Today, Assemblyman Steinorth called on Governor Jerry Brown to declare a state of emergency on the state’s homelessness crisis. He joined the California State Assembly in passing HR 56 to officially make the request, given California’s ongoing struggle with the crisis. Assemblyman Steinorth also backed the passage of two measures, Assembly Bills 1618 and 1622, which will support local efforts to house and treat the homeless, including veterans, youth, and the mentally ill.
“It is time for a fresh approach to resolving the issue of homelessness gripping our state,” said Assemblyman Steinorth. “With today’s actions, I am taking a stand for our most vulnerable Californians to ensure they receive all appropriate support. I ask that our Governor do the same so we may make lasting improvements to our local communities.”
HR 56 requests that Governor Brown declare a state of emergency on homelessness in order to effectively mobilize state resources to address the issue. According to the resolution, homeless populations across California are rising and there are over 115,000 homeless persons statewide. AB 1618 would rededicate $2 billion in Mental Health Services Act funds to bonds for local grants to house homeless persons with mental health needs. AB 1622 would separately provide oversight of the program, and would reallocate $10 million to house homeless veterans and $10 million to house homeless youth.
Assemblyman Marc Steinorth has been active in addressing California’s lack of housing affordability. In addition to working to improve today’s homelessness measures to better assist San Bernardino County, he also carried a package of legislation to better state housing policy. The legislation would have encouraged homeownership for first-time homebuyers, increased the housing supply, and incentivized local reforms to reduce home prices.
Assemblyman Steinorth represents the 40th Assembly District which includes Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Highland, Loma Linda, and Redlands.
Read the full article at Highland Community News
