By Bob Katzen

The Senate 12-27, rejected an amendment that would require the state take into account an individual’s length of residency in Massachusetts when determining priority in securing emergency shelter.

“While this amendment is not a residency requirement, it would’ve made sure those who have demonstrated a longer commitment to the commonwealth are prioritized for extended stays in the commonwealth’s emergency shelter system,” said Sen. Mike Moore (D-Millbury) who voted for the amendment. “To be clear, there are important exceptions to this rule – those who are at imminent risk of harm due to domestic violence and those who are making progress toward work authorization will not be skipped over. This strikes me as a reasonable compromise to ensure our emergency shelter system is available to Bay Staters who need it first, while preserving the spirit of the law that maintains Massachusetts as a place that is welcoming to all.”

Amendment opponents said this would essentially create an unfair residency requirement that would have Bay State residents competing with each other for slots. They noted there are already reasonable provisions in the bill which prioritize pregnant women, victims of domestic abuse, work status and veterans’ status.

Sen. Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), the sponsor of the amendment and Sen. Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport) who proposed the amendment did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking them to explain why they voted the way they did.

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment giving preference to length of residency. A “No” vote is against the amendment.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen No