Democratic leaders in Vermont’s Legislature are actively preparing a supplemental funding bill aimed at extending housing support for over 1,000 low-income families facing the loss of their motel accommodations by the end of June. Since the Legislature’s recent adjournment, Rep. Emilie Kornheiser of Brattleboro has noted a growing awareness of the potential negative repercussions resulting from the abrupt termination of the emergency motel housing program.
Kornheiser, who chairs the House Committee on Ways and Means, announced on Tuesday that she and other legislative leaders are drafting legislation that would broaden housing support specifically for individuals with disabilities, families with children, and seniors aged 62 and older. She emphasized, “This initiative aims to enhance collaboration and accountability, ensuring that individuals currently utilizing the emergency housing program have access to appropriate services and accommodations tailored to their needs.”
Addressing Criticism and Shifting Resources
This legislative effort follows significant backlash against the decision made by Republican Governor Phil Scott and the Democratic-controlled Legislature to drastically reduce the motel housing program this summer. Advocates are raising alarms about a potential wave of unsheltered Vermonters who could find themselves homeless after losing access to motel stays. With federal funding that sustained the program since the onset of the pandemic now expired, both Scott and Democratic leaders have expressed that the state lacks the financial means to maintain it.
However, this assessment appears to be evolving. Kornheiser stated that confidence in the Scott administration’s ability to transition vulnerable populations into stable housing options has diminished since the Legislature’s recess. “It’s become evident that the administration requires additional support to facilitate this transition, and our communities need increased flexibility and resources,” she explained.
Lawmakers plan to vote on the still-developing legislation during their upcoming veto session. Democratic leaders are optimistic that this bill could serve as a foundation for overriding Scott’s veto of the state budget. A coalition of Democratic and Progressive lawmakers has argued for increased budget allocations to sustain the motel housing program, intending to uphold Scott’s veto to push for additional funding.
While it’s premature to determine if Kornheiser’s proposed bill will garner the coalition’s support, one member remarked, “The specifics will be crucial.” Kornheiser acknowledged that lawmakers have yet to finalize the bill’s funding amount, clarifying that it would not reinstate motel eligibility for the approximately 800 households that lost access on May 31. She believes that the resources allocated in the budget approved last month will adequately address the needs of that group.
Kornheiser further indicated that the new funding may not be solely for motel stays. The Legislature aims to grant the Agency of Human Services the flexibility to utilize these funds for various housing solutions for those at risk of becoming homeless. The legislation will also instruct the administration to negotiate reduced monthly rates with motel owners. Additionally, Kornheiser noted that the Legislature’s Joint Fiscal Committee would hold regular meetings to ensure that services are effectively aligned with the community’s needs, promoting a coordinated response.
Kornheiser also expressed a desire to involve the Scott administration in the drafting of the supplemental funding plan. A spokesperson for the governor stated that Scott has yet to review the details but anticipates discussions with House Speaker Jill Krowinski and Senate President Pro Tem Phil Baruth later this week.
Source : https://www.vermontpublic.org/local-news/2023-06-13/after-widespread-outcry-vermont-lawmakers-plan-to-extend-emergency-housing-program