Over the last several years housing advocates, politicians, and researchers have tried to address the challenges faced by homeless (unhoused) individuals and families. It is a complex issue that requires cooperation from each group to solve an ongoing problem. Americans that are impacted by short- and long-term housing issues are seeking solutions to ensure that can feed their families, contribute to society, and work.
Often individuals fighting for access to housing are seen and unseen in our society. For example, there are people from different backgrounds that you walk by in the gas station, mall, playground or supermarket who are worried about where they will sleep. This is a serious problem that needs policies that address the current barriers. Recently, states throughout the country including Florida are choosing different steps to solve a problem that has existed for years.
In 2024, Florida passed HB 1365, which requires local governments to address housing encampments in public spaces. Since its passage, leaders throughout the state have attempted to create solutions to avoid various penalties. While for years some areas have committed to addressing the issue, others have struggled to keep pace. For this reason, finding housing for families and veterans that need support should be a priority for officials. Both groups are vulnerable and finding real solutions would help solve a variety of societal issues. Veterans have served the country with honor and deserve our respect and help. According to the National Coalition of Homeless Veterans, more than 32,000 are experiencing homelessness. Lowering this number should be a nationwide priority.
Currently, some areas throughout the state are trying to finding ways to solve the crisis faced by homeless families. Last month, Orange County approved $335,500 in additional funding to provide temporary housing for families at the Samaritan Resource Center. Also, Orlando just broke ground on a $2.4 million dropoff center. These new resources will provide critical housing and mental health support during difficult times. Each example highlights what can happen when you focus on the needs of the entire community.
While there are local efforts to create solutions, some politicians in Tallahassee are taking steps to close the opportunity gap. An example includes Rep. Yvonne Hayes Hinson from Gainesville, who introduced HB 51. The bill includes a tax credit for businesses that provide housing for employees. This innovative approach to current housing issues provides a $2,000 credit. Hinson understands that we need a community-based approach to solving the problem. It reflects her long history of serving her district and the state. I was honored to provide feedback on the bill before it was introduced during my time as an Education Fellow with the Scholar Strategy Network (SSN).
HB 51 could bring together businesses, politicians, and local advocates to support final passage. Ensuring the safety of children, veterans and others should be an issue we all want to solve. I do understand that it will take funding and consistent focus to pass this bill and others. There are no easy answers. For this reason, solving the homeless challenges in the state will require an all-hands-on-deck approach. No person is protected from homelessness. Anyone can experience job loss, health issues or other future emergencies. Fortunately, there are organizations collecting information and providing policy recommendations.
Over the last several years, nonpartisan organizations including the Florida Policy Institute have worked with all policymakers to draft language to address housing challenges among other issues. It is important for policymakers to work with organizations and researchers that collect data and examine current and future trends. These issues will not be solved in isolation by a small number of individuals.
Together we can work to solve the challenges homeless families and veterans face. We all must do our part to fix a national problem.
Larry J. Walker is an associate professor in UCF’s Department of Educational Leadership and Higher Education. Previously, he served as the Legislative Director for former Congressman Major Owens of New York.
https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2026/02/11/commentary-bill-would-create-new-housing-opportunities/
