A Federal Policy to End Veteran Homelessness and Provide Guaranteed Benefits for Long-Term Servicemembers

Prepared by: Rodney LaBruce, Candidate for U.S. Congress, TX-30

Unified Advocacy and Leadership Coalition (UALC)

Executive Summary

Despite bipartisan praise for our armed forces, the United States continues to fail thousands of veterans—particularly those who served honorably for years but now face homelessness, unemployment, and health crises. As of 2024, more than 33,000 veterans are homeless on any given night, and countless more live on the edge of poverty.

This white paper proposes two targeted federal actions:

- The Veterans Housing and Dignity Act – A national initiative to eliminate veteran homelessness within five years by building affordable supportive housing units and offering direct rental support.

- The Veterans Service Dividend – A monthly federal benefit for all veterans with at least 10 years of combined active or reserve service, recognizing long-term commitment regardless of combat status.

These proposals are built on the belief that honoring service requires more than ceremonies—it requires policy rooted in dignity, equity, and economic security.

The Problem

Homelessness: The VA estimates ~13% of the adult homeless population are veterans. Many face barriers due to mental health issues, lack of income, and limited access to long-term support.

Insufficient Benefits for Long-Term Non-Retirees: Veterans who serve under 20 years often receive minimal to no retirement benefits, despite long commitments and multiple deployments.

Administrative Gaps: Many programs, while helpful, are underfunded, poorly publicized, or difficult to access—especially for veterans in rural or underserved areas.

Proposed Legislation

1. Veterans Housing and Dignity Act

Key Provisions:

- Federal Investment in Supportive Housing: Allocate $5 billion over 5 years to fund 100,000 permanent supportive housing units targeted to veterans, with priority for those who are homeless or at risk.

- Rental Assistance Vouchers: Expand the HUD-VASH program to reduce wait times and cover all qualifying veterans.

- Partnerships with Nonprofits and Faith-Based Coalitions: Federal grants for organizations that provide wraparound services including case management, mental health, and employment support.

2. Veterans Service Dividend Act

Key Provisions:

- Monthly Benefit: $1,200/month for veterans with 10+ years of combined active or reserve service, indexed to inflation.

- Eligibility: Must have received an honorable or general discharge. Combat experience not required.

- No Means Testing: This is not welfare—it’s a dividend earned through service.

- Survivor Transfer Option: Surviving spouses or dependent children may receive a reduced benefit for up to 5 years.

Funding and Feasibility

Projected Cost:

- Housing and Dignity Act: $5 billion over 5 years

- Service Dividend: $20–30 billion annually (depending on uptake rate)

Offset Options:

- Reallocation of unused defense procurement funds

- Repeal of certain corporate tax loopholes

- Windfall tax on defense contractors exceeding 20% profit margins on federal contracts

National Security and Moral Imperative

Failing our veterans undermines national morale and recruitment. A robust post-service safety net enhances force readiness by assuring service members—and their families—that their country will stand by them after service ends.

Call to Action

I am calling on members of Congress, veterans’ organizations, and everyday Americans to join us in demanding action. Through the Unified Advocacy and Leadership Coalition (UALC), we are building a coalition to end performative patriotism and replace it with real, restorative policy.