Bill > S1023

This bill establishes a special legislative commission to investigate and study the issuance of permits and approvals for housing projects under Chapter 40B of the Massachusetts General Laws. The commission will be composed of 15 members, including representatives from various governmental bodies, legislative leaders, and key advocacy organizations such as the Environmental League of Massachusetts and the Conservation Law Foundation. The chair will be the secretary of the executive office of housing and livable communities, and the commission has the flexibility to add up to three additional members with expertise in housing or environmental policy. The commission's primary task is to examine the use of housing project permits and their impact on the environment and neighboring properties. By March 6, 2026, the commission is required to submit a comprehensive report with recommendations to the Senate and House committees on ways and means, the joint committee on housing, and the clerks of both legislative bodies. The report will also be publicly accessible through publication on the executive office of housing and livable communities' website, ensuring transparency and broad dissemination of the commission's findings.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1023