Bill > S2493

This bill modifies Section 5 of Chapter 115 of the Massachusetts General Laws to establish an annual adjustment mechanism for the shelter allowance provided to veterans. Specifically, the bill requires the Secretary to increase the shelter allowance each year, starting July 1st, by a percentage equal to the rise in the United States Consumer Price Index (CPI) from January 1st of the previous year to January 1st of the current year. Additionally, the Secretary can recommend an extra percentage increase, which must then be approved by the state legislature through an appropriation. The CPI is a measure of the average change in prices paid by urban consumers for goods and services, which helps track inflation. By tying the shelter allowance to the CPI, the bill aims to ensure that the financial support for veterans keeps pace with increases in the cost of living, providing more stable and responsive housing assistance.

Military Affairs and Security

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2493