Metro East Sun

The House of Representatives has passed H.R. 1815, the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act, which aims to establish a partial claim program at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This program is designed to assist veterans who are behind on their mortgage payments. The bill also allocates appropriate funding for the VA Grant and Per Diem program, supporting community agencies that aid homeless veterans.

Chairman Mike Bost (R-Ill.) expressed his satisfaction with the bill's passage, stating, "Our bill is a fiscally responsible solution to ensure that veterans in financial hardship have access to the tools they need to stay in their homes." He anticipates bipartisan support in the Senate and hopes for President Trump's approval.

Economic Opportunity Chairman Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.) highlighted the cost-effectiveness of this approach compared to previous programs. He stated, “This program has worked in the past, keeps vets and their families in their homes, and does so at a fraction of the cost of the horrific VASP program.”

Bob Broeksmit from the Mortgage Bankers Association emphasized the urgency of implementing a permanent partial claim option. "We applaud the passage of this important bill," he said, noting its alignment with loss mitigation options available through other federal housing agencies.

Rocket Mortgage praised the House's efforts for providing protections similar to those available to other homeowners. "This legislation will enable the VA to develop a strong, sustainable solution," a spokesperson noted.

Kathryn Monet from the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans encouraged swift action by the Senate. She remarked on Congress's commitment through The Elizabeth Dole Act and urged adequate funding for implementation.

Jim Whaley from Mission Roll Call echoed calls for prompt Senate action, highlighting that H.R. 1815 ensures flexibility without compromising core missions or creating unsustainable programs.