Bill > S976

This bill amends Chapter 23B of the General Laws to enhance security in the Emergency Housing Assistance Program by mandating comprehensive background checks for all program applicants aged 18 and older. The background checks will include state and federal criminal history checks, sex offender registry screenings, and verification of outstanding warrants or pending criminal charges. The executive office will work with multiple agencies including the department of criminal justice information services, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to verify background information and immigration status. Importantly, applicants with pending charges or convictions for violent crimes, drug trafficking, or sex offenses will be automatically disqualified from participating in the program. The executive office is also required to develop and implement specific regulations to enforce these new background check requirements, ensuring a more rigorous screening process for emergency housing assistance.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S976