Senator Christopher J. Connors, Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf and Assemblyman Daniel M. Van Pelt (all R-Ocean/Burl./Atl.) announced today they will be introducing legislation to require a portion of tenant-based assistance vouchers under the State Rental Assistance Program be reserved for grants to veterans. The 9th District Legislators intend to introduce their initiative at the next quorum of their respective Houses.
“In light of the service and sacrifice by these individuals to their country, veterans should be entitled to special consideration under this State housing program established for individuals and families struggling financially,” said Senator Connors, a member of the Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “Sharp increases in housing costs including electricity and, most likely, home heating oil prompted our Delegation to re-examine veteran eligibility for state housing assistance programs. Making vouchers available to a greater number of veterans for use in the State Rental Assistance Program would be of considerable assistance, especially in these uncertain economic times.”
The State Rental Assistance Program was established for low-income individuals or households. Currently, a portion of the grants available under the Program are reserved specifically for veterans who have completed the Veterans Transitional Housing Program known as “Veterans Haven.” This is a vocational and transitional housing program for homeless veterans, which is administered by the State’s Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs.
“Our country’s military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as other places in the world, have once again highlighted the pressing need to address the considerable needs of our veterans, whatever they may be,” remarked Assemblyman Rumpf. “The State Rental Assistance Program serves as a safety-net for certain individuals who were not able to obtain Section 8 housing through the federal government. Dedicating a portion of the Program’s vouchers for more veterans would be recognizing the hardships, both physically and financially, that may result from certain individual’s military service.”
Assemblyman Van Pelt, who serves on the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee, went on to add, “Unquestionably, we, as a state, have an obligation to provide assistance to veterans of our Armed Forces with whatever resources are available. Through our bill, we will advocate for broadening eligibility in that a portion of the vouchers be designated for all veterans, beyond the limited group that is currently eligible. It is also important to note that because this assistance is in the form of vouchers, it would allow veterans the freedom to choose where they wish to reside, as long as certain guidelines are met.”
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October 20, 2008
