Bill > H1481

This bill establishes the Alternative Housing Voucher Program to provide rental assistance specifically designed for low-income persons with disabilities. The program will offer mobile and project-based vouchers administered by local housing authorities and regional housing agencies. To be eligible, households must have an income at or below 80% of the area median income, with the head of household being between 18 and 62 years old and having a disability as defined by the bill (which includes physical or mental impairments that substantially limit major life activities). Participants will be required to pay between 25-30% of their net income for rent, depending on whether utilities are included. The voucher payment standards are set between 110-120% of fair market rent, with the possibility of exceptions for reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. The program allows for advance payments that can cover first and last month's rent, security deposits, and moving expenses. Importantly, any unused funding for the program will not revert to the General Fund but will be carried forward to the next fiscal year, ensuring continued support for affordable housing for persons with disabilities. The bill also repeals a previous section of law (Section 16 of Chapter 179 of the Acts of 1995) to make way for this new program.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1481