I am a resident of Martin Manor, a community where I have lived for several years, gaining a profound understanding of the impact that housing policies have on individuals and families. The Project-Based Voucher (PBV) assistance I receive is invaluable, allowing me to afford stable housing and maintain a sense of security. However, despite my deep-seated involvement and insights, I am currently ineligible to serve as a resident commissioner due to restrictive HUD regulations.

Currently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations unjustly exclude residents receiving Project-Based Voucher assistance from eligibility for the federally mandated resident commissioner position on housing agency boards. This exclusion silences a significant portion of the population who are directly affected by housing decisions. As someone who has served as a resident commissioner before, I can attest that residents' voices are crucial in shaping policies that directly affect our daily lives and well-being.

The intent of including resident commissioners is to ensure that housing agency boards reflect the diverse perspectives of those they serve. This cannot truly happen if PBV residents, who form a significant part of the housing community, are left out. They have firsthand experience and a unique understanding of how policies can affect the community and its residents' livelihoods.

In order to improve the representation and decision-making of housing agencies across the nation, it is imperative that HUD amend its rules to make PBV residents eligible for consideration as resident commissioners. This change would allow qualified individuals like myself to collaborate on housing strategies and advocate effectively for our communities. By doing so, they can help ensure that the needs of all residents are met and that housing policies remain fair and inclusive.

Please join me in urging HUD to revise their regulations and allow PBV residents the opportunity to serve as resident commissioners. Your support is essential to give a voice to those who have been silenced for too long and to benefit the entire community with better, more inclusive housing policies. Sign this petition to help ensure that every voice in our community is heard and valued.