An Act Relative to the financial health of violence survivors

HD 1655 establishes the Flexible Assistance for Survivors (FAS) pilot grant program to provide direct cash assistance to survivors of violence and their families. Administered by the Department of Public Health, the program funds community-based organizations to distribute flexible payments (e.g., prepaid cards, checks, or bank deposits) to help survivors meet immediate financial needs without strict documentation. It prioritizes organizations serving communities disproportionately impacted by violence and marginalized groups, including survivors of color, undocumented individuals, formerly incarcerated people, and those experiencing homelessness. The advisory committee overseeing the program must minimize paperwork, prioritize accessibility for smaller organizations, and provide technical support to applicants.