Reading Housing Authority (RHA) invites community partners, human service providers, local government officials, housing advocates, and other interested stakeholders to participate in one of two upcoming conversations regarding potential changes to the Public Housing program.
As part of the agency’s annual planning process, RHA is evaluating whether to adopt work requirements and/or time limits for Public Housing residents if HUD’s proposed rule, Establishing Flexibility for Implementation of Work Requirements and Term Limits, is finalized. No decision has been made. Before determining whether these policies are appropriate for Reading, RHA is seeking thoughtful input from those who work alongside individuals and families facing housing instability and barriers to self-sufficiency.
It is important to note that any policy adopted by Reading Housing Authority would be consistent with HUD regulations and would not apply to elderly residents, persons with disabilities, or other households that qualify for exemptions under the proposed rule. Recognizing that current residents could be most immediately affected by any future policy changes, RHA is also seeking input through the agency’s resident associations and Citywide Resident Council to ensure their perspectives are fully considered alongside those of community stakeholders.
At the heart of this discussion is a difficult but important question: How can limited public housing resources best serve both current residents and the many individuals and families who remain in need of stable housing? Supporters of work requirements and time limits believe these policies may encourage greater economic independence for households that are able to work, help some families transition to housing outside of the public housing program, and ultimately create housing opportunities for additional households in need.
Others have raised important questions about implementation, fairness, and the availability of employment, supportive services, and alternative housing options. RHA is committed to carefully considering these perspectives before reaching any conclusion.
In addition to community feedback, RHA must also determine whether any such program could be administered effectively with existing staffing and financial resources while continuing to meet its obligations to residents.
Community conversations will provide an opportunity to learn more about the proposed HUD rule, ask questions, share perspectives, and help inform RHA’s decision-making process. Stakeholder participation is encouraged, and all viewpoints are welcome.
Community Conversation #1: Thursday, August 20, 2026, 3pm, Oakbrook Neighborhood Resource Center (1001 Scott Street, Reading PA 19611)
Community Conversation #2: Monday, August 24, 2026, 5pm, Oakbrook Neighborhood Resource Center (1001 Scott Street, Reading PA 19611)
