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H 215

An Act supporting the development of children experiencing homelessness

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 2 co-sponsors

Bill H 215 ensures homeless families in Massachusetts access childcare and early intervention services, promoting vulnerable children's development and well-being.

Accompanied a new draft, see H5090
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Bill Summary · H 215

Summary of Bill H 215: An Act Supporting the Development of Children Experiencing Homelessness

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 215 aims to enhance support for children experiencing homelessness in Massachusetts by providing access to essential early childhood services. The legislation seeks to ensure that families in temporary emergency shelters can receive childcare assistance and early intervention services, thereby promoting the development and well-being of vulnerable children.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to Chapter 15D of the General Laws, specifically focusing on the eligibility criteria for childcare assistance and early intervention services:

  1. Childcare Assistance Vouchers:

    • Families placed in temporary emergency assistance shelters will be eligible for the Department of Early Education and Care's homeless childcare assistance vouchers upon arrival at the shelter and at any time during their stay, regardless of work requirements.
    • Families meeting the McKinney-Vento Homelessness Assistance Act definition of homelessness will also qualify for these vouchers without needing to meet work requirements.

  2. Verification for Childcare Referrals:

    • A letter verifying shelter residency will allow families to receive full-time childcare referrals from the Department of Transitional Assistance.

  3. Early Intervention Services:

    • Children aged zero to three years from families entering shelters or receiving verification letters under the McKinney-Vento Act will qualify for early intervention services.
    • This qualification will last for one year after exiting the shelter or until the child turns three, whichever comes first.
    • Evaluations for early intervention services must occur within 30 days of entry into the shelter or receipt of the verification letter.

  4. Regulatory Framework:

    • The Department of Early Education and Care is required to adopt regulations or policies to eliminate procedural barriers for implementing this act within 90 days of its effective date.

Affected Parties

  • Families Experiencing Homelessness: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are families with children who are experiencing homelessness, particularly those in temporary shelters.
  • Early Childhood Service Providers: The bill will impact organizations and professionals involved in providing childcare and early intervention services.

Procedural Aspects

  • Hearing Scheduled: A hearing for Bill H 215 is scheduled for November 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room A-2.
  • Legislative Timeline:
    • Introduced on February 27, 2025.
    • Referred to the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities on the same date.
    • The Senate has concurred with the bill.

Sponsors

  • Primary Sponsor: Marjorie C. Decker
  • Cosponsors: Estela A. Reyes, James B. Eldridge

Related Bills

  • The bill is associated with House Docket No. 3210, which it replaces.

This legislation represents a critical step towards addressing the needs of children in precarious living situations, ensuring they have access to necessary educational and developmental resources.

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

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