Sen. Talbot Ross introduces bill to continue to fund emergency homeless shelters in Maine

AUGUSTA – On Tuesday, March 18, Sen. Talbot Ross, D-Portland, introduced a bill that would provide ongoing funds to emergency homeless shelters across the state. LD 698, “An Act to Sustain Emergency Homeless Shelters in Maine,” was the subject of a public hearing on Tuesday in the Joint Standing Committee on Housing and Economic Development.

“Maine’s emergency shelter network is in crisis,” said Sen. Talbot Ross. “Stagnant funding and record-high homelessness have left providers operating in unsustainable deficits. This bill is a practical, fiscally responsible step to prevent shelter closures and ensure that Maine’s emergency response system remains functional. Shelters are lifelines on a path towards economic stability — we cannot fail those who desperately need them.”

Current state funding for emergency homeless shelters is $2.5 million. LD 698 would increase state funding to $5 million. A MaineHousing 2024 study determined that operating a single shelter bed costs providers $102 per night. As of today, the State only contributes $7.16 per bed to this cost, while the difference is covered by fundraising and donations. If passed, this bill would increase the state contribution to $19 per bed.

LD 698 faces further action in committee.

Sen. Talbot Ross represents part of Portland and Peaks Island in the Maine Senate.