Central South Dakota News

U.S. Senators Mike Rounds, Tina Smith, Mike Crapo, and Jack Reed have introduced the Reducing Homelessness Through Program Reform Act. The proposed legislation aims to address homelessness by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and empowering local communities to create tailored solutions.

Senator Rounds emphasized the need for a localized approach: “Despite record levels of federal funding, homelessness continues to rise. It’s clear that a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t working,” he said. He added that the bill would cut red tape and allow local leaders to deliver more effective solutions.

Senator Smith highlighted the importance of safe housing: “Without a safe, affordable place to live nothing else in your life works – not your job, health, family, or education.” She noted that the bill aims to streamline federal programs and reduce administrative burdens.

The legislation seeks to improve the Housing Choice Voucher Program and enhance coordination between various agencies serving homeless individuals. Senator Crapo stated: “This bipartisan legislation is urgently needed to strengthen the Housing Choice Voucher Program.”

Senator Reed pointed out the necessity of connecting people with housing and support systems: “We must do everything we can to make programs more effective.”

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reported approximately 771,480 people experiencing homelessness as of January 2024. The new bill proposes several measures including easing bureaucratic processes for Continuum of Care organizations and upgrading outdated software systems.

Eric Kunzweiler from Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership expressed support for the bill's efforts in reducing administrative burdens: “Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership fully supports this bill that eases administrative burdens which would allow us to respond more quickly.”

Michele Stockwell from Bipartisan Policy Center Action also endorsed the act for its focus on cutting red tape and improving data coordination.

Renee Willis from NLIHC praised the bipartisan effort for enacting reforms aimed at better serving those with urgent housing needs.