The governor of Massachusetts on Wednesday proposed that at least one member of a family staying in emergency shelters be in the country legally, hardening her stance at a time when concerns are being raised about the safety at the facilties.
Democratic Gov. Maura Healey also is looking to strengthening background checks for anyone staying at the shelter by disclosing criminal convictions in the state and elsewhere. Her proposal would require applicants to verify their identity, residency, and status before being housed. Currently, shelter applicants are allowed to be housed before providing any documentation. It would also limit those qualifying due to evictions to the state, not anywhere in the country.
