Bill > S117

This bill proposes to amend Chapter 18 of the Massachusetts General Laws by adding a new section that requires the Department of Transitional Assistance to provide basic needs benefits to certain immigrants residing in Massachusetts. Specifically, the bill would extend cash assistance and nutritional support to lawful permanent residents and other immigrants permanently residing in the United States, even if they do not meet current immigration status requirements for such programs. The benefits would include cash assistance for children, pregnant women, and caretaker adults (similar to existing benefits under Chapter 118), as well as nutritional assistance (similar to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP). Crucially, these benefits would be provided at the same levels and subject to the same requirements as existing state programs, with the only difference being the removal of immigration status and citizenship barriers. This legislation aims to provide essential support to immigrant populations who are currently ineligible for state assistance programs due to their immigration status, ensuring they can access critical financial and nutritional support.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S117