The "Veteran Housing Stability and Security Act" aims to address the high rates of homelessness and housing instability among veterans in South Carolina. The bill establishes mechanisms to prioritize veteran housing development, protect landlords who rent to veterans, and expand transitional and long-term supportive housing statewide. It recognizes the challenges veterans face, such as landlords denying voucher holders and the lack of fast-track development pathways in certain counties.

To implement these goals, the bill introduces new provisions in the South Carolina Code, specifically adding Section 25-15-50. This section allows counties to designate Veteran Housing Priority Zones in areas with documented veteran homelessness and mandates local governments to expedite zoning and permitting for veteran-supportive housing projects within 45 days. Additionally, it establishes a statewide landlord guarantee program administered by the Department of Veterans' Affairs, which reimburses landlords for damages or unpaid rent related to veteran tenants using housing vouchers. The act also enables faith-based and nonprofit organizations to apply for grants to create transitional housing for veterans, particularly in counties lacking such facilities.

Statutes affected:
12/17/2025: 25-15-50
Latest Version: 25-15-50