H.R.585 - Supporting Veteran Families in Need Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 585, the Supporting Veteran Families in Need Act, seeks to amend Title 38 of the United States Code to make permanent the Secretary of Veterans Affairs' authority to provide financial assistance for supportive services to very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 21, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
The core provision of the bill involves making permanent the financial assistance program for supportive services, ensuring its continuation beyond its current authorization. This involves redesignating existing subparagraphs within Section 2044(e) of Title 38 and adding a new paragraph to ensure funding for fiscal year 2027 and subsequent years.
By making the program permanent, the bill aims to provide long-term stability and support for vulnerable veteran families, addressing their housing needs and related supportive services.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 585 would ensure the continuous provision of financial assistance for supportive services to very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. This would provide stability and reduce the risk of homelessness among this vulnerable population.
The change would allow the Department of Veterans Affairs to plan and allocate resources more effectively, knowing that the program's authorization is permanent. This could lead to better program outcomes and improved support for veteran families.
Potential Benefits
- Provides long-term housing stability for very low-income veteran families.
- Ensures continuous access to supportive services, reducing the risk of homelessness.
- Allows the Department of Veterans Affairs to plan and allocate resources more effectively.
- Potentially improves the overall well-being and quality of life for veteran families.
- Demonstrates a commitment to supporting those who have served in the military.
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill itself does not specify the amount of funding to be appropriated, which could lead to uncertainty in future program implementation.
- Making the program permanent could reduce congressional oversight and flexibility in responding to changing needs.
- There may be administrative costs associated with implementing and maintaining the program.
- Potential for inefficient use of funds if the program is not properly managed or evaluated.
- Could create dependency on government assistance if not coupled with efforts to promote self-sufficiency.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to support a vulnerable population (veterans) and improve their living conditions. The Constitution's preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare".
Congress has the power to legislate for the common defense and general welfare, which includes providing for veterans. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to "provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States".
There are no apparent constitutional conflicts, as the bill does not infringe on individual rights or freedoms. The bill operates within the scope of Congress's enumerated powers.
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).