Committee hears request to continue landlord incentive for Housing Choice Voucher tenants
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Summary
Senator Fillmore and housing-sector witnesses described a $200,000 ongoing appropriation to reimburse landlords for tenant-caused damages beyond normal wear and tear, saying the program reduces landlord disincentives to accept vouchers and is administered by the Department of Workforce Services.
Senator Fillmore presented a request for $200,000 in ongoing funding for a landlord incentive program tied to the federal Housing Choice Voucher program. He said the program reimburses landlords for damages beyond normal wear and tear so more units will be available to voucher holders.
"This incentive program... helps properties participate in this program and make housing available at a very low income rate," Fillmore said, describing the policy purpose of reducing financial risk for landlords.
Nick Lloyd, an attorney representing the Rental Housing Association, explained guardrails: landlords seeking reimbursement must obtain a judicial judgment for damages and the Department of Workforce Services reviews claims before payment. Justin Allen (Rental Housing Association) said the program has broad support, has operated about a decade, and was nearly out of funds in some years; he urged ongoing funding to stabilize the program.
Committee members asked about tenant and landlord education to reduce problems; presenters said training and toolkits exist though the RFA does not include education funding. No formal vote on the funding request occurred during the meeting.
