Bill > S1260

This bill modifies an existing law in Chapter 23B of the Massachusetts General Laws to address individuals in the Emergency Assistance (EA) shelter system who have been convicted of or charged with violent felonies or sexual offenses. Specifically, the bill stipulates that such individuals shall become ineligible to continue receiving EA shelter benefits, unless the director of the Massachusetts emergency assistance program provides a written waiver. The key change prevents individuals facing serious criminal charges or convictions from automatically maintaining their shelter assistance, giving the program director discretion to grant continued benefits through a formal waiver process. This provision appears designed to enhance safety and accountability within the emergency shelter system by creating an additional mechanism to remove or restrict shelter access for individuals who have committed violent or sexual offenses, while still preserving a path for potential continued assistance through an official review and waiver process.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1260