California Increases Homelessness Funding with Stricter Accountability Measures

Governor Gavin Newsom announces nearly $1 billion in funding and unveils a new transparency tool to track local progress in addressing homelessness.

Governor Gavin Newsom has made $920 million in funding available to combat homelessness, including $760 million through the sixth round of the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) program.
A new website, accountability.ca.gov, allows the public to monitor local governments' progress in reducing homelessness, building housing, and meeting state compliance standards.
Local jurisdictions must meet stricter benchmarks, such as encampment cleanups and permanent housing development, to access and retain state funding, with potential penalties for non-compliance.
Newsom emphasized the need for faster results, highlighting that California's homelessness grew by only 3% in 2024, compared to an 18% national increase, though public frustration remains high.
Critics argue that state-imposed bureaucratic hurdles hinder local governments' ability to address homelessness effectively, calling for more collaboration and long-term investment.