Mass. Lawmakers Plan Virtual Hearing On Coronavirus Aid Bill

Massachusetts lawmakers are holding a virtual public hearing Monday on a bill (H.4622) designed to provide short term economic relief for families in deep poverty, vulnerable children and people with disabilities.

The bill would provide a one-time additional benefit to those who receive help through the state's transitional aid to families with dependent children program. The cost of the one-time infusion of money is pegged at $17 million in the bill.

The legislation would also set aside $6 million for an additional one-time benefit under the state's program for emergency aid to the elderly, disabled, and children.

The goal is to offer help to the state's most vulnerable during the coronavirus crisis.

The hearing is scheduled for Monday at 1:30 p.m. and will be conducted over Zoom. It will mark the first time a piece of legislation has received a virtual public hearing.