Bill > SB1043

This bill establishes a comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness in Arizona by creating two key mechanisms: a mandate for cities with significant homeless populations and a new homeless shelter and services fund. For cities with more than 75 individuals experiencing homelessness (based on the 2024 point-in-time count), the bill requires providing at least one shelter bed for every four homeless individuals and establishing a judicial diversion program to help homeless individuals resolve minor legal issues. The bill creates a state-administered fund that will provide grants to counties, cities, towns, tribal governments, and nonprofits for homeless services, with priorities including increasing shelter beds, improving service options (such as behavioral health, substance use treatment, veteran resources, and employment training), and supporting heat relief efforts. Grant recipients must provide matching funds, track and report detailed performance metrics about the individuals they serve, and cannot prohibit enforcement of public camping restrictions. The bill requires comprehensive demographic reporting, including age, gender, ethnicity, reasons for homelessness, and other details. The Arizona Department of Housing will manage the fund and submit an annual report to state leadership detailing expenditures, grant recipients, and service outcomes. While the specific appropriation amount is not specified in the bill text, it indicates an intent to fund the program in fiscal year 2025-2026 from the state general fund.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/81748