Bill > A01948

This bill establishes an "affordable independent senior housing assistance program" to provide grants to properties that offer housing for seniors. These grants will fund "resident assistance programs," which are services designed to help seniors maintain independence and improve their quality of life. An "affordable independent senior housing property" is defined as a residential building where at least 80% of residents are over 60, live independently, and have a household income not exceeding 60% of the area median income, with affordability ensured by government agreements. The program will be managed by the "division," which refers to the state division of housing and community renewal, in collaboration with the commissioner of health. Importantly, the resident assistance provided cannot include services that would require the property to be licensed as an adult care facility or an assisted living residence. The bill also specifies that 60% of the funds will go to projects in urban areas and 40% to projects in rural areas, with up to 10% of funds available for program administration.