Conference committee debates H.91 changes to homelessness programs, regional councils and $3 million boost for housing capacity

Members of the H.91 conference committee discussed draft changes to the bill that would reinstate findings, direct a transition of emergency housing and the HOP program into “be hearth” with consistent funding beginning in fiscal year 2027, adjust membership of regional advisory councils, increase reimbursement eligibility for regional council members, and include a proposed $3,000,000 transfer to BCF for affordable and supportive housing and shelter capacity.

The committee said it will consider Senate proposal language that reinserted a findings section and added a legislative-intent paragraph stating “the intent of the general assembly that be hearth replaces the provision of emergency housing through the general assistance program and the HOP program beginning in fiscal year 27 using consistent and stable funding.” Committee members discussed wording and expressed caution about producing language the governor would sign.

Members debated membership of the regional advisory…