Governor of Massachusetts bans migrant families from sleeping at Logan Airport

In a recent announcement, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey revealed that migrant families will no longer be allowed to sleep overnight at Logan Airport in Boston. The new policy, set to take effect on July 9, aims to redirect migrants to a controversial safety-net site at an old prison in Norfolk. This decision comes after reports of dozens of families seeking shelter at the airport, prompting concerns about the appropriateness of the location for overnight stays. The state's emergency shelter system, which reached full capacity with 7,500 families in November, has been struggling to accommodate the increasing number of migrants seeking assistance. Emergency Assistance Director Scott Rice emphasized the importance of finding alternative housing solutions for families, highlighting the need to adhere to laws and traditions while also considering the well-being of migrants, travelers, and airport staff. Governor Healey stressed the state's efforts to reduce the length of stay in shelters and facilitate the transition to more permanent housing options. With the implementation of a nine-month time limit for families in the emergency shelter system, Massachusetts aims to address the challenges posed by the influx of migrants and the limited shelter space available. The state is urging families traveling to Massachusetts to have a housing plan in place that does not involve Logan Airport or emergency shelters. As part of the initiative to phase out overnight stays at the airport, state officials are working with case managers and service providers to identify suitable accommodations for affected families. By prioritizing the well-being of migrants and ensuring a more sustainable approach to shelter services, Massachusetts seeks to address the complex issues surrounding migrant assistance and shelter provision in the state.