The federal Section 8 program, which supports housing for over 2 million low-income families, is facing a two-front crisis—beneficiaries unable to move across state lines and a proposed bill in Congress that could slash funding nationwide. One San Diego woman’s story reveals what’s at stake.
“I’ve followed every rule for 20 years—now I’m stuck.”
Angela Rivera, 54, has used a federal Housing Choice Voucher since 2001. But when she recently tried to move from San Diego to Massachusetts to be closer to her family, the system failed her.
“I did everything by the book,” Rivera told FingerLakes1.com in an exclusive interview. “But now I’m told I can’t move—because both housing authorities are out of money.”
Rivera submitted a portability request in March, hoping to transfer her voucher from California to Massachusetts. But local housing authorities in the Boston and Worcester areas declined to accept it, citing over-allocation. The San Diego Housing Commission also refused to fund the voucher outside its region.
“They said they’re prioritizing local needs,” she said. “So I’m blocked. I’m trapped.”
Her case is not unique—and comes as Congress debates sweeping changes to the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) budget.
Congress weighs bill that could dramatically reduce Section 8 funding
H.R.1, the proposed federal budget bill for FY2026, includes deep restructuring of HUD funding. The legislation would:
- Eliminate mandatory funding growth for Housing Choice Vouchers
- Replace part of Section 8 with state block grants, which critics argue would lead to major inequities
- Freeze new voucher allocations unless approved through separate legislation
Housing advocates say the bill could cut assistance for tens of thousands of families if enacted.
“This is a moment of real danger for the program,” one housing policy analyst said off the record. “The Rivera case shows what happens when local agencies are stretched—and this bill would stretch them further.”
What is “portability”—and why it’s broken
Section 8 was designed to allow low-income families to move anywhere in the country where housing is available. This flexibility, called portability, is a cornerstone of the program.
But Rivera’s case shows the design isn’t working.
When a recipient moves, their current housing agency can either continue paying the subsidy or ask the new agency to “absorb” the voucher. In today’s tight budgets, many agencies simply say no.
“I was told unofficially, ‘It’s better if you don’t try to move right now,’” Rivera said. “That was heartbreaking.”
Portability failures are rising across the country, especially in high-cost states like California and Massachusetts. As agencies struggle to cover costs, out-of-region transfers have quietly become unworkable for thousands of voucher holders.
Who is at risk?
Section 8 serves over 2.2 million households, mostly older people, those with disabilities, and low-income families. More than 7.4 million Americans receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), many of whom also rely on housing subsidies.
The proposed legislation and tightening local budgets could result in:
- Longer waitlists (some already 5–10 years long)
- Inability to move even for valid reasons like family, jobs, or caregiving
- Increased homelessness in cases where rent outpaces voucher support
“I’m paying 40% of my income on rent—almost as much as before I had the voucher,” Rivera said. “This isn’t sustainable.”
A national crisis unfolding quietly
The current debate in Washington is not just about dollars—it’s about mobility, dignity, and stability.
Rivera’s experience highlights the broader stakes: “If we can’t move to be with our families, if we’re stuck in cities we can no longer afford, what kind of choice is that?”
As more recipients face portability denials and rent burdens grow, the quiet breakdown of the voucher system could become a housing crisis in plain sight.
What’s next?
The proposed federal bill (H.R.1) is expected to reach committee markup in early June. Advocates are urging the public to contact their representatives before decisions are finalized.
Meanwhile, Rivera waits.
“My rent is going up again in September,” she said. “If the payment standard doesn’t rise, I don’t know what I’ll do. I’m not technically homeless—but I’m not stable either.”
How you can help or get involved
- Contact your member of Congress about protecting Section 8 and HUD funding
- Share your story if you’ve experienced voucher portability issues
- Support local housing organizations advocating for policy reform