appropriation; housing assistance; elderly

HB 2561 appropriates $7 million from Arizona's general fund for fiscal year 2026-2027 to provide housing assistance to Arizonans aged 60 or older. The funds will be distributed by the Department of Economic Security to local area agencies on aging established under the federal Older Americans Act. This bill creates a dedicated funding stream for housing help (like rent or utility assistance) for seniors, intended to continue annually in future budgets. The appropriation is exempt from standard rules requiring annual re-approval, ensuring the funds remain available without needing yearly legislative action.