H1494
An Act relative to improve access to rental assistance programs
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- Passed House
- Passed Senate
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Bill overview
This bill aims to improve access to rental assistance programs in Massachusetts. It seeks to streamline the application process and increase the availability of these resources for eligible residents. The legislation intends to reduce housing instability and support individuals and families struggling to afford rent. By addressing barriers to access, the bill hopes to bolster the state’s efforts to ensure stable housing for its residents.
Key provisions
- Expands eligibility criteria for rental assistance programs.
- Streamlines the application process for rental assistance.
- Increases funding for existing rental assistance programs.
- Requires the Department of Housing and Community Development to conduct a study on barriers to access.
- Promotes collaboration between state agencies and local organizations providing rental assistance.
Who is affected
- Low-income individuals and families
- Renters in Massachusetts
- Housing assistance recipients
- The Department of Housing and Community Development
Notable changes
- Requires a study to identify and address barriers to accessing rental assistance.
- Potentially expands the pool of individuals eligible for rental assistance.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
David F. DeCoste
Cosponsors
David F. DeCoste
Russell E. Holmes
Arguments in favor
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Bill H.1494 194th (Current)
An Act relative to improve access to rental assistance programs
By Representative DeCoste of Norwell, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1494) of David F. DeCoste relative to rental assistance programs. Housing.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: David F. DeCoste
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Committee Summary Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 6 actions for Bill H.1494
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on Housing |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 7/11/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 07/23/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 |
| 9/18/2025 | House | Reporting date extended to Friday, October 31, 2025 |
| House | Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order | |
| 4/13/2026 | House | Accompanied a study order, see H5352 (under House Rule 27) |
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