An Act allowing certain minors to consent to shelter and supportive services

This bill amends Massachusetts law to allow unaccompanied homeless youth between the ages of 15 and 18 to consent to their own shelter and supportive services without parental permission. It defines eligible services as resources for housing, education, employment, and emotional well-being, while specifying that a youth qualifies if they lack a fixed residence or face significant danger of homelessness. To access these services, a service provider must reasonably believe the minor understands the benefits, risks, and rules of the program and that the assistance is necessary for their safety. The legislation also permits a minor parent to consent to services for their own child under the same conditions.