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S 2497

An Act relative to shelter benefits for veterans

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul McMurtry and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill S 2497 would establish or expand shelter benefits for veterans facing housing insecurity, pending committee review and July 2025 hearing.

Hearing scheduled for 07/22/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2
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Bill Summary · S 2497

Legislative bill overview

S 2497 proposes to establish or expand shelter benefit programs specifically for Massachusetts veterans. The bill was introduced by representatives Steve Xiarhos, Mike Rush, and Paul McMurtry and is currently under review by the Veterans and Federal Affairs Committee, with a hearing scheduled for July 22, 2025.

Why is this important

Veteran homelessness and housing insecurity remain significant challenges in Massachusetts and nationwide. Dedicated shelter benefits could provide critical safety-net support for veterans experiencing housing crises, potentially reducing chronic homelessness and improving health outcomes within this vulnerable population.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: The bill's funding source is not specified in available records, raising questions about budget impact and whether existing programs would be reallocated or new funding appropriated
  • Eligibility criteria: Details on who qualifies (discharge status, service period, income limits) and whether benefits extend to all veterans or specific subgroups remain unclear
  • Program scope: Uncertainty about whether this creates new benefits, expands existing programs, or coordinates with federal VA housing programs could affect implementation and efficiency

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

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