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Committee authorizes homelessness study; deflection/diversion centers to be considered within that scope
Summary
Legislative Management authorized a statewide homelessness study, including evaluation of programs and possible oversight tied to planned state homelessness funding. Committee determined diversion/deflection centers fall within the study’s scope.
The committee approved a discretionary statewide study of homelessness and directed that related topics — including diversion or deflection centers — be examined within that scope.
Senator Sorvaugh, who introduced the item, said the study was intended to align with the Industrial Commission budget and to provide oversight for potential state investments. Members noted the state had considered a $10 million homelessness investment; several urged that money be accompanied by an evaluation of strategies and oversight to avoid ineffective spending. Representative Bosch and others argued a comprehensive statewide strategy is needed to coordinate local providers, housing finance authorities and criminal-justice diversion programs.
Members explicitly agreed that deflection/diversion centers — facilities intended to divert individuals toward services instead of the criminal-justice system — can be examined as part of the homelessness study. Legislative Council staff will draft a study scope and coordinate with related departmental and local stakeholders.
