Bill
A 1693
Bill A 1693 creates a grant program to help organizations provide pet-friendly housing, reducing barriers for families facing homelessness while keeping their pets.
Bill Number: A 1693
Introduced On: January 14, 2025
Current Status: Referred to Social Services
Classification: Bill
Bill A 1693 aims to create a grant program designed to support initiatives that facilitate housing for both people and their pets. The intent is to address the growing concern of homelessness among individuals and families who are unable to secure housing due to restrictions on pet ownership in rental properties. By establishing this program, the bill seeks to promote the well-being of both humans and animals, recognizing the importance of companionship in housing stability.
Grant Program Establishment: The bill establishes the Housing People and Animals Together Grant Program, which will provide funding to organizations and local governments that create or enhance housing options accommodating both residents and their pets.
Eligibility Criteria: Organizations applying for grants must demonstrate a commitment to integrating pet-friendly policies in housing developments, including but not limited to:
Funding Allocation: The bill outlines the process for allocating funds, including potential sources of revenue and the criteria for grant distribution. Specific dollar amounts for grants may be determined in subsequent appropriations.
Reporting Requirements: Recipients of the grants will be required to report on the outcomes of their initiatives, including metrics on housing stability and pet retention rates among residents.
Individuals and Families: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are individuals and families facing housing insecurity who wish to keep their pets. The program aims to reduce barriers to housing that exclude pet owners.
Housing Organizations: Nonprofits and local governments that provide housing solutions will be directly impacted, as they can apply for funding to create or modify housing that accommodates pets.
Animal Welfare Groups: Organizations focused on animal welfare may also benefit from partnerships with housing providers to ensure the well-being of pets in these housing situations.
Current Status: As of January 14, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Social Services committee for further consideration.
Related Legislation: This bill is related to prior-session Bill A 10592 and has a companion bill, S 673, which may provide additional context or support for similar initiatives.
Bill A 1693 represents a proactive approach to addressing the intersection of housing insecurity and pet ownership. By establishing a grant program, the legislation seeks to foster environments where individuals can maintain their companionship with pets while securing stable housing. The bill's progress through the legislative process will be closely monitored as it moves through the Social Services committee.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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