Bill > S979

This bill proposes to modify the existing emergency housing assistance program by adding a residency requirement that restricts eligibility only to individuals who have lived in Massachusetts for at least one year. Specifically, the bill amends Section 30 of chapter 23B of the General Laws to mandate that the emergency housing assistance program can now exclusively serve residents who have been continuous inhabitants of the commonwealth for a minimum of 12 months, regardless of any existing laws, rules, or regulations that might previously have allowed broader access. This change effectively limits the program's scope and creates a significant barrier for newly arrived homeless families seeking emergency housing support, potentially impacting vulnerable populations who may have recently moved to Massachusetts for various reasons such as job opportunities, family reunification, or escaping difficult living situations in other states.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S979