The Journal is the monthly newspaper of New York City's public housing system, and as the New York Times reports, in each issue it publishes dozens of names on a "Not Wanted List." These are folks "formerly affiliated" with various floors in various buildings, but who are now legally barred from entering public housing grounds. Some on the list have been convicted of violent felonies or drug dealing. But others are classified as undesirable due to "common-law nuisances" such as keeping too many pets, or are cited for "moral offenses" such as prostitution or gambling, even if no arrest has occurred. Some are children as young as 15 who've been arrested just once for marijuana possession. Once on the "Not Wanted List," a person can't visit their family members in the projects, even elderly parents in need of care. If they are seen there and reported, the entire family risks eviction. And unless an individual goes through a special process to remove the ban, it will remain in place, even after they've served the time for their crime. Supporters say the exclusions and public lists of shame send a clear message that law-breaking won't be tolerated in public housing. But critics contend the list is a modern-day "scarlet letter" for struggling families. I see another problem -- the likelihood that these exclusions lead to homelessness and criminal recidivism. Without access to affordable public housing, some on the list will have nowhere else to go. And the exclusions remove public housing as an option for many former inmates, a population that desperately needs stability and affordable rent. --Dana Goldstein
