modifications to comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans during a public health emergency

modifications to comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans during a public health emergency Sec. 20013. (a) Rule of Construction.—In the case of a public health emergency, no authorization of appropriations in section 2016 of title 38, United States Code, may be construed as limiting amounts that may be appropriated for carrying out subchapter II of chapter 20 of such title. (b) Grants and Per Diem Payments.—(1) In the case of a public health emergency, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may waive any limits on— (A) grant amounts under sections 2011 and 2061 of title 38, United States Code; and (B) rates for per diem payments under sections 2012 and 2061 of such title. (2) If the Secretary waives any limit on grant amounts or rates for per diem payments under paragraph (1), notwithstanding section 2012(a)(2)(B) of such title, the maximum rate for per diem payments described in paragraph (1)(B) shall be three times the rate authorized for State homes for domiciliary care under section 1741 of such title. (c) Participant Absence.—Notwithstanding Veterans Health Administration Handbook 1162.01(1), dated July 12, 2013, and amended June 30, 2014, and titled “Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Program”, or any other provision of law, for the duration of a public health emergency, the Secretary— (1) shall waive any requirement to discharge a veteran from the grant and per diem program of the Veterans Health Administration after the veteran is absent for 14 days; and (2) may continue to pay per diem to grant recipients and eligible entities under the program for any additional days of absence when a veteran has already been absent for more than 72 hours.