Congresswoman Norma Torres Urges HUD to Reverse Cuts that Could Impact Inland Empire
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) called on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to reverse proposed staff cuts that would worsen the ongoing housing crisis in the Inland Empire.
“The Inland Empire is in the middle of a housing emergency. Cuts to HUD will slow down affordable housing projects and put more families at risk,” said Congresswoman Torres. “In 2024, homelessness in our region rose by 1.4%, with more than 4,200 individuals and 10,000 students without stable housing. HUD’s role is essential, and I demand they reverse these cuts to ensure our communities get the support they need.”
The Inland Empire is facing a severe affordability crisis, with only 15% of California households able to afford a median-priced home in 2024. Cities like Fontana, Ontario, and Pomona are hit hardest, with many renters paying more than 30% of their income on housing.
Despite HUD’s essential role in supporting affordable housing and community development, the Trump Administration’s proposed budget cuts threaten these efforts. HUD has provided over $54 million for housing, community development, and homelessness assistance in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties, as well as $1.6 million to combat homelessness.
Congresswoman Torres warned that these cuts would jeopardize key projects like the National Core Vista Verde project in Ontario and the Courtplace Housing Development in Fontana, worsening the region’s crisis. She also pointed out that the cuts may be unlawful, referencing the Supreme Court’s Train v. New York ruling and the Impoundment Control Act, which prohibit withholding Congress-approved funds.
The full text of the letter can be found here.
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