Aiding Temporary Housing Assistance Act

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Assembly convened: Section 1. Legislative Findings and Purpose The General Assembly finds that: Homelessness in the State of Connecticut has increased due to rising housing costs, insufficient emergency shelter capacity, and inadequate access to supportive services; Emergency shelters and transitional housing providers are experiencing chronic underfunding and staffing shortages; Evidence-based investments in homelessness prevention, shelter expansion, and supportive housing reduce long-term public costs associated with emergency medical care, incarceration, and child welfare involvement. The purpose of this act is to reduce homelessness by increasing funding for emergency shelters, expanding prevention programs, and accelerating the development of supportive and permanent housing solutions. Section 2. Emergency Shelter and Outreach Funding (a) For the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2026, and each fiscal year thereafter, the sum of $75,000,000 shall be appropriated from the General Fund to the Department of Housing for the purpose of: Increasing operating grants to emergency shelters, warming centers, and low-barrier shelters; Expanding shelter capacity, including the renovation or acquisition of facilities; Supporting 24-hour shelter operations and year-round access; Funding street outreach teams and coordinated entry systems. (b) No less than fifteen per cent of funds appropriated under this section shall be allocated to shelters serving families with children. Section 3. Homelessness Prevention and Diversion Program (a) The Department of Housing, in consultation with the Department of Social Services, shall establish a statewide Homelessness Prevention and Diversion Program. (b) Such program shall provide: Rental assistance and arrearage payments; Utility assistance; Mediation between tenants and landlords; Legal assistance related to eviction prevention. (c) The sum of $40,000,000 is appropriated annually to carry out the provisions of this section. Section 4. Supportive and Permanent Housing Expansion (a) The Department of Housing shall allocate funds to expand supportive and permanent housing units for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. (b) Priority shall be given to: Individuals with disabilities or behavioral health needs; Veterans; Survivors of domestic violence; Individuals exiting institutional settings. (c) The sum of $60,000,000 is appropriated for capital development and $25,000,000 annually for supportive services. Section 5. (NEW) Workforce and Nonprofit Capacity Support (a) The Department of Housing shall provide grants to nonprofit providers to: Increase wages for shelter and outreach staff; Provide workforce training and retention incentives; Improve data collection and reporting systems. (b) The sum of $15,000,000 is appropriated annually for the purposes of this section. Section 6. Reporting and Accountability (a) Not later than January 1, 2027, and annually thereafter, the Department of Housing shall submit a report to the joint standing committees of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to housing and human services. (b) Such report shall include: Shelter capacity and utilization rates; Changes in the number of individuals experiencing homelessness; Outcomes of prevention and diversion efforts; Geographic distribution of funds. Section 7. Effective Date This act shall take effect March 1st, 2026.