Bill > H1558

This bill amends Massachusetts law to prohibit discriminatory land use practices by local or state administrative, legislative, or regulatory bodies. Specifically, the bill defines discriminatory land use practices as actions that limit or exclude housing for families or individuals with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income, housing with sufficient bedrooms for families with children, or housing based on various protected characteristics such as race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and disability. The bill allows a government entity to defend against claims of discriminatory practices by proving the action was motivated by a legitimate, non-discriminatory governmental interest or by demonstrating a consistent history of supporting diverse housing. The legislation provides a legal mechanism for individuals or groups who believe they have been affected by such discriminatory practices to file civil lawsuits within three years of a violation. If successful, plaintiffs may receive injunctive relief, actual damages, and in cases of intentional discrimination, punitive damages. The bill also allows the attorney general to initiate civil actions and ensures that individuals are not required to exhaust administrative remedies before filing a lawsuit, providing a comprehensive approach to combating housing discrimination.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1558