By Bob Katzen

The House 154-0, approved an amendment that would require that veterans in the shelter program are automatically given the maximum length of time to stay in the program, regardless of other factors.

“My amendment prioritizes veterans when it comes to our emergency shelter program,” said amendment sponsor Rep. Dylan Fernandes (D-Falmouth). “While other families will have restrictions on staying in the program based on employment and job training status, this amendment says that veterans in the shelter program are automatically given the maximum length of time to stay in the shelter program, regardless of other factors.

Fernandes continued, “Our state is one that recognizes the selflessness which veterans have served our commonwealth and country and we give priority to veterans in many other state programs. I believe they deserve priority when it comes to shelter and this amendment enshrines that priority.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment giving veterans preference.)

Rep. Christine Barber Yes Rep. Mike Connolly Yes Rep. Paul Donato Yes Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven Yes