H.R.1231 - Supporting Transition And Recovery Through Housing Act of 2025; START Housing Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1231, the START Housing Act of 2025, aims to reauthorize and expand a pilot program that provides stable housing for individuals recovering from substance use disorders. The bill extends the program's authorization through 2031 and modifies certain aspects of its implementation. It prioritizes funding for states with the greatest need based on unemployment rates, labor force participation rates, drug overdose deaths, and unsheltered homelessness rates.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase access to stable housing for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. It will also provide additional resources and technical assistance to states and localities implementing recovery housing programs. The changes aim to improve the effectiveness and sustainability of these programs.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to stable housing for individuals in recovery.
- Prioritization of funding for states with the greatest need.
- Enhanced coordination between state agencies, continuums of care, and public housing agencies.
- Technical assistance and best practices dissemination to improve program effectiveness.
- Supplement existing state and local funding for housing and recovery services.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased federal spending, although the bill does not specify funding levels.
- Possible administrative challenges in coordinating multiple agencies and stakeholders.
- Risk that funds may not be used effectively if programs are not properly implemented or monitored.
- Limited impact if the overall funding is insufficient to address the scale of the housing crisis for individuals in recovery.
- Potential for uneven distribution of resources among states, despite the prioritization criteria.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It addresses a social problem (substance abuse and homelessness) through a federal program. The enumerated power to appropriate funds for such programs is generally accepted. However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, so the extent of federal involvement must be balanced with state autonomy.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).