As of January 1, 2009, a new state law states that anyone who defrauds a housing program of a public housing authority of $400 or more is guilty of grand theft and is subject to imprisonment for up to one year (California Penal Code Section 487i); residents of public housing defraud the Housing Authority whenever they intentionally misrepresent their family composition or family income. All residents must always report changes in household income and composition. Residents also must obtain written approval from HACLA in order to allow additional persons to reside in public housing or Section 8 units. If you are found in violation of the rules, you could face jail time.