Bill > H1798

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law regarding eligibility for emergency assistance benefits by adding a new provision that prevents individuals who have been convicted of or charged with a violent felony or sexual offense under Chapter 265 of the Massachusetts General Laws from continuing to receive emergency assistance benefits, unless they obtain a written waiver from the director of the Massachusetts emergency assistance program. The bill essentially creates an additional eligibility restriction for shelter and emergency aid, giving the program director discretion to grant a waiver on a case-by-case basis. This change appears designed to limit access to state-provided shelter and emergency assistance for individuals with certain violent criminal backgrounds, potentially as a public safety measure or to create additional accountability for individuals with serious criminal charges or convictions.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1798