Bill > S982

This bill establishes an Anti-Displacement Pilot Program to help cities and towns combat housing instability. The program allows municipalities to apply to participate in a tenant's opportunity to purchase initiative, with applications reviewed by the executive office of housing and livable communities. The pilot will select up to fifteen zip codes based on specific eligibility criteria, including: (1) areas with at least 70% rental units, (2) locations experiencing a displacement crisis as measured by eviction rates and Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) applications, and (3) areas with high poverty rates. The office is required to develop regulations in consultation with stakeholders by December 31, 2025, begin accepting applications by June 30, 2026, and run the program for five years. At the conclusion of the pilot, the office must produce a comprehensive report evaluating the program's effectiveness and providing recommendations for its future, which may include potential improvements, expansion, continuation, or termination of the initiative.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S982