Bill > S988

This bill aims to transform Massachusetts' emergency response system and address homelessness by requiring the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) to conduct comprehensive studies and develop strategic housing plans. Specifically, the bill mandates an objective study to determine future shelter and housing demand, including calculating housing capacity ratios for each municipality. The EOHLC must develop a five-year implementation plan to build permanent supportive housing and non-congregate shelter solutions, with the goal of reducing reliance on traditional congregate (mass dormitory-style) shelters. The bill requires the EOHLC to create an inventory of existing congregate shelters, assess their conversion potential, and develop a targeted housing strategy for unaccompanied adults experiencing homelessness. The plan will prioritize vulnerable populations such as elderly, disabled, medically complex, and LGBTQ+ individuals, and explore innovative housing solutions like modular construction, micro-units, and repurposed hotels. The EOHLC must submit detailed plans to the joint committee on housing and continuums of care within one year of the section's effective date, with the ultimate objective of ending homelessness for chronic and medically complex individuals.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S988