Massachusetts governor proposes that migrants in shelter be in country legally The governor of Massachusetts on Wednesday proposed that at least one member of a family staying in emergency shelters be in the country legally, hardening her stance at a time when concerns are being raised about the safety at the facilties.
“In addition, these proposed changes will allow us to continue to ensure the safety of our system, support cities and towns in addressing the needs of unhoused families in their communities and put us on the path toward a more fiscally sustainable shelter system.”.
"I believe these changes are appropriate and needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the state shelter system in a way that aligns with the original intent of the law,” Healey said in a statement.
Healey said she was tightening restrictions on emergency assistance system eligibility because of the system’s “continuing capacity constraints” and the need to protect its financial sustainability.
Maura Healey also is looking to strengthening background checks for anyone staying at the shelter by disclosing criminal convictions in the state and elsewhere.
