Bill > S1004

This bill establishes the Alternative Housing Voucher Program to provide rental assistance specifically for low-income people with disabilities in Massachusetts. The program will offer mobile and project-based rental vouchers to households with an income at or below 80% of the area median income, where the head of household is between 18 and 62 years old and has a qualifying disability. Voucher amounts will vary based on factors like household size, income, and location. Recipients must pay between 25-30% of their net income for rent, depending on whether utilities are included. The payment standard for dwelling units can range from 110-120% of fair market rent, with potential exceptions for reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. The program allows for advance payments covering first and last month's rent, security deposits, and moving expenses. Importantly, any unspent funding for this program will not revert to the General Fund but will be carried over to the next fiscal year, ensuring continued support for people with disabilities seeking affordable housing. The bill repeals a previous section of law (Section 16 of Chapter 179 of the Acts of 1995) and adds this new comprehensive housing assistance provision to Chapter 121B of the Massachusetts General Laws.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1004