Massachusetts Senate Passes Shelter Time Limit Bill Amid Migrant Crisis

The legislation aims to manage shelter stays while allocating $850 million to the system, moving to Governor Healey for approval.

The Massachusetts Senate has passed a bill limiting the maximum stay for homeless families in emergency shelters to nine months, with potential extensions for certain groups.
The bill allocates roughly $850 million for the emergency shelter system, with provisions for a gradual reduction in funding over time.
Critics argue the measure could lead to more families on the streets and emphasize the need for a more flexible approach to shelter exits.
The legislation is part of a broader effort to address the migrant crisis in Massachusetts, which has seen a significant increase in the number of people seeking shelter.
The bill now moves to a conference committee before expected approval by Governor Maura Healey.