By Bob Katzen

The House 27-131, rejected an amendment that would give priority consideration for inclusion in the emergency housing assistance program, when space becomes available, to residents who have resided in the state for a minimum of 12 consecutive months and are on the waitlist for the program.

“With a growing number of people on the waitlist for emergency housing assistance, we need to set clear priorities to better manage the demand and eliminate the waitlist,” said House GOP Minority leader Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “When doing so, it’s only fair that longtime residents of the commonwealth in need of services should take precedence over someone who has just arrived here from out of state.”

Amendment opponents said the amendment might be unconstitutional. They also noted that people from around the world who are the victims of rape, violence and oppression are coming to Massachusetts and the state should not impose residency requirements on these suffering migrants.

“I would also just like to underscore … that no families — whether they are longtime Massachusetts residents or families that are new to the state — are being put out on the street,” said Rep. Alice Peisch (D-Wellesley) who opposed the amendment. “We do have these overflow shelters. I don’t want anyone to be operating under the assumption that we have Massachusetts residents who are being left out on the street, so once again, I ask you please … to reject the residency requirement.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment giving priority to 12-month residents. A “No” vote is against the amendment.)

Rep. Christine Barber No Rep. Mike Connolly No Rep. Paul Donato No Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven No