This bill makes appropriations for fiscal year 2025 to supplement existing funds and support various activities and projects, particularly focusing on emergency housing assistance. It establishes that the sums appropriated 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 or beneficiaries of emergency housing assistance, mandating the disclosure of prior criminal convictions, while exempting sealed or expunged records. 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 need for families to demonstrate Massachusetts residency and outlines verification processes for applicants. Notably, it caps the total capacity of the emergency housing assistance program at 4,000 families from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 23B-30