Massachusetts governor declares state of emergency over migrant influx straining shelters
- Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey declared a state of emergency due to a surge of migrants overwhelming the state's emergency shelter system.
- The state is currently housing over 20,000 migrants and others in shelters, an 80% increase from last year.
- Healey called for federal funding and assistance, expedited work permits for migrants, and help securing more permanent housing.
- Many migrants are arriving in Massachusetts from other states, with over 50 families landing in just the past 48 hours.
- Massachusetts has a "right-to-shelter" law requiring the state to provide housing for all eligible families, contributing to the strain.