S.1415 - Housing Unhoused Disabled Veterans Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1415, the "Housing Unhoused Disabled Veterans Act," aims to amend the United States Housing Act of 1937 to exclude certain disability benefits from income calculations when determining eligibility for supported housing programs for veterans. Specifically, it targets benefits received under chapter 11 or chapter 15 of title 38, United States Code. This exclusion is intended to make housing more accessible for disabled veterans.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would likely increase the number of disabled veterans eligible for housing assistance under Section 8(o)(19) of the United States Housing Act of 1937. By excluding certain disability benefits from income calculations, more veterans would meet the income requirements for these programs. This could lead to a reduction in homelessness among disabled veterans.
Potential Benefits
- Increased housing access for disabled veterans.
- Potential reduction in homelessness among veterans.
- Improved financial stability for veterans by not counting disability benefits as income for housing eligibility.
- Addresses a specific need within the veteran community.
- May incentivize veterans to apply for and receive disability benefits, improving their overall well-being.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on existing housing assistance programs due to increased demand.
- Possible need for increased funding to support the expanded eligibility.
- Complexity in administering the exclusion of disability benefits from income calculations.
- The exclusion does not apply to the definition of adjusted income, which may create confusion or limit the full benefit for some veterans.
- Potential for unintended consequences if the exclusion leads to reduced assistance in other areas due to income changes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to provide housing assistance to a vulnerable population (disabled veterans). Congress has the power to legislate in areas concerning veterans' affairs. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).