Bill > S2829

This bill strengthens the HomeBASE program by expanding short-term housing assistance for families eligible for emergency shelter, providing comprehensive support to help families maintain or secure housing. The bill allows families to receive up to 12 months of housing stabilization and economic self-sufficiency case management services, with the potential for renewable 12-month allotments. Critically, the legislation ensures that families will not become ineligible for assistance if their income increases, and they will not be disqualified due to a single violation of their self-sufficiency plan. The bill permits families to apply for assistance even if they are facing eviction for no-fault reasons and allows them to combine benefits from different housing assistance programs. The executive office of housing and livable communities can provide household assistance up to $50,000 in the first 24 months and $25,000 in subsequent 12-month periods, with potential for higher caps through annual appropriations. The bill also allows landlords to apply on behalf of their tenants and requires the executive office to establish clear eligibility categories for emergency assistance shelter. The legislation mandates that regulations for implementing these changes must be promulgated by December 31, 2027, ensuring a structured approach to enhancing housing stability for vulnerable families.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Housing (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2829