In additional special funds and restricted accounts, establishing the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering (SAFE) Housing Trust Fund; and making an interfund transfer.
Impact
The bill could significantly influence state laws related to housing and support for marginalized groups. By allocating $1 million from the General Fund to support the SAFE Housing Trust Fund, it further enriches resources available for aiding survivors. The bill allows the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency to administer the fund and require annual reporting on its expenditures and impacts, ensuring accountability and transparency in how funds are utilized to help those in need.
Summary
House Bill 2474 establishes the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering (SAFE) Housing Trust Fund to assist victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and related issues. The fund is intended to provide access to emergency, transitional, and permanent housing options for these vulnerable populations. It aims to ensure that support services are available without imposing prerequisites that victims must meet before obtaining stable housing. This represents a shift towards viewing housing as a right, which may not have been previously emphasized in state law.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment surrounding HB 2474 appears to be positive among advocates for survivors of domestic violence. Supporters highlight the necessity of providing stable housing options to these vulnerable populations, enhancing their chances of recovery and stability. Among legislators and advocacy groups, there is a recognition of the systemic issues that lead to housing instability for these groups, creating a collaborative atmosphere aimed at improving community services and supports.
Contention
While the bill is likely to be well-supported among those focusing on social welfare and victim advocacy, there may be points of contention around funding sources and the stewardship of the SAFE Housing Trust Fund. Some may raise concerns regarding the ongoing financial sustainability of such initiatives and whether additional state funding could strain other areas of the budget. Furthermore, discussions may arise around the effectiveness and administration of the fund, particularly concerning whether it adequately addresses the diverse needs of its target populations.
In additional special funds and restricted accounts, establishing the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering (SAFE) Housing Trust Fund; and making an interfund transfer.
In additional special funds and restricted accounts, establishing the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering Housing Trust Fund; and making an interfund transfer.
In additional special funds and restricted accounts, establishing the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering Housing Trust Fund; and making an interfund transfer.
In additional special funds and restricted accounts, establishing the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering (SAFE) Housing Trust Fund; and making an interfund transfer.
In additional special funds and restricted accounts, establishing the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering Housing Trust Fund; and making an interfund transfer.
In additional special funds and restricted accounts, establishing the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering Housing Trust Fund; and making an interfund transfer.
In tuition account program, further providing for declaration of policy, for definitions, for Tuition Account Programs Bureau, for powers of department, for Tuition Account Guaranteed Savings Program, for Tuition Account Investment Program, for general provisions governing both tuition account programs and for Federal taxation; establishing the Keystone Scholars Grant Program and the Keystone Scholars Grant Program Account; and making a repeal.
Establishing the Pennsylvania-Ireland Trade Commission and the Pennsylvania-Ireland Trade Commission Fund; imposing duties on the Department of Community and Economic Development; providing for the Entertainment Economic Enhancement Program;
Establishing the Electric School Bus Grant Program and the Electric School Bus Grant Program Fund; providing for duties of the Department of Education; and making an appropriation.