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Bill

SD 2190

An Act promoting housing stability for families by strengthening the HomeBASE program

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Liz Miranda

Strengthens Massachusetts HomeBASE rental assistance program to expand housing stability support for families experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 2190

Legislative bill overview

SD 2190 strengthens Massachusetts's HomeBASE program, which provides rental assistance and supportive services to families experiencing homelessness or housing instability. The bill aims to expand program capacity, improve access to benefits, and enhance support services for vulnerable households to help them achieve stable housing.

Why is this important

Housing instability and homelessness have significant public health, education, and economic costs. Strengthening rental assistance programs can reduce entries into emergency shelters, improve student attendance and academic outcomes, and help families maintain economic self-sufficiency. The HomeBASE program is a primary state mechanism for addressing these issues.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Expanding the program requires state funding; legislators may debate whether new appropriations are justified or affordable given other budget priorities
  • Program scope and eligibility: Questions about who qualifies, income thresholds, and duration of assistance—broader eligibility helps more people but increases costs
  • Implementation capacity: Whether the state can effectively administer an expanded program without creating delays or administrative burdens on both agencies and applicants

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

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