Bill > SB873

This bill establishes the West Virginia Homelessness Rehabilitation and Public Safety Act, which creates a comprehensive program to address homelessness through a structured rehabilitation approach. The Department of Human Services would repurpose vacant public buildings into minimum-security residence halls where homeless individuals deemed mentally sound can receive comprehensive support. Participants would be required to engage in personal development activities, including hygiene training, facility maintenance, and vocational skill instruction in areas like agriculture and maintenance. The program aims to transition individuals to independent living by providing job placement assistance through Workforce West Virginia, creating personalized financial plans with mandatory savings, and ultimately helping residents secure housing and employment. Funding will be managed by the Department of Human Services, which may collaborate with nonprofits and mental health facilities. The department will submit annual reports to the Legislature for the first five years, tracking metrics such as rehabilitation success, job placements, and financial independence rates. The bill also includes enforcement provisions, allowing penalties for individuals who refuse to participate in rehabilitation programs and authorizing strict enforcement of existing loitering and vagrancy laws.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=873&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill