This bill appropriates $2,500,000 to the Department of Health and Human Services for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, specifically to increase rates paid to shelter programs. The funds are to remain available until June 30, 2025, and the governor is tasked with determining if any discretionary funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 or other federal sources can be used for this purpose before utilizing general funds. The governor is also authorized to issue a warrant for the necessary amount from the treasury if it is not otherwise appropriated.

The bill stipulates that programs receiving these funds should prioritize veterans for services and must not provide services to individuals not legally present in the United States. Additionally, the Department of Health and Human Services is required to ensure that recipients of the funding submit financial projections for the duration of the contract and provide ongoing financial statements to demonstrate the organization's financial sustainability. The act is set to take effect on June 30, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 161:2