Arizona House Bill HB2657

Arizona 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23

Caption

Appropriation; housing assistance; elderly.

Impact

Should HB2657 be enacted, it would represent a significant step towards enhancing housing support for the elderly in Arizona. By providing ongoing funding, the bill aims to ensure that there is a sustained commitment to assist older adults facing housing challenges. The government recognizes the increasing need for such support as the population ages, and this legislation is an acknowledgment of that reality. The explicit intent for this appropriation to be ongoing in future years reflects a proactive approach to elder care.

Summary

House Bill 2657 proposes an appropriation of $7,000,000 from the state general fund for the fiscal year 2023-2024. The funds are designated for the Department of Economic Security, which is tasked with distributing this amount to area agencies on aging as per the provisions of the Older Americans Act of 1965. The primary objective of the legislation is to provide housing assistance specifically targeted at individuals aged 60 and above, thereby addressing the housing needs of the elderly population within the state.

Contention

While there appears to be broad support for addressing the needs of the elderly through housing assistance, potential points of contention may arise regarding the fiscal implications of the funding. Critics may question the adequacy of the proposed amount or its allocation, particularly in times of budget constraints. There may also be discussions about the efficiency and effectiveness of the current distribution mechanisms employed by area agencies on aging, as well as scrutiny regarding the long-term impacts of this funding strategy on state resources and other priority areas.