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S 996

An Act to secure housing for returning citizens

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Adam Gómez

Massachusetts bill providing dedicated housing assistance for formerly incarcerated individuals returning to communities to reduce recidivism and support successful reentry.

Accompanied a new draft, see S2764
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Bill Summary · S 996

Legislative bill overview

S 996 is a Massachusetts bill designed to provide housing assistance and support specifically for individuals returning to society after incarceration. The bill addresses the challenge that formerly incarcerated people face in securing stable housing, which is a known barrier to successful reintegration and reducing recidivism.

Why is this important

Housing instability among returning citizens is strongly correlated with higher recidivism rates and difficulty maintaining employment. By creating dedicated housing programs or resources for this population, the state aims to improve public safety outcomes and reduce the burden on the criminal justice system while supporting successful community reentry.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Questions about budget allocation, whether new funding is required or if existing housing programs will be reallocated, and whether taxpayers support dedicating housing resources to this specific population
  • Housing priority and fairness: Debate over whether formerly incarcerated individuals should receive prioritized or preferential housing access compared to other vulnerable populations facing homelessness or housing insecurity
  • Community concerns: Potential opposition from some neighborhoods regarding the location of housing programs and concerns about public safety and property values in surrounding areas

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

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