An Act to lift kids out of deep poverty

This bill aims to increase monthly cash assistance payments for families in Massachusetts who are struggling with deep poverty. Starting in July 2023, the law mandates that benefit amounts rise by 25 percent each year until they reach a level equal to 50 percent of the federal poverty line for the household size. Once that threshold is met, payments will continue to increase annually to ensure they do not fall below that 50 percent standard. The legislation specifically applies to recipients of state aid programs, excluding rental allowances, and also includes additional adjustments for clothing and housing costs for eligible households.