Bill > H1521

This bill amends Section 34 of Chapter 121B of the Massachusetts General Laws to strengthen and protect the rights of public housing tenants during project transfers or redevelopment. Specifically, the bill ensures that tenants maintain their existing rights under federal, state, and local subsidy programs, including lease terms, eviction protections, return rights, grievance procedures, resident participation, hiring preferences, and privacy rights. The bill prohibits re-screening existing tenants or using redevelopment as a basis for terminating or reducing assistance or evicting current residents. It mandates that redeveloped projects maintain at least the same number of low-rent housing units and requires housing authorities to implement protections through contracts, use agreements, or regulations. The bill also establishes requirements for monitoring tenant displacement, rehousing tenants without removing them from affordable housing programs, and providing technical assistance to allow meaningful tenant input into project development. Additionally, the bill guarantees tenants the right to enforce use agreement benefits and requires opportunities for tenant and public comment on proposed projects, with adequate notice provided to affected residents and stakeholders.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1521