Massachusetts Senator Dooner introduces several acts concerning migrants, emergency housing as funding is running out

Boston, MA – Senator Dooner (R-Taunton) has filed legislation aimed at reforming Massachusetts’ Right to Shelter law in response to the ongoing migrant crisis.

Dooner’s Office states that the proposed reforms aim to alleviate the strain on the state’s emergency shelter system by ensuring resources are allocated fairly and responsibly while prioritizing the needs of Massachusetts residents.

“The current shelter system is overwhelmed and unsustainable, it is evident that our Right to Shelter law needs to be reformed to address the realities our Commonwealth is facing” said Senator Dooner. “We must ensure that our shelter system remains safe, transparent, and accessible for our residents, especially our veterans, seniors, and vulnerable families.”

SD1186, An Act enhancing security in emergency housing programs: Establishes background checks for all applicants 18 and older before admission to the emergency housing assistance program. Requires coordination with federal offices, and applicants with pending charges or convictions for violent crimes, drug trafficking, or sex offenses will be deemed ineligible for program participation.

SD1185, An Act establishing residency requirements for emergency housing assistance: Restricts eligibility for the emergency housing assistance program to U.S. citizens and lawfully present immigrants with at least 12 months of continuous Massachusetts residency. It also requires applicants to show US resident-specific documentation (Real ID, passport, pay stubs, valid Green Card, etc.) and establish cross-agency verification to prevent fraud and enforce compliance.

SD1183, An Act establishing liability coverage for facilities lodging individuals in the emergency shelter program: Requires hotels and lodging facilities participating in the emergency housing program to have liability and property damage insurance, holding them responsible for occupant-caused damages. It enforces compliance through contract termination, financial penalties, and disqualification from future state contracts.

SD1182, An Act promoting intergovernmental cooperation on criminal enforcement: Requires the Executive Office of Livable Communities to cooperate with federal agencies to report and detain nonresident migrants or asylum seekers charged with or convicted of serious crimes.

Bill SD1180, An Act reforming incentives for landlords: Prohibits the Commonwealth from giving landlords bonuses to prioritize housing of migrants over families with legal residence.

Bill SD1176, An Act establishing emergency shelter priorities: Establishes priority access to emergency shelter assistance for veterans, elderly persons, and families with legal residence in the Commonwealth who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

“Massachusetts residents deserve a shelter system that is not only responsive to emergency needs but also safe, transparent and accountable, especially given the over the estimated $1 billion already spent on this crisis,” Senator Dooner continued. “We cannot afford to operate a shelter system that is overloaded. To this day, we still have not received a briefing of where funds are being spent, I urge my colleagues to join me in advancing these necessary reforms for the good of the Commonwealth.”

According to MASSterList, Gov. Healey’s proposal to plug the emergency shelter system with $425 million in extra cash is still sitting in the House. Without action, when providers begin requesting payment next week, the state will have no funds to pay them.