The proposed bill, titled "An Act Significantly Alleviating Poverty," seeks to enhance poverty alleviation efforts in Massachusetts through various amendments to existing laws. Key provisions include the requirement for temporary housing assistance providers, schools, and correctional facilities to offer free disposable menstrual products to menstruating individuals, thereby promoting accessibility and reducing stigma. The bill also aims to increase monthly benefit payment standards to at least 50% of the federal poverty level by July 1, 2025, introduces a $1,000 monthly cash stipend for eligible individuals transitioning from foster care, and provides financial assistance to pregnant individuals without dependent children. Additionally, it emphasizes the dissemination of information regarding state and federal tax credits, ensuring multilingual resources are available to the public.

Moreover, the bill establishes a Massachusetts Baby Bonds Trust Fund to support children born on or after July 1, 2024, who receive cash assistance or are in the care of the Department of Children and Families, promoting education, housing, and entrepreneurship opportunities. It also creates a Matched Savings Trust Fund to encourage economic mobility through matched-savings accounts. The legislation includes provisions for improving language access services for individuals with limited English proficiency and disabilities, mandates the automation of sealing criminal records, and establishes an Office of Access and Opportunity to promote equity in state government. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen support for vulnerable populations, enhance labor protections, and foster community-driven strategies to reduce poverty in Massachusetts.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 118-2, 117A-1, 118A-7, 119A-2, 149-27C, 151-19, 6-172, 276-100A, 18-2