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Bill

H 1508

An Act repealing the misused and misguided right to shelter law that is unique to Massachusetts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Gaskey

Repeals Massachusetts' unique right-to-shelter law, eliminating the state's legal obligation to provide guaranteed shelter access to eligible homeless individuals.

Accompanied a study order, see H5352 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1508

Legislative bill overview

H 1508 proposes to repeal Massachusetts' right to shelter law, which is unique among U.S. states and legally guarantees shelter access to homeless individuals meeting eligibility criteria. The bill would eliminate this statutory obligation, allowing the state to discontinue its mandated shelter provision system. This represents a significant departure from current Massachusetts law that has been in effect since the 1980s.

Why is this important

Massachusetts' right to shelter law has shaped the state's homeless services infrastructure for over 40 years, creating a legal entitlement that distinguishes it from nearly all other states. Repealing it would fundamentally alter how the state addresses homelessness, potentially reducing service availability and shifting responsibility away from the state. This decision affects thousands of currently sheltered individuals and signals a major policy direction change on poverty and housing security.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Supporters argue repeal reduces state spending; opponents contend elimination of preventive shelter increases costs in emergency services, healthcare, and criminal justice
  • Vulnerability concerns: Critics worry unhoused populations—including families, children, and individuals with disabilities—will face street homelessness; supporters argue alternative interventions are more effective
  • Constitutional questions: Legal scholars debate whether repeal could violate state constitutional protections and existing case law establishing shelter as a enforceable right

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

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