Massachusetts House Bill H1515

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/25
• Refer: 2/27/25

Caption

To transform the Commonwealth’s emergency response system and create housing strategies to end the homelessness of unaccompanied adults

Impact

If enacted, the bill mandates a study conducted by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities in collaboration with municipalities and service providers. This study will assess housing needs and shelter capacity statewide, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively. The goal is to prioritize the building of permanent supportive housing solutions, which blend ongoing subsidized housing with necessary support services tailored to the needs of individuals. The implementation plan will not only focus on meeting immediate housing demands but also establish longer-term strategies to alleviate the underlying causes of homelessness.

Summary

House Bill 1515, titled 'An Act to Transform the Commonwealth’s Emergency Response System and Create Housing Strategies to End the Homelessness of Unaccompanied Adults,' focuses on addressing homelessness among unaccompanied adults in Massachusetts. The bill aims to overhaul the state's emergency response system related to housing and provide sustainable strategies to significantly reduce homelessness. It emphasizes the development of permanent supportive housing and seeks to improve existing shelter facilities by transitioning from traditional congregate shelters to non-congregate ones that offer greater privacy and support.

Contention

The key points of contention surrounding H1515 revolve around the management and funding of proposed housing solutions. Advocates for the bill argue that a systematic approach to addressing homelessness, specifically targeting unaccompanied adults and marginalized groups, is essential for the state. However, there are concerns regarding the bill's potential financial implications on state budgets and how quickly the strategies can be implemented. Some legislators may also worry about ensuring that local communities have a say in the deployment of housing solutions, so they can address their unique needs effectively.