Move FM Global News

BOSTON, Massachusetts: As it faces an influx of homeless migrants, Massachusetts will begin limiting the length of stay of homeless families in local shelters from June 1.

After the new law comes into force, families can only stay in shelters for nine months, at the end of which they will be eligible for up to two 90-day extensions under a supplemental budget approved by state lawmakers and signed by Democratic Governor Maura Healey this week.

The state’s Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities must also create a rehousing plan and provide case management for all individuals in shelters after they leave the program. Case plans must be recertified every 60 days so families can remain eligible.

Extensions would be based on circumstances that include employment or participation in a workforce training program, veteran status, imminent placement in housing, and avoiding educational interruptions for children in public school.

Families nearing the end of their limit could be granted a hardship waiver, and the state must provide 90 days’ notice before its ends benefits.

The limits on emergency assistance shelter are “a responsible step to address our capacity and fiscal constraints as Congress has continued to fail to act on immigration reform,” Healey said.

The bill signed by Healey also includes US$251 million for shelter costs for the fiscal year ending June 30, which includes $10 million for approved workforce training programs and $10 million for a tax credit for companies that provide job training to homeless families.

The new law in Massachusetts will also permanently allow COVID-19-era policies such as outdoor dining and craft-made mixed drinks to go.