Gov. Healey Calls For Drastic Changes To State Right-To-Shelter Law

MASSACHUSETTS - Gov. Maura Healey sent out a letter to the state legislatures' Democratic leaders asking them to pass a series of changes that would in essence end the state's right-to-shelter law as it currently exists, including mandatory criminal background disclosures, removing the 20-mile radius placement requirement and requiring proof of eviction from a home in Massachusetts.

The letter comes on the heels of Healey ordering an inspection of all state shelters after three assault rifles and a large amount of fentanyl were found in a Revere location.

Last week, the Globe reported that the governor said the state would perform full criminal background checks on each person residing in the emergency shelter system - a population that is in the thousands.

"I have evaluated the Right to Shelter Law and regulations as well as the operational burdens on the system," Healey said in the letter. "Based on that review, and in the face of continued inaction by Congress and no assistance from the federal government, I believe these changes are appropriate and needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the state shelter system in a way that aligns with the original intent of the law."

Healey's proposed changes to the current system are as follows:

• Requirement for evictions to occur in Massachusetts to support eligibility.
• Narrowing the scope for which eligible residents in a situation "not meant for human habitation" can seek shelter within the state.
• Adjustment to presumptive eligibility, including verification of identity, residency and other criteria prior to replacement.
• Anyone receiving emergency assistance must show an intent to remain in Massachusetts.
• Families will be ineligible when their income exceeds 200% of the Federal Poverty Limit (FPL) for three months. The previous limit was six months.
• All individuals must demonstrate they are a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or are here under the color of law. Previously, only one individual in the household had to demonstrate such.
• Proposed removal of the mandatory 20 mile requirement. Formerly, HLC was required to place a family within 20 miles of the household's home community.
• Adult applicants will be required to disclose criminal convictions in Mass. and elsewhere. Previously, applicants had to disclose such information if it pertained to a recent eviction that caused homelessness.

The full letter can be read at this link here.