Written by: Internal Analysis & Opinion Writers
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced a sweeping new policy requiring that all agency business be conducted solely in English. The directive follows an executive order signed by President Trump earlier this year declaring English the official language of the United States.
According to a memo sent by HUD Deputy Secretary Andrew Hughes, the goal is for HUD to “speak with one voice and one language” in all of its communications, including publications, internal operations, and interactions with the public. Hughes stated that the move would help the agency operate more efficiently and consistently while advancing its mission to support low-income families and increase access to affordable housing.
Under the policy, all HUD documents, websites, public notices, and in-person assistance must be provided only in English. HUD is also beginning the process of removing translated materials from its website and field offices, and is reviewing contracts with language service providers to identify potential reductions or cancellations.
While the policy establishes English as the exclusive language of HUD’s official business, it does include certain exceptions required under federal law. The agency confirmed that it will continue to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Violence Against Women Act, and other statutes that mandate accessibility accommodations, including sign language and large-print materials for individuals with communication-related disabilities.
The shift marks a significant departure from previous HUD practices. In the past, the department offered multilingual resources in more than 200 languages and maintained a language assistance hotline to serve individuals with limited English proficiency. Those services are now being scaled back or eliminated under the new policy framework.
Supporters of the move argue that a streamlined, English-only approach will help cut costs, reduce errors caused by translation inconsistencies, and promote better transparency. HUD officials also noted that internal training and compliance efforts will be simplified by eliminating the need to produce multiple versions of materials.
However, critics warn that the policy could create barriers for millions of renters, homeowners, and housing assistance applicants who rely on translated information to understand their rights and navigate the agency’s complex programs. Advocacy groups have expressed concern that limiting language access could disproportionately harm immigrant and refugee communities, many of whom already face housing insecurity.
The executive order driving the change emphasizes national unity and the importance of a shared language in government functions. It grants agencies discretion in how they implement the mandate, though it encourages them to phase out non-English services unless explicitly required by law.
HUD officials said they will offer a public comment period in the coming months to collect feedback on the impact of the change and identify areas where additional guidance may be needed. In the meantime, the department is continuing to assess how the policy will affect state and local partners who rely on HUD funding and support.
Legal experts say that while the policy is likely to face court challenges, its compliance with existing civil rights protections could make it difficult to overturn unless it is shown to intentionally discriminate or deny meaningful access to critical services.
As the transition begins, housing counselors, nonprofit partners, and local government agencies are adjusting to the new requirements. Some are seeking alternative funding to provide language support independently, while others are exploring technology solutions to bridge communication gaps with non-English-speaking clients.
The move is expected to be closely watched by other federal agencies and could serve as a model—or a warning—depending on its outcomes. Whether the English-only directive improves operational clarity or erodes public access will likely depend on how HUD balances efficiency with inclusivity in the months ahead.
