Connecticut House Bill HB05100

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/20
• Refer: 2/13/20

Caption

An Act Appropriating Funds For Housing Resources For The Homeless And To Prevent Homelessness.

Impact

This bill is expected to significantly enhance resources available for housing support services in the state. By directing funds towards coordinated access networks, HB05100 aims to improve regional coordination and collaboration among various agencies involved in addressing homelessness. These initiatives could lead to lower shelter admissions by offering timely assistance and counseling, thereby maintaining stable housing for families at risk of becoming homeless.

Summary

House Bill 05100 seeks to allocate funds for housing resources aimed at combating homelessness and preventing additional cases of homelessness. Specifically, the bill appropriates money from the General Fund for the Department of Housing for the fiscal year concluding June 30, 2021. The intended uses of the funds include support for coordinated access networks that provide housing counseling and navigation, as well as financial assistance to households in crisis. Additionally, it supports the United Way of Connecticut’s 2-1-1 Infoline program, which offers assistance for housing and shelter-related inquiries.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to provide critical support to vulnerable populations, discussions surrounding its passage may include debates about the adequacy of proposed funding levels and the effectiveness of existing resources. Critics might argue that without sufficient funding or strategic oversight, the initiatives funded by this bill may not achieve their desired outcomes in effectively reducing homelessness. Additionally, certain stakeholders may press for increased accountability on how funds will be utilized by the Department of Housing and opposing views on balancing state versus local responsibilities in tackling homelessness.