Abbott Volunteers Texas For New HUD Antifraud Program
January 13, 2026 – Governor Greg Abbott has formally requested that Texas take part in a new federal pilot program aimed at preventing fraud in affordable housing assistance, signaling an expanded push by the state to strengthen oversight of taxpayer-funded programs.
In a letter sent January 12 to U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner, Abbott volunteered Texas to participate in the HUD initiative focused on identifying and eliminating fraud within federal housing programs, particularly those tied to rental-based assistance. The pilot program is designed to improve accountability, prevent misuse of funds, and ensure aid reaches eligible families.
Abbott emphasized that public officials have a responsibility to manage government programs efficiently and protect taxpayer dollars from abuse. He expressed Texas’ willingness to collaborate with HUD on developing and implementing fraud-prevention strategies that improve the integrity of federal housing assistance while maintaining access for those who legitimately qualify.
The request comes amid a broader crackdown on fraud across multiple state-administered programs. Just last week, Abbott directed Texas agencies to investigate potential misuse of child care funding, reinforcing a pattern of heightened scrutiny over public benefit systems.
State officials say participation in the HUD pilot could provide Texas with additional tools to detect improper payments, prevent identity fraud, and close loopholes that allow bad actors to exploit housing assistance programs. Supporters argue that stronger oversight helps preserve funding and public trust while ensuring limited resources are available for families who truly need them.
The initiative also aligns with ongoing efforts to address housing affordability, a growing concern in Texas communities facing rising rents and population growth. By improving program integrity, state leaders say housing assistance dollars can be better targeted and more effective.
HUD has not yet announced which states will be selected for the pilot program or when implementation will begin. If approved, Texas would work closely with federal officials to design and test enhanced fraud-detection measures that could later be expanded nationwide.
