Veteran Homelessness in Texas Senate Report

Texas Senate Committee chaired by State Senator Kelly Hancock reported to the 89th Texas Legislature that Veteran homelessness increased by 19% in 2023. Could high property taxes be one of these causes.

3. Study the accessibility and affordability of veteran housing. Identify factors

that contribute to veteran homelessness. Determine whether the Veterans

Land Board has the tools necessary to maximize their assistance to eligible

borrowers in home lending. Make recommendations to update state standards

to veteran home loans and housing.

Background

According to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), there was a 19% increase in Texas veterans experiencing homelessness in 2023 — one of the largest jumps nationwide.9

HUD released its annual report in 2023 about Americans experiencing homelessness. The HUD report estimated roughly 20 in every 10,000 Americans experienced homelessness on a single night in January 2023.10

Texas is currently taking initiatives that include expanding affordable housing options, increasing access to mental health and substance abuse services, and enhancing job training and employment opportunities. Collaboration with non-profits, local governments, and community organizations is also a key component, ensuring a coordinated effort to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions.

Texas also leads the nation in housing assistance for our veterans by providing home loans to those eligible though a program under the Veterans Land Board (VLB.) Through the Veterans Housing Assistance Program (VHAP), eligible Texas Veterans and Military Members are able to purchase a home through a low-interest loan with little or no down payment. However, with housing costs and inflation rising, the VLB is exploring ways to enhance this program so that veterans may continue to utilize this helpful tool.

Reducing the burden of high property taxes on disabled veterans can easy the cost of home ownership for some. Please contact State Representatives and Senators on support of SB1126/HB2032.

https://www.aol.com/college-campus-270m-high-school-110000970.html https://house.texas.gov/committees/committee/309 go tell these folks on Veterans Affairs your thoughts with a quick email.