Bill > H3552

This bill amends Section 5 of Chapter 40A of the General Laws in Massachusetts to allow municipalities to change the voting threshold for adopting or amending zoning ordinances or by-laws. The current two-thirds majority vote requirement can be changed to a range between a simple majority and a two-thirds majority, but such a change must be made by the voting majority then in effect and cannot take effect until 6 months have elapsed. Additionally, if a written protest is filed with the town or city clerk prior to the final council vote by owners of at least 20% of the affected land or adjacent land within 300 feet, a two-thirds majority vote is still required, regardless of any previously changed voting threshold.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H3552