We have the chance to tell OTDA if we think the shelter allowance (the portion of the cash assistance grant that is supposed to cover rent) should be changed through the administrative rule review process – and that time is now! We can raise our voices to ask for the shelter allowance to be changed to reflect the cost of housing. OTDA sets the shelter allowance in a rule. By law, that rule must have a “reasoned justification.” It can’t be “irrational and arbitrary.” OTDA last changed the shelter allowance in 2003. Every five years, OTDA is required by law to review that rule to see if it should stay the same, or if the rule should be modified. OTDA is required to give the public the opportunity to comment on the rule. And OTDA must consider the public comments it receives when it reviews the rule. In the past, almost no one has ever commented on the shelter allowance rule when it came up for review.
The good news is that OTDA is reviewing the shelter allowance rule and we can comment on it until April 28, 2023. It is important to tell OTDA that the shelter allowance makes it impossible to find housing for so little money, that the low shelter allowance makes it difficult to care for children in a stable, safe environment and that it causes homelessness, frequent moves, evictions and poor housing quality.
A template for your letter is attached for you to use if you so choose.
Comments can be sent by email to: thomas.makely@otda.ny.gov