Bill > H2328

This bill enables cities and towns in Massachusetts to adopt local rent stabilization and tenant protection measures by creating a new chapter of state law (Chapter 49B) that allows municipalities to voluntarily implement rent control policies. The bill allows local governments to limit annual rent increases to the lower of either 5% or the annual change in the Consumer Price Index for certain residential dwelling units, with specific exemptions such as owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units and newly constructed housing. Municipalities that adopt this law must require landlords to have "just cause" for evictions, which include reasons like nonpayment of rent, substantial lease violations, criminal activity, or the owner's intent to occupy or convert the property. The bill mandates that cities and towns provide annual reports to the state's housing office about their implementation, and establishes enforcement mechanisms through the state's consumer protection laws. Landlords who violate the rent increase or eviction provisions could face significant financial penalties, including potential damages of three times the rent amount. Importantly, the law is optional for municipalities, meaning each city or town can choose whether to implement these tenant protections, and the provisions are designed to not interfere with existing state or federal tenant rights.

Government Affairs, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2328