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Housing advocates urge restoration of eviction‑prevention funds as DHCD highlights energy and broadband investments
Summary
At a Feb. 12 hearing the legislature reviewed the Department of Housing and Community Development's FY26 budget, heard concerns from advocates about a proposed $5 million reduction in unrestricted eviction prevention funds, and discussed increases to energy programs (Empower Maryland), broadband and Main Street support.
The Health and Social Services Subcommittee heard the Department of Housing and Community Development's fiscal 2026 operating budget on Feb. 12. Department of Legislative Services analyst Scott Benson presented an overview showing a $42.0 million (8.1%) increase in DHCD’s operating allowance to $558.6 million and highlighted changes in energy, rental assistance and broadband funding.
Eviction prevention and homelessness funding drew the most public testimony. DLS noted that homelessness in Maryland increased 3% between January 2023 and January 2024 to 6,059 people, while remaining below national levels compared to pre‑pandemic trends. The Homelessness Solutions Program (HSP) fiscal 2026 allowance includes about $19.1 million in general funds; DLS observed that flat funding when homelessness and rents are rising effectively functions as a cut.
Advocates urged restoring $5 million that DHCD’s proposed FY26 plan removes from unrestricted eviction…
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