CONTACT: Rep. Patrick Snyder (608) 266-0655
Assembly package aimed at combating homelessness moves to Senate
MADISON – Yesterday, the state Assembly voted to approve a bill authored by Representative Patrick Snyder (Schofield) that increases access to housing grants for homeless individuals. Assembly Bill 235 is part of a legislative package introduced by Assembly Republicans, supported by a broad coalition of advocates and service providers, that will work to combat homelessness in Wisconsin.
“I am so fortunate that during my first term as a state representative the Legislature is making a strong effort to prevent homelessness,” said Snyder. “These are the first steps Wisconsin has taken in years to address homelessness and I am honored to be a part of it.”
AB 235 directs the state to better utilize existing funding to assist those facing homelessness. It will allow the money the state currently allocates to transitional housing to be opened to include other types of housing models, such as Housing First. It also removes the requirement that housing cost grants have to be split according to an outdated formula. Grants will be distributed based on geographical areas served by each continuum of care organization.
“Through collaboration between local and state entities, we will work to give individuals the tools they need to move from streets into homes, and ultimately into employment and independence.”
All four bills that are part of the homelessness package passed the Assembly with bipartisan support. They now move on to the state Senate.
