HUD Secretary Scott Turner has been at the center of several significant developments in recent days, reflecting a shift in the department's policies and priorities.
One of the most notable actions taken by Secretary Turner is the termination of the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule, a move that has garnered both support and criticism. Announced in late February, this decision eliminates the requirement for localities to complete extensive paperwork and comply with federal mandates related to fair housing. According to Turner, this move cuts "costly red tape" and returns decision-making power on zoning, home building, and transportation to local and state governments. The aim is to promote market-driven development and allow communities to flourish without the burdens of federal compliance[2].
In addition to the AFFH rule, Secretary Turner has also made headlines for his stance on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) criteria. On March 11, 2025, Turner denounced the inclusion of DEI criteria in Asheville’s draft disaster plan, aligning with his broader stance against what he sees as overly restrictive federal mandates. This move is part of a larger effort to reduce federal oversight and allow localities more autonomy in their decision-making processes[1].
Another contentious issue involves the suspension of enforcement actions related to HUD’s 2016 Equal Access Rule, which ensured equal access to community planning and development programs based on an individual’s gender identity. Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA) has strongly condemned this decision, arguing that it discriminates against LGBTQ individuals and could exacerbate homelessness among marginalized populations. Waters emphasized the critical need for these protections, especially given the high rates of homelessness among LGBTQ+ individuals[3].
Secretary Turner has also faced criticism for planned staffing reductions at HUD. U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) has expressed deep concerns about the Trump Administration’s plans to cut HUD staffing levels by 50%, which could severely impact the agency’s ability to provide affordable and accessible housing. Blumenthal argued that these cuts would disrupt housing markets, make homes less affordable, and deepen the housing crisis, particularly affecting seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families[4].
Despite these controversies, Secretary Turner has continued to engage in public outreach and advocacy for his policies. On March 14, 2025, he visited North Carolinians impacted by Hurricane Helene, and he has appeared on various media outlets, including Fox Business Network’s ‘Kudlow’, to discuss his vision for reducing federal intervention in local housing decisions[1].
These recent actions and decisions underscore a significant shift in HUD's approach under Secretary Turner, emphasizing local control, reduced federal oversight, and a reevaluation of existing housing policies. While these changes have been met with both support and opposition, they reflect a clear direction in the department's strategy moving forward.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
