Legislation sponsored by Sen. Diane Allen to help disabled and low-income veterans with home modifications has passed the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.

“We desperately need to increase support for disabled and impoverished veterans in New Jersey,” Senator Allen (R – Burlington) said. “This legislation will provide our retired military personnel with crucial home upgrades, such as wheelchair ramps, that low-income veterans may otherwise struggle to pay for. These improvements can make life a little easier for those who have sacrificed so much to serve our country.”

Senator Allen’s bill, S-2017, establishes a five year, $5 million pilot program which awards grants to nonprofit organizations to repair and modify the residences of eligible veterans.

Under S-2017, grant preference will be given to nonprofits employing members of the Helmets to Hardhats Program, an organization linking transitioning members of the armed forces to civilian employment in construction.

Throughout her 21 years in the Legislature, Senator Allen has been a proactive advocate for New Jersey’s military and veterans. She has championed numerous pieces of legislation that have been signed into law which include creating a pre-trial program for veterans coping with mental illness and facilitating better relationships between the military and local governments. Recently, Senator Allen received the New Jersey Civilian Meritorious Service Award by the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs for her devoted support of military bases and veterans in New Jersey.

“The New Jersey Housing Assistance for Veterans Act will provide veterans in need with accessible, practical, and safer places to live,” Senator Allen added. “Finding adequate housing is an urgent quality of life issue for so many veterans in New Jersey, particularly those struggling with life-altering medical conditions. I hope that we can get this legislation on the Governor’s desk as soon as possible.”