Bill > H1305

This bill aims to create affordable homes for persons with disabilities. The key provisions are as follows: 1. It strikes Section 16 of Chapter 179 of the Acts of 1995 and any associated regulations in 760 C.M.R. 53, which likely refers to a previous law or program. 2. It amends Chapter 121B of the General Laws by adding a new Section 61, which establishes the Alternative Housing Voucher Program. This program will provide rental assistance for low-income individuals with disabilities through mobile and project-based vouchers, with the voucher amounts set by the Department based on factors such as household size and income. 3. To be eligible for the program, a household must have an income not exceeding 80% of the area median income, and the head of the household must be a person with a disability between the ages of 18 and 62. 4. The bill sets guidelines for the payment standards and the maximum rent contribution by the household, as well as allowing for exceptions and additional assistance such as the first month's rent, security deposit, and moving expenses. 5. The Department is required to promulgate regulations to implement the program, and any unspent funding will be carried over to the next fiscal year rather than reverting to the General Fund.