Arizona Senate Bill SB1391

Arizona 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24

Caption

Appropriation; housing assistance; elderly

Impact

If enacted, SB1391 would significantly bolster the financial resources available for providing housing assistance to older adults in Arizona. The bill explicitly states that the funding shall be considered ongoing, which suggests a commitment to annual allocations to support housing initiatives for the elderly. Furthermore, the exemption from the lapsing of appropriations provision provides additional assurance that these funds will be available as long as necessary, allowing for better long-term planning and stability in housing assistance programs.

Summary

SB1391 is a proposed bill aiming to appropriate $7 million from the state general fund for the fiscal year 2024-2025 to support housing assistance programs specifically targeted at individuals aged sixty and above. The funding will be distributed by the Department of Economic Security through area agencies on aging that are established in accordance with the Older Americans Act of 1965. The intent of this bill is to provide ongoing financial assistance to ensure that elderly residents have access to safe and affordable housing options.

Contention

While the bill focuses on an important aspect of social welfare, it may attract discussions regarding budget priorities. Critics might argue that allocating such a substantial sum to housing assistance could divert funds from other essential services. Supporters, on the other hand, would emphasize the necessity of addressing the housing needs of an increasingly aging population, especially given the challenges many seniors face in securing affordable housing.