By Bob Katzen
House 26-132, rejected an amendment that would require the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to verify the United States citizenship of each applicant for any HomeBASE benefit and to deny the benefit to any applicant who fails to provide satisfactory evidence of citizenship. HomeBASE is a state-funded program that provides up to $30,000 over a 2-year period to help homeless families in the Emergency Assistance system secure stable housing, by covering rent, deposits, utilities, furniture and some moving expenses.
“This amendment reflects a straightforward effort to ensure that limited taxpayer-funded housing resources are directed to individuals who are lawfully eligible to receive them,” said amendment sponsor Rep. Ken Sweezey (R-Duxbury). “At a time when Massachusetts continues to face a significant strain on its shelter system—including the shifting of thousands of families between programs—it is both fiscally responsible and appropriate to establish clearer eligibility standards. This reform represents a commonsense step toward controlling costs and protecting local aid for cities and towns.”
Rep. Alice Peisch (D-Wellesley) opposed the amendment and said it would result in legal residents being prohibited from participating in this program which is one of the best ways we have to lead to more permanent housing and to help residents. She said the amendment would lead to women and children sleeping in tents.
(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment denying the housing benefit unless the applicant can provide satisfactory evidence of citizenship. A “No” vote is against the amendment and favors not requiring an applicant to prove U.S. citizenship.)
Rep. Christine Barber No Rep. Mike Connolly No Rep. Paul Donato No Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven No