Governor Maura
Healey is calling for shelter inspections and a “full review” of the intake protocols used for the state’s emergency shelter system, after the House
Republican Caucus raised concerns and demanded answers about the vetting
process.
In a letter delivered to the Governor on January 6, the caucus questioned how an illegal immigrant from the Dominican Republic, who is now facing multiple firearms and drug-related charges, was able to secure placement in a state-funded motel shelter in Revere, at the expense of many longtime Massachusetts residents in need. The Healey Administration has repeatedly claimed entry into the shelter program is limited to residents and documented immigrants who have lawful permission to be in the United States and have declared Massachusetts as their place of residency. The arrest highlights the Administration’s failed policies and the shortcomings of the background checks currently used to screen shelter applicants.
While the announced inspections and intake review are welcome news, the caucus will continue to closely monitor the situation to hold the Healey Administration accountable and to ensure that the governor follows through on her pledge to implement the changes needed to prevent criminal activity from taking place in the state’s shelters. There are simply no excuses for tolerating this type of criminal behavior, especially when it occurs within a state-run program publicly funded by taxpayer dollars.
