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Massachusetts becomes the first, and remains the only, state with a right to shelter for families.

Living up to a campaign promise, newly re-elected Governor Dukakis signs a law guaranteeing shelter to homeless pregnant women and families. State officials are required to find shelter for low-income families living in Massachusetts, who may suddenly be homeless due to a no-fault eviction, no-fault natural disaster, domestic violence, or health risks to the children. While costly, Governor Dukakis feels it is a moral right to help those in dire need.

Sources

https://www.masslive.com/politics/2023/11/7-things-to-know-about-mass-right-to-shelter-as-budget-vote-looms.html#:~:text=In%201983%2C%20Massachusetts%20lawmakers%20passed,to%20families%20in%20desperate%20need. https://www.bostonglobe.com/2023/08/08/metro/shelter-law-1983-massachusetts-homeless-dukakis-healey/ https://www.mass.gov/info-details/emergency-assistance-ea-family-shelter-resources-and-data

MA Establishes Right to Shelter for Families