On Thursday, April 22, 2021, HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge announced that HUD is withdrawing the previous administration’s proposed rule that would have weakened the Equal Access Rule. The Equal Access Rule ensures that all individuals—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity—have equal access to the Department’s Office of Community Planning and Development (CPD) programs, shelters, other buildings and facilities, benefits, services, and accommodations. Read the full press release on HUD.gov.

Along with this announcement, HUD is releasing technical assistance resources prepared by technical assistance providers to HUD grantees. These resources will support HUD’s CPD grantees in implementing the Equal Access Rule. View the Equal Access technical assistance materials for shelter operators on the HUD Exchange LGBTQ Homelessness page:

• Equal Access for Transgender People: Supporting Inclusive Housing and Shelters
• Equal Access Expectations: Training Scenarios for Use with Project Staff