ESSB 5232 — Supporting economic security by updating provisions related to the home security fund and the essential needs and housing support program.

What this bill does

Authorizes the Department of Commerce to use Essential Needs and Housing Support program (HEN) funding to support low- or extremely low-income elderly or disabled adults who are transitioning off HEN, are receiving federal Social Security benefits, and still have an immediate housing need. Allows benefits under the HEN program and programs funded through the Home Security Fund to be provided in the form of direct cash assistance. Raises the administration rate for HEN support entities from 7 percent to 15 percent, in alignment with the administration rate for programs funded through the Home Security Fund. Requires HEN housing support service providers to verify clients' HEN referrals for rental assistance every 12 months.

From the Washington State Legislature's nonpartisan staff bill analysis. Read the full analysis ↗

Floor votes

• House — Final Passage as Amended by the House · April 14, 2025
  59 yea · 38 nay · 1 not voting
• Senate — Final Passage as Amended by the House · April 18, 2025
  30 yea · 18 nay · 1 not voting
• Senate — 3rd Reading & Final Passage · February 25, 2025
  31 yea · 18 nay

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Other bills sponsored by Wilson, C.

• ESSB 5029 — Concerning the transportation of individuals released or discharged from the custody of the department of corrections.
• SSB 5030 — Improving access to educational services by reducing barriers to obtaining vital records and allowing alternative forms of documentation.
• SB 5032 — Expanding the duties of the office of the family and children's ombuds to include juvenile rehabilitation facilities operated by the department of children, youth, and families.
• ESSB 5128 — Concerning medical services for individuals in juvenile detention facilities.
• SSB 5131 — Accommodating religious celebrations in state correctional facilities.