Bill > H1501

This bill addresses municipal equity within the emergency assistance shelter program through two key provisions. First, it limits the number of individuals in emergency shelters within a municipality to 1% of its population, as determined by the most recent federal census, and requires the executive office to provide at least 24 hours' notice before placing a family in a hotel or motel in a specific municipality. Second, during the state of emergency declared on August 8, 2023, the bill enables residential homeowners to receive weekly rent payments from the commonwealth for sheltering individuals, with payments set at 150% of the monthly fair market rent, adjusted by household size. The bill provides legal protections for homeowners, including limited liability (capped at $10,000 except in cases of gross negligence or intentional acts), exemption from certain legal processes and zoning laws, and eligibility for public programs and funding for dwelling improvements. The provisions related to homeowner sheltering will automatically be repealed once the governor declares an end to the state of emergency, ensuring these measures are temporary and tied directly to the current crisis.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1501