Simplifying Veterans Assistance Act of 2025
The Simplifying Veterans Assistance Act of 2025 would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to improve guidance and information available to organizations applying for grants to run comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans. Specifically, the bill adds a new requirement to provide publicly accessible guidance and best practices on VA’s website and to host at least two online information sessions after a funding notice is issued and before the grant application deadline. Each session must last at least an hour, allow for questions, explain the grant language, and point applicants to additional information and assistance sources. The goal is to make the grant process clearer and more accessible for potential applicants. In short, the bill focuses on improving transparency and support for organizations seeking VA grants to operate homeless-veteran services, with an emphasis on early, live, and interactive guidance in conjunction with grant announcements.
Key Points
- 1Public guidance and best practices: The Secretary must publish guidance and best practices for grant applicants seeking projects under the homeless veterans comprehensive service programs on the VA website.
- 2Online information sessions: After a funding notice is issued and before the application deadline, the Secretary must offer at least two online information sessions.
- 3Session details: Each information session must last at least one hour, include a Q&A on the grant application process, explain the specific language in the grant application, and provide information about other information sources and applying assistance.
- 4Legislative change: The amendment adds a new subsection (2) to 38 U.S.C. § 2011(e) (and renames the subsection heading to include “and Process”).
- 5Purpose and scope: The bill is titled the Simplifying Veterans Assistance Act of 2025 and aims to streamline and clarify the grant application process for comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.