Watch CBS News

Fla. Lawmakers Propose Bill To Help Homeless

TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — A newly filed bill, by two Florida lawmakers, is meant to expand programs for homeless people in the state.

Senator Jack Latvala, R-Clearwater, and Rep. Kathleen Peters, R-South Pasadena, filed bills to expand grant programs to help fund temporary and transitional housing and services for the homeless. The bill would also provide training and technical support to agencies serving the homeless.

Latvala says Florida has the third highest number of homeless people in the country, and the recent recession has limited funding for existing programs.

He wants to use some of the budget surplus to help the most vulnerable citizens.

The grants will be awarded based on the degree of homelessness in a community and the ability of local government and private organizations to match funds.

TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE
Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated
Press contributed to this report.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.