The bill proposes appropriations for fiscal year 2025 to supplement existing funds and address various public needs, particularly focusing on emergency housing assistance. It establishes that the appropriated sums will be available through the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, and outlines specific allocations, including $425 million for supportive services and safe shelter for unhoused families. The bill also introduces new requirements for adult applicants of emergency housing assistance, mandating the disclosure of prior criminal convictions, while ensuring that sealed or expunged convictions do not need to be disclosed. Additionally, it stipulates that the executive office must obtain criminal offender record information for applicants before placement in the program.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws regarding eligibility and duration of benefits for families and pregnant women receiving emergency housing assistance. It sets a limit of six consecutive months for benefits, with provisions for extensions based on hardship, and requires the executive office to provide advance notice before terminating benefits. The bill also emphasizes the importance of verifying residency and eligibility criteria for applicants, including income limits and family composition. Notably, it establishes a cap on the total capacity of the emergency housing assistance program, limiting it to 4,000 families from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 23B-30