The proposal by Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey to change the state shelter system has generated debate. This proposal is expected to be approved by the state Congress soon.
The main reason for this reform is to address the increase in demand for state shelters due to the arrival of migrants since 2023. The idea is to take measures that ensure the safety of homeless families, as well as to make the shelter system more financially sustainable.
According to statements from the governor, it is proposed that in most cases, all members of a family seeking emergency shelter must be legally in the United States. Additionally, it is suggested to strengthen background checks for those staying in these shelters, with the goal of identifying possible local or other criminal records.
Regarding the length of stay in the shelters, it has been decided to limit the time homeless families can stay to nine months. The proposal also states that applicants must verify their identity, residency, and legal status before being accommodated.
These measures have arisen from security concerns, including serious incidents in the shelters, such as the discovery of drugs and an automatic weapon in one of them. Both Democratic and Republican legislators have expressed their support for this proposal, highlighting the importance of ensuring the financial viability and safety of the shelter system.
This type of change is already being implemented in other cities in the United States, such as New York, Chicago, and Denver, where there has also been an increase in the number of homeless people needing shelter. Governor Healey's proposal seeks to address these challenges and improve the situation for vulnerable families in Massachusetts.
