Frank Melville Supportive Housing Investment Act of 2008
FRANK MELVILLE SUPPORTIVE HOUSING INVESTMENT ACT OF 2008 -- (House of Representatives - September 17, 2008)
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT
Mrs. CAPITO. I would like to join in the chorus of support.
Mr. Speaker, as we have heard, the section 811 program provides housing assistance and supportive services for persons with disabilities. I have seen firsthand in my own district the good works that this program provides, and I am sure it is the same for members across the Nation.
The timing of the passage of this legislation is especially significant, as the House just passed the Americans with Disabilities Act amendments earlier today. It is appropriate that we would now consider legislation to improve our housing programs for those with disabilities who choose to live independently.
We have heard a good review, I believe, of the program. We know that it allows persons with disabilities to live independently. I think that's important to emphasize the independent nature of the 811 program. It is also the only Federal program that is solely dedicated to very low-income folks with serious or long-term disabilities. Unfortunately, sometimes those are coupled together because you have a serious or long-term disability, which sometimes prevents you from working, and it puts you into that low or very low-income bracket.
We have talked about some of the revisions, programatic issues and changes that have been made, terminating 811's Mainstream Tenant-Based Rental Assistance Program and transferring those vouchers to section 8, modernizing the Capital Advance Program, establishing a project rental assistance demonstration program and revising the definitions of ``group home,'' ``people with disabilities,'' ``supportive housing for persons with disabilities.''
Also in this bill, we repeal the authority of the Secretary to waive size limitations on group homes and individual living facilities. These improvements to the program will help provide a better life for individuals with disabilities and their families.
The ability to live independently with the assistance of supportive services is critical to improving the lives of the disabled and allowing them to be active participants in their communities.
I join in thanking Chairman Frank and Ranking Member Bachus. I would like to particularly thank Mr. Murphy for his leadership on this issue and Mrs. Biggert for her leadership as well.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT
Source