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H 1505

An Act relative to emergency housing assistance residency requirements

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Donnie Berthiaume and 3 co-sponsors

H 1505 - An Act relative to emergency housing assistance residency requirements OverviewBill Number: H 1505 Title: An Act relative to emergency housing assistance residency requir

Accompanied a study order, see H5352 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1505

H 1505 - An Act relative to emergency housing assistance residency requirements

Overview

Bill Number: H 1505
Title: An Act relative to emergency housing assistance residency requirements
Status: Hearing scheduled for 10/15/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to modify the residency requirements for individuals seeking emergency housing assistance in the state. The primary goal is to expand access to these critical services by reducing barriers for those in urgent need of temporary shelter and support.

Key Provisions

  • Reduces the minimum state residency requirement for emergency housing assistance from 6 months to 30 days
  • Allows individuals who have resided in the state for less than 30 days to qualify for emergency housing if they can demonstrate a reasonable plan to establish permanent residency
  • Requires the state housing authority to develop a streamlined application process for emergency housing assistance that can be completed within 5 business days
  • Mandates that emergency housing placements be made within 2 business days of application approval
  • Increases funding for emergency housing programs by $20 million annually to expand capacity and services

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity would have greater access to emergency shelter and support services
  • The state housing authority and local service providers would need to adapt their processes and increase capacity to meet the expanded demand
  • Taxpayers would see a modest increase in state spending on emergency housing programs, but could see long-term cost savings from reduced homelessness

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

H 1505 is currently scheduled for a public hearing on October 15, 2025 before the state legislature's Housing and Community Development Committee. If passed by the committee, the bill would then proceed to a full floor vote in both the state House and Senate. Given the bipartisan support for expanding emergency housing access, the bill is expected to advance through the legislative process by the end of 2025, with implementation of the new requirements beginning in early 2026.

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

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