The bill amends Title 42 of the General Laws by adding a new chapter, Chapter 167.3, which focuses on the establishment and regulation of emergency shelters for homeless individuals. It defines key terms such as "emergency shelter" and outlines the responsibilities of the executive office of housing, which is tasked with creating a licensing application for these shelters by January 1, 2027. The bill stipulates that licenses will be issued at no cost and will remain the property of the state, with specific conditions regarding their transferability. Additionally, shelters created in response to natural disasters or similar events are exempt from these licensing requirements.

The legislation sets forth minimum standards that licensed emergency shelters must adhere to, including ensuring safety for residents, providing access to drinking water and bathroom facilities as required by the state building code, and developing written policies regarding resident privacy and confidentiality. It mandates the creation of a grievance procedure for individuals who have stayed in or sought shelter, which must be visibly posted in the facilities. Furthermore, the bill prohibits any fees for shelter services or personal care items, although it allows for the management of resident funds for financial literacy purposes. The act will take effect upon passage.