Homeless Shelter Bill Advances

Photo: KOMUnews via Creative Commons

From a press release

AUGUSTA – Legislation sponsored by Rep. Anne-Marie Mastraccio, D-Sanford, that would increase funding for homeless shelters in Maine, received unanimous approval from the Maine Legislature last week.

The bill would allocate $10 million for ongoing funding for all shelters across the state and an additional $2.5 million for ongoing funding to increase the nightly rate the state pays to low-barrier shelters.

“In York County alone, there are an estimated 300 individuals without shelter right now,” said Mastraccio. “Across the state, shelters are reporting that they are at risk of closure due to insufficient resources. The need for shelter space in Maine has grown significantly since this funding was last increased, and so too must our investment in these vital community services.”

Last year, the Legislature provided a one-time infusion of $10 million for shelters, which was a fourfold increase from prior years. LD 2136 would make that increase permanent as an ongoing provision in the state’s budget.

The bill would also address the unique funding needs of low-barrier shelters, which are funded at the same rate as regular shelters, though they cost more to operate. Staff at low-barrier shelters must get specialized training for overdose prevention, the use of Narcan, and de-escalation tactics in the event of a mental health crisis. With these increased costs, many are facing significant financial shortfalls.

The bill now faces a funding decision from the Legislature’s Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.