Bill > H4606

This bill addresses veteran housing challenges in South Carolina by establishing the Veteran Housing Stability and Security Act, which creates three key mechanisms to support veterans experiencing housing instability. First, counties can now designate Veteran Housing Priority Zones in census tracts with documented veteran homelessness, and local governments must expedite zoning and permitting for veteran-supportive housing projects within 45 days. Second, the Department of Veterans' Affairs will administer a statewide landlord guarantee program that reimburses landlords up to $3,500 for damages or unpaid rent from veteran tenants using housing vouchers, which aims to incentivize landlords to rent to veterans and reduce housing discrimination. Third, the bill allows faith-based and nonprofit organizations to apply for grants to establish veteran transitional housing, with priority given to counties that currently lack such facilities. The legislation is motivated by findings that South Carolina veterans face disproportionate rates of homelessness, federal housing vouchers are often insufficient, and the state has a moral obligation to support those who have served in the military by ensuring they have access to secure housing.

Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4606&session=126&summary=B