A communication from the Her Excellency the Governor relative to recommendations for additional changes to the Emergency Assistance Shelter System to be included in a supplemental budget pending with the Legislature.

This is not a legislative bill but a gubernatorial communication proposing changes to the Emergency Assistance Shelter System. The Governor recommends modifying eligibility rules to ensure shelter benefits primarily serve Massachusetts residents, including requiring evictions to occur in Massachusetts, verifying residency through documentation (not self-attestation), and limiting "not meant for human habitation" housing eligibility to situations within the state. These changes aim to align the system with its original intent, address operational burdens, and improve fiscal sustainability for Fiscal Year 2026. The proposal would directly affect homeless families seeking shelter by tightening eligibility criteria.