Bill > H1469

This bill proposes to strengthen the HomeBASE program by expanding housing stability support for families in Massachusetts. Specifically, the bill creates a new short-term housing transition program that provides up to $50,000 in assistance during the first 24 months and up to $25,000 in subsequent 12-month periods for eligible families. The program removes several existing barriers to support, including eliminating income eligibility restrictions once a family is enrolled and removing the requirement that families must be evicted or fall into specific categorical eligibility for emergency shelter. Families can now apply for benefits if they are facing a "no fault" eviction and can receive assistance even after a court summons has been filed. The program prioritizes families with children under 21 or pregnant individuals and allows families to combine this assistance with other residential support funds if needed to promote housing stability. Importantly, families who successfully comply with their initial rehousing plan can receive renewable allotments of assistance, creating a more flexible and supportive approach to preventing homelessness.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1469