Murray and Heller Propose Expansions and Changes to GPD Program
On June 18, 2012, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) introduced S. 3309, the Homeless Veterans Assistance Act of 2012.
The legislation would, among other provisions, authorize the use of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Program dollars for the care of dependents of a currently homeless veteran who also is receiving assistance through the GPD program.
The measure would also:
- Expand the VA’s authority to provide dental care to veterans experiencing homelessness, and would authorize grants for the operational expenses of centers providing direct services to homeless veterans; and
- Extend the authorizations of several programs and authorities including the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Programs (HVRP) and the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans.
The measure has been referred to the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and has no original co-sponsors.
Also, On June 18, Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) introduced S. 3308, the Women’s Homeless Veterans Act. The legislation would:
- Require that at least 15% of the funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Program be allocated to veterans who are experiencing homelessness and have special needs. This allocation would include services provided to female veterans; and
- Authorize the use of GPD payments for the dependents of currently homeless veterans who are receiving assistance through the GPD program.
The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) is the bill’s only cosponsor as of this writing.
Click here for the text of S. 3309.
Click here for the text of S. 3308.
