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HD 2282

An Act establishing a special commission to investigate and study the feasibility of dedicated senior shelters in Massachusetts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sean Reid

Establishes a MA special commission to study feasibility of dedicated senior shelters and report recommendations by 12/31/2026.

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Bill Summary · HD 2282

Summary: An Act establishing a special commission to investigate and study the feasibility of dedicated senior shelters in Massachusetts (HD 2282)

Overview

  • Purpose: Establish a special commission within the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to investigate and study the feasibility of dedicated senior-specific shelters in Massachusetts. The commission would assess the needs of homeless seniors, evaluate current resources, and propose actionable recommendations to address gaps in services and housing for older adults.
  • Basis: Amends Chapter 19A (as appearing in the 2022 Official Edition) by adding a new Section 45.

Key Provisions

  • Scope of study (Section 45(b))
    The commission will examine:

    • Prevalence and causes of homelessness and housing insecurity among seniors (individuals over 60).
    • Current shelter resources and the unique physical, mental, and social needs of seniors experiencing homelessness.
    • Feasibility of senior-specific shelters: potential locations, sizes, and services.
    • Funding mechanisms (federal grants, state appropriations, municipal partnerships, private sponsorships, and other revenue sources).
    • Models and best practices from other states/localities, focusing on staffing, health and mental health services, nutrition, and community-based programs.
    • Roles of government agencies, nonprofits, advocacy groups, healthcare providers, and community leaders.
    • Legislative/regulatory changes needed to support creation and operation (zoning, licensing, staff training, data collection, reporting).

  • Commission composition (Section 45(c))
    The commission shall include, without compensation:

    • Secretary of Elder Affairs (chair); Secretary of Health and Human Services; Secretary of Housing and Economic Development.
    • Two Senate members appointed by the President of the Senate (one from the Joint Committee on Elder Affairs).
    • Two House members appointed by the Speaker (one from the Joint Committee on Elder Affairs).
    • Commissioner of Public Health.
    • Executive Director of the Massachusetts Municipal Association or designee.
    • Two representatives from nonprofit elder/homelessness organizations (appointed by the Governor).
    • One representative from a statewide shelter providers’ coalition.
    • Two Governor-appointed members with demonstrated expertise in senior issues, housing policy, or social services.

  • Operation (Section 45(d))
    The commission may assemble as soon as practicable, request information from state agencies, hold public hearings, gather testimony, and travel within Massachusetts.

  • Reporting and dissolution (Section 45(e)-(f))

    • Report due by December 31, 2026 to the Senate and House clerks, the Joint Committee on Elder Affairs, and Ways and Means; report to be publicly available on the General Court website.
    • The commission dissolves 30 days after submitting its report.

  • Effective date (Section 2)
    The act takes effect upon passage.

Who Is Affected

  • State agencies (e.g., Elder Affairs, Health and Human Services, Housing and Economic Development, Public Health) potentially to provide information and support.
  • Seniors experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.
  • Shelter providers, nonprofits, healthcare and social service organizations, and local governments involved in elder care and homelessness services.
  • General public, via the eventual public report and any resulting policy changes or funding.

Timeline and Process

  • Filed January 15, 2025; introduced in the 194th General Court (2025-2026).
  • Commission to organize promptly after appointment.
  • Final report due by December 31, 2026.
  • Commission dissolves 30 days after submission of the report.
  • Takes effect upon passage.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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