Moore Opening Statement at Markup of H.R. 7432, the “Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act”

(As prepared for delivery)

Thank you, Mr. Chairman and Ranking Member Neal. 

I want to first start by thanking Chairman LaHood for his partnership on this bill. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention our Ranking Member, and my good friend, Danny Davis, a long-time champion for our foster youth. 

As a co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, I am privileged to be able to fight for foster youth, including meeting youth who have lived experience in the foster care system. 

It’s no secret that many youth who age out of foster care experience homelessness. In fact, research shows that up to 46 percent of youth exiting foster care experience homelessness by age 26. That is thousands of individuals – young people - without a stable and consistent roof over their head. 

This is unacceptable and entirely preventable. 

This bill, the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act, would be a good first step in helping to right this ship. By requiring state child welfare agencies to collaborate with public housing entities that administer programs specifically designed for foster youth, we can begin to bridge the gap in housing services for youth transitioning out of care and reduce homelessness rates amongst former foster youth. 

This bill also exempts “housing supportive services,” such as security deposits and utility connection fees, from the 30 percent housing cap under Chafee. This will allow states the opportunity to provide more youth with rental and housing assistance. 

We know that stable housing is the key to success, safety, and improved health outcomes. Without housing stability, it is nearly impossible to hold stable employment, address physical and mental health concerns, and maintain supportive relationships. 

We owe it to these young people to ensure that they have the tools they need not just to survive, but to thrive in adulthood, and that starts with safe, accessible, and affordable housing. 

Passing this bill is a good first step in ensuring that no former foster youth is left to fend for themselves on the streets, and I hope my colleagues on this committee will join me in this effort. 

Thank you, I yield back. 

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