Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass did not testify on September 12, 2026, before a House subcommittee investigating allegations of fraud and mismanagement in the city's homelessness system. Her absence was criticized by Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), the subcommittee chair, who indicated he might use subpoenas to compel her testimony. Bass's campaign characterized the inquiry as a politically motivated attack by Republican leaders. In a statement, Bass asserted her commitment to addressing homelessness in Los Angeles, stating, "Los Angeles will not be bullied." Burchett expressed concerns about how federal funds for homelessness were utilized in Los Angeles, particularly referencing Skid Row as an example of the city's failures. He claimed that the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) is susceptible to corruption and financial mismanagement. Bass had recently stepped down from LAHSA's board, which Burchett suggested was an attempt to avoid accountability. In response, Bass's attorney, David Michaelson, noted that unsheltered homelessness in Los Angeles has decreased by 11% since she took office in 2022. Burchett's investigation is part of a broader Republican effort to scrutinize California's handling of homelessness and related issues. Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) criticized the hearing as a political maneuver targeting vulnerable populations. During the hearing, a video of Skid Row was shown, and testimonies were provided regarding substance abuse and the effectiveness of current homelessness strategies. Burchett plans to continue examining homelessness in Los Angeles and intends to propose legislation requiring federally funded housing services to include substance abuse treatment. Additionally, LAHSA's board decided not to compete with city and county agencies for core duties, following a legal battle over federal funding. The agency is currently facing challenges due to funding diversions and ongoing legal disputes regarding its operations.
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Mayor Karen Bass Declines to Testify Before House Subcommittee on Homelessness Investigation
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declined to testify before a House subcommittee investigating alleged fraud in the city's homelessness system, leading to criticism from Republican leaders. Bass's campaign labeled the inquiry as politically motivated, while her attorney noted a decrease in unsheltered homelessness since she took office. The hearing included discussions on the management of federal funds and the effectiveness of current homelessness strategies.
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Bass skips hearing on L.A. homelessness spending, calling probe politically motivated
Mayor Karen Bass Declines to Testify Before House Subcommittee on Homelessness Investigation