TRENTON, NJ — The Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee on Wednesday advanced legislation sponsored by Senators Troy Singleton and Angela V. McKnight that would address veteran homelessness in New Jersey.

“Support for our veterans does not end once they return to civilian life, and it is our obligation to support them as their service ends. It is unacceptable to allow them to go from serving our country to living on the streets when they come home,” said Senator Singleton (D-Burlington), who represents Bordentown in the Legislature. “Codifying this initiative into law will help ensure that all of our veterans are given the support they need to avoid homelessness and live with the safety and dignity of a roof over their heads.”

The bill, S-1838, would codify the “Bringing Veterans Home” initiative in statute, which would be led by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) in consultation with the Department of Veterans Affairs. The legislation directs the Office of Homelessness Prevention in the DCA to establish and maintain six regional hubs across New Jersey tasked with accelerating housing outcomes for veterans in their respective regions. The Office would also be required to use data on veteran homelessness to determine areas of need and effective interventions, as well as to establish and maintain a standardized referral form for the program that organizations can use for veterans experiencing homelessness. The Office would adopt classifications of veterans eligible to participate and receive various forms of assistance to help them access available resources.

“When our veterans come home, they should never have to worry about where they’re going to sleep,” said Senator McKnight (D-Hudson). “This bill makes sure the ‘Bringing Veterans Home’ initiative isn’t just a promise, but a permanent commitment. By putting it into law, we’re creating a clear, reliable path to housing and making sure veterans get the help they need quickly, with dignity and respect.”

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