This bill appropriates a total of $24 million to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027, specifically aimed at supporting homeless prevention, rehousing, and shelter services. The funding includes $12 million each year for contracting with nonprofits that provide a continuum of services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, as well as an additional $3 million each year for a housing stabilization fund to assist with eviction prevention and rehousing services. The bill also allows the DHHS to accept and expend any matching federal funds without prior approval from the fiscal committee of the general court, thereby streamlining the process for accessing additional resources.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the renewal of the 1915(i) Medicaid state plan amendment to sustain a Medicaid benefit for supportive housing services. The DHHS is required to implement this new Medicaid benefit and report on its progress to the legislature by November 1, 2025, and November 1, 2026. While the bill does not authorize new positions, it is noted that the DHHS may need to create two new staff positions to manage the increased workload associated with the funding and services provided. The effective date of the act is set for July 1, 2025.