written by Ruth Schwartz, Executive Director
On Wednesday, I had the privilege of participating in the California State Assembly Select Committee on Homelessness’ Los Angeles hearing. Eight legislative leaders were present, including Speaker John Perez (Los Angeles). Speakers from Los Angeles were asked by Chairperson Toni Atkins (San Diego) to present three proposals that the State could implement—with the proviso that these proposals should not cost the State any money. Based on these hearings and other input she receives, Assemblywoman Atkins’ intent is to develop a legislative packet on homelessness.
The third of four hearings, this meeting was focused on homeless families, women and youth. The major overriding theme that nearly all speakers addressed was the need for a source of financing for permanent, supportive housing for people with disabilities experiencing homelessness. Another theme was advocacy for the creation of the California Interagency Council on Homelessness modeled after the National Council.
For me, it was all a bit surrealistic to have the hearing at this time, given the dire financial strait that California is navigating and the recent actions that the State Legislature has taken. This includes the 8% grant cut to individuals on TANF, bringing the grant to the lowest real grant level in 20 years. Additionally, SSI/SSDI payments to an individual on disability were cut to the lowest level allowed by Federal law. These two actions alone will result in more homelessness in our communities.
The State budget crisis, combined with the current irreconcilable
National debate on raising the national debt ceiling, do not portend well for poor households, let alone those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. But it’s good news that some of our State leaders care and we keep trying!