Los Angeles Speeds Up Housing Vouchers for Homeless Veterans

Reforms aim to reduce wait times and increase placements for veterans seeking homes

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced changes to the city's voucher system that are reducing delays for veterans seeking housing assistance. The updates include consolidating application forms, processing inspections and paperwork simultaneously, and allowing veterans to access housing without forfeiting disability benefits. Bass also launched the 'House Our Vets' initiative to encourage landlords to rent to veterans leaving homelessness.

Why it matters

Homelessness among veterans remains a persistent issue, with many struggling to access stable housing. These reforms aim to streamline the process and get more veterans into homes more quickly, addressing a critical need in the community.

The details

The changes were outlined at a Passo housing development that accepts HUD-VASH vouchers and was expedited under the mayor's Executive Directive 1. Bass appeared alongside veteran Charles Nelson, whose family is housed through the program, and Metro Chief Customer Experience Officer Jennifer Vides. The effort builds on revisions to federal rules that previously required veterans to choose between housing assistance and disability benefits.

  • In 2024, Bass led a bipartisan delegation of mayors to Washington, D.C., seeking revisions to the policy.
  • Federal regulators later approved changes allowing veterans to access housing without forfeiting benefits.

The players

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles who announced the housing voucher reforms and launched the 'House Our Vets' initiative.

Charles Nelson

A veteran whose family is housed through the HUD-VASH program.

Jennifer Vides

The Metro Chief Customer Experience Officer.

Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA)

The agency that has implemented internal reforms to reduce delays in issuing vouchers and approving housing units.

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What they’re saying

“Homelessness among veterans remains a persistent issue, with many struggling to access stable housing. These reforms aim to streamline the process and get more veterans into homes more quickly, addressing a critical need in the community.”

— Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles

What’s next

Veterans seeking housing can contact HACLA at (213) 252-4231 or email [email protected]. Property owners interested in participating can find information at hacla.org/houseourvets.

The takeaway

Los Angeles is taking proactive steps to address veteran homelessness by streamlining the housing voucher process and encouraging landlord participation. These reforms demonstrate the city's commitment to supporting those who have served and ensuring more veterans have access to stable, affordable housing.