Bill 118 hr 4787, also known as the Volunteer First Responder Housing Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to provide housing assistance to volunteer first responders who serve in rural and underserved communities.
The bill recognizes the important role that volunteer first responders play in ensuring the safety and well-being of their communities. Many of these volunteers often struggle to afford housing in the areas they serve, leading to difficulties in recruitment and retention of these essential personnel.
If passed, the Volunteer First Responder Housing Act would establish a grant program to assist volunteer first responders in purchasing or renting housing in the communities where they serve. The grants would be awarded based on financial need and the availability of funds.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions to ensure that the housing assistance provided is used for its intended purpose and that recipients meet certain eligibility criteria. This is to prevent misuse of funds and ensure that the program benefits those who truly need it.
Overall, the Volunteer First Responder Housing Act aims to support and incentivize volunteer first responders to continue serving their communities by addressing the housing challenges they face. It is a bipartisan effort to strengthen emergency response capabilities in rural and underserved areas across the country.