Bill > S878

This bill aims to secure housing for returning citizens, or individuals who were previously incarcerated. The key provisions of the bill include: 1. Establishing a "reentry and formerly incarcerated persons program" within the state's Department of Housing and Community Development to help incarcerated individuals understand housing options, find housing before and after release, and receive financial support like housing vouchers. 2. Requiring various state agencies and authorities that administer or fund affordable housing programs to prioritize and provide preference for housing opportunities for incarcerated individuals about to be released and formerly incarcerated persons. 3. Directing the Department of Housing and Community Development to review the implementation and effectiveness of state-funded affordable housing programs in serving this population annually. 4. Amending several existing state laws related to housing, community development, and tax credits to include specific provisions for prioritizing housing for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. 5. Requiring the state to implement a priority for emergency housing vouchers under the American Rescue Plan Act for this population. The overall goal of the bill is to improve access to stable and affordable housing for individuals transitioning from incarceration back into the community, which can be a critical factor in reducing recidivism and supporting successful reentry.