(ConservativeInsider.org) – Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has declared a “state of emergency” and is urging private homeowners to open their doors to house the thousands of individuals flooding into the Bay State. Massachusetts, with its statewide “right to housing” rule for homeless families, faces the challenge of accommodating legal residents being asked to house illegal immigrants.
With nearly 5,600 families, totaling over 20,000 individuals, seeking shelter in the state, Healey’s administration is exploring unconventional solutions to address the crisis. Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll emphasized the urgency, encouraging residents to consider hosting families if they have spare rooms or suites. Currently, the state is accommodating over 1,400 families in 40 hotels across 28 cities at taxpayer expense, with an average stay of 14 months, as reported by FAIR.
The latest development suggests that the state is extending its efforts beyond government initiatives. The Immigrant Support Alliance is holding seminars to inform residents about becoming “host homes” for illegal immigrants, raising questions about the state’s intentions and whether it plans to intensify efforts to place illegal immigrants in private residences.
The “right to housing” law, exclusive to Massachusetts, automatically requires the state to provide shelter for homeless families, a provision that has become increasingly expensive. Concerns about the safety of homeowners taking in unidentified and unvetted individuals have been raised, especially in light of reports of disturbances and potential risks associated with the influx.
State Representative Peter Durant, a Republican from Worcester, highlighted a dramatic increase in state expenditures related to housing illegal families, from $2.6 million in 2023 to an anticipated $10.7 million in 2024. These rising costs have prompted calls for legislative changes, reflecting the financial strain placed on the state.
Boston Herald columnist Howie Carr has expressed alarm over the safety implications of placing illegal immigrants in private homes, emphasizing concerns about criminal backgrounds, diseases, and potential threats to homeowners and their families. Carr’s critique underscores a broader debate about the state’s responsibility to ensure the well-being of residents who choose to participate in the housing initiative.
Copyright 2024, ConservativeInsider.org
