CA AB2817

Establishes the House California Challenge Program administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development in partnership with the California Health and Human Services Agency to provide direct rental assistance to persons experiencing homelessness.

Allocates $1,000,000,000 annually for 5 years beginning in fiscal year 2022-23, with 10% for grants to help participants locate housing, 80% for long-term rental assistance, master leasing, and prevention/diversion services, and up to 10% for administrative costs.

Requires recipients to comply with Housing First principles and use funds for landlord incentives, housing navigation services, tenancy transition services, holding fees, and lease establishment costs.

Protects participants by exempting program assistance from counting as income or resources for public assistance program eligibility and allowing participation in multiple benefits programs simultaneously.

Requires annual reporting by recipients on fund expenditures, number of individuals served, and housing outcomes, with department submitting comprehensive program reports to specified legislative committees starting January 1, 2024.