Bill > H215

This bill aims to expand support services for children experiencing homelessness by modifying existing laws to provide more comprehensive assistance. Specifically, the bill ensures that families in temporary emergency shelters or meeting the McKinney-Vento Homelessness Assistance Act definition of homelessness can access child care assistance vouchers, regardless of work requirements typically imposed by the department of transitional assistance. Additionally, the bill guarantees that children ages zero to three years in these situations will be eligible for early intervention services for one year, beginning from their entry into a shelter or receipt of a homelessness verification letter. The McKinney-Vento Act, a federal law, provides protections and support for homeless individuals, and in this context, the bill uses its definition to determine eligibility. The legislation requires relevant departments to adopt necessary regulations and remove procedural barriers within 90 days of the act's effective date, demonstrating a commitment to quickly implementing these supportive measures for vulnerable families and young children experiencing homelessness.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H215