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Bill

HD 4931

An Act relative to expanding access to the Family Self-Sufficiency Program in the commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Hannah Bowen and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expands Family Self-Sufficiency Program access to help more low-income families build savings and achieve economic independence through housing assistance coordination.

Reported, referred to the committee on Joint Rules, reported, rules suspended and referred to the committee on Housing
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 4931

Legislative bill overview

HD 4931 expands access to Massachusetts's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program, which helps low-income families receiving housing assistance build savings and achieve economic independence. The bill modifies eligibility requirements or participation terms to broaden who can benefit from this federally-funded program designed to coordinate housing assistance with employment and financial literacy services.

Why is this important

The FSS Program has demonstrated success in helping families transition away from subsidized housing by combining rental assistance with escrow savings accounts and supportive services. Expanding access could help more low-income Massachusetts families build financial stability and reduce long-term dependence on housing subsidies, though it requires balancing program capacity with available federal funding and administrative resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal funding constraints: FSS programs receive limited federal appropriations; expanding eligibility without corresponding federal funding increases could strain implementation or reduce per-participant services
  • Program capacity and staffing: Expanding access requires case managers and support services; unclear whether municipalities and nonprofits have resources to serve additional participants effectively
  • Definition of "expansion": The bill's specific mechanisms (income thresholds, family size limits, employment requirements) are not detailed in available information, making it unclear which populations gain access and potential unintended consequences

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

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