This bill amends Chapter 111 of the General Laws by adding a new section, Section 249, which mandates that children aged zero to three years who enter various types of shelters—including temporary emergency assistance shelters, domestic violence shelters, substance abuse and recovery shelters, and non-emergency assistance shelters—be automatically referred for early intervention assessments within thirty days of their entry. The assessments will be conducted according to the operational standards set by the Department of Public Health, and early intervention services will be provided based on the evaluation and determination of need by a qualified professional.

Additionally, the bill requires the Department to adopt necessary regulations or policies and to eliminate any procedural barriers to the implementation of this act within 120 days of its effective date. This aims to streamline the process and ensure that children experiencing homelessness receive timely support and services.