Capitol Connect

Across the political spectrum, most Americans believe that young people should have the chance to complete their education if they are willing to study hard. But one well-meaning federal housing policy is forcing formerly homeless youth to choose between an education and keeping a roof over their heads.

Earlier this week, Governor Dayton released his proposal for bonding for this upcoming legislative session. Within the full $775 million proposal he put forth is $32 million for housing. This proposal is a major boon for housing, and includes much - but not all - that advocates asked for.

On December 1, advocates got an unexpected surprise when Minnesota's November 2011 forecast revealed an $876 million surplus for the current biennium. What does this collective good news for Minnesota mean for housing?

The final version of HUD's 2012 budget emerged from conference committee this week, hammering pivotal housing programs such as public housing, CDBG, and HOME. The Sustainable Communities Initiative, which has enabled HUD to collaborate with the nation's environmental, transportation and energy departments, was killed entirely. While this budget is indeed a bitter pill, housing advocates can take solace in the fact that homeless programs and Section 8 were protected from cuts.