, the future of homelessness policy in the U.S. remains uncertain amidst these changes. The decision to dismantle the agency has sparked debate and raised concerns about the potential impact on efforts to address the rising challenges of housing costs and homelessness across the country.