BOSTON — On Wednesday, the governor of Massachusetts put forth a proposal stipulating that, for the majority of circumstances, all individuals in a family seeking refuge in emergency shelters must be legally residing in the country. This announcement comes amidst heightened concerns regarding the safety conditions within these facilities.
Democratic Governor Maura Healey aims to enhance the screening process for shelter residents by mandating the disclosure of any criminal convictions, both within the state and beyond. Under her proposal, those applying for shelter will need to provide proof of their identity, residency, and legal status prior to being admitted. Currently, applicants can gain placement without having to present any documentation upfront. Furthermore, the proposal limits access to those who have faced eviction specifically within Massachusetts, excluding those from other states.
“I believe these changes are appropriate and necessary to ensure the long-term viability of our state shelter system, aligning with the law’s original intent,” Healey stated. “These proposed adjustments will enhance the safety of our shelter system, assist municipalities in meeting the needs of homeless families in their areas, and help create a more financially sustainable shelter framework.”
The legislative body will need to approve the governor’s proposal for it to take effect.
The state’s shelter system has faced significant strain due to a dramatic rise in the number of migrants arriving since 2023. Similar issues are being encountered in cities like New York, Chicago, and Denver, contributing to increases in homelessness.
Last year, Healey indicated that families not prioritized for emergency assistance would only be permitted to stay at overflow shelter sites for five days. She explained that stricter eligibility requirements for the emergency assistance system were necessary to address “ongoing capacity constraints” and to secure its financial sustainability.
Additionally, the state limited the duration of stay for homeless families in shelters to nine months, with the possibility of two extensions of 90 days each.
Safety has also become a pressing concern, particularly following an incident earlier this month where a migrant was discovered in a shelter with illegal drugs and a firearm. State records reveal that numerous serious incidents have occurred at these facilities, including cases of sexual assault.
Democratic House Speaker Ronald Mariano expressed that the proposal aligns with ongoing legislative efforts. “Since the beginning of the crisis concerning the shelter system, the House has been proactive in ensuring the long-term financial viability of the Commonwealth’s emergency assistance program, leading to reforms that capped maximum stay lengths and mandated job training for individuals in shelters,” he stated.
Republican lawmakers have utilized these safety issues to criticize the governor’s response to the migrant crisis and have responded positively to Healey’s proposal, noting her apparent readiness to engage in the matter.
“With a growing agreement not just within the legislature but across the Commonwealth regarding the urgent need for significant changes, we have a chance to implement measures that will improve safety, accountability, transparency, and sustainability of the system,” stated Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr.
