"California's Homelessness Programs: Audit Reveals Billions Mismanaged and Lack of Accountability"

A state audit revealed that California spent $24 billion on homelessness programs over the past five years without consistently tracking their effectiveness, leading to a lack of reliable data to understand why the issue hasn't improved in many cities. The audit found that only two of the programs were likely cost-effective, including one that converts hotel and motel rooms into housing and another that provides housing assistance to prevent families from becoming homeless. The lack of accountability and transparency at every level has raised concerns among lawmakers, with calls for a shift toward solutions that prioritize self-sufficiency and cost effectiveness. The California Interagency Council on Homelessness, responsible for overseeing the programs, has not tracked spending or program effectiveness, and the state database contains inaccuracies. The council acknowledged the findings and emphasized the need for local governments to step up in collecting data on program outcomes.