An Act relative to residential assistance for families in transition (RAFT)

This bill creates the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program to prevent homelessness for low-income households at risk of eviction, foreclosure, or utility shut-off. It directly affects families with children under 21, elders, people with disabilities, and unaccompanied youth earning at or below area median income, with 50% of funds reserved for households earning 30% or less of the area median income. The program provides cash benefits covering past-due rent/mortgage (arrearages) or future housing costs (up to 12 months’ rent), and requires coordination with housing agencies to streamline applications. An annual report must track referrals, applications, demographics, and housing outcomes for legislative review.