On November 17, 2025, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) signed a data-sharing agreement in March of this year, allowing them to share information on government-subsidized housing residents, sparking concerns among government building tenants. To help residents understand the policies and their rights, several organizations held a housing and immigration rights seminar on November 15. Legal experts emphasized that the policies have not been implemented yet, and there have been no reported cases of tenants being evicted due to the agreement, but residents should remain vigilant and actively safeguard their rights.
Currently, under federal regulations, as long as at least one person in a household has legal status (such as citizenship, green card, or asylum), they are considered a “Mixed-Status Family” and can lawfully apply for or reside in public housing. However, Anna Luft, the director of the Public Housing Justice Project at the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG), pointed out that HUD is considering eliminating this rule, which could affect many families with undocumented members. The proposal is currently being “revised for resubmission.”
Luft mentioned that while the HUD-DHS agreement has raised concerns, there have been no cases of tenants being evicted due to data sharing. Even if enforcement of the policy tightens in the future, immigration authorities cannot directly raid homes; formal notices, hearings, and decisions from housing courts are necessary. She reminded New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) residents that they have support from resident associations and legal teams, while Section 8 tenants should actively seek external legal assistance. Luft emphasized the importance of responding to any government correspondence and not ignoring it. For inquiries, individuals can contact NYLAG at [email protected] or 212-946-0353.
Immigration lawyer Edward Cuccia expressed that the current enforcement period is the most severe he has seen in his 35 years of practice. Enforcement has expanded from targeting those with deportation orders to “anyone, anytime.” He advised the public that ICE cannot enter a home without a judicial warrant, individuals can be arrested on the street but not in their homes without a search warrant, and evasion of immigration court appearances can lead to easier arrest. It is possible to request online hearings to reduce the risk of arrest, and individuals arrested can apply for a writ of habeas corpus for a fee of $5, with the assistance of a lawyer.
Community leader Yu Jinshan pointed out that immigration enforcement has surpassed its original focus on “criminal undocumented immigrants” and now affects legal immigrants and naturalized citizens. He criticized the current practices for spreading fear, stating that policies now target all immigrants and can even revoke citizenship, which he deemed highly dangerous. Jinshan stressed that the United States remains a country of rule of law, and even in rigorous enforcement circumstances, immigrants have the right to request habeas corpus relief and involve federal courts.
State Assemblywoman Grace Lee remarked, “This is a challenging time, but it is also a time when we must support each other. We need to ensure that residents have access to accurate information, legal resources, and assistance to safeguard their safety.” She urged residents to remain vigilant, support each other, and actively educate themselves about their rights, stating, “We must all stand up to keep the community confident and ensure that every resident can face challenges safely and securely.”
Representative Daniel Goldman stated that his office can assist with immigration and federal matters related to NYCHA, recommending that individuals sign privacy authorizations in advance for prompt intervention if detained. Appointments can be made by calling either office (Manhattan: 212-822-7878 or Brooklyn: 718-312-7575) or by submitting a case request through the website (@RepDanGoldman or goldman.house.gov).
In conclusion of the seminar, the organizers called on residents to unite, help each other, and build self-rescue capabilities: “Know the law, safeguard your rights, and do not give up easily.”