S.965 - To strengthen the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness. (119th Congress)
Summary
S.965 aims to strengthen the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness by amending the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. The bill removes the specific funding authorization of $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2010 and replaces it with a provision authorizing "such sums as may be necessary" to carry out the title. It also strikes section 209 of the Act and redesignates section 210 as section 209, updating the table of contents accordingly.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is to provide more flexible funding for the Interagency Council on Homelessness. By removing the specific funding amount and allowing for necessary sums, the council may be able to better respond to changing needs and priorities. The removal of section 209 and redesignation of section 210 suggests a streamlining or reorganization of the council's functions.
Potential Benefits
- Increased flexibility in funding for homeless assistance programs.
- Potential for more effective allocation of resources to address homelessness.
- Streamlined operations of the Interagency Council on Homelessness.
- Enhanced coordination among federal agencies working on homelessness issues.
- Improved ability to adapt to changing needs of the homeless population.
Potential Disadvantages
- Removal of specific funding amount could lead to decreased funding if not properly appropriated.
- Streamlining could potentially eliminate valuable programs or services.
- Potential for political influence in determining "necessary sums".
- Lack of transparency in how funds are allocated under the new authorization.
- Risk that the council's priorities may shift away from the most vulnerable populations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to address homelessness, a significant social issue. The authorization of appropriations falls under Congress's power to tax and spend for the general welfare, as outlined in Article I, Section 8. There are no apparent infringements on individual rights or liberties.
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).