Bill > S2828

This bill establishes comprehensive reforms for manufactured housing communities in Massachusetts, creating multiple new protections and mechanisms for residents. The legislation creates a Manufactured Housing Trust Fund to be administered by the secretary of administration and finance, which will collect licensing revenues and fees to support dispute resolution programs. The bill allows cities and towns to establish local rent boards for manufactured housing communities, empowering them to regulate rents, minimum standards, and evictions while ensuring fair operating income for community owners. It introduces a right of first refusal for residents when a community is being sold or leased, requiring owners to notify residents and giving them an opportunity to purchase the community. The bill also establishes a manufactured housing dispute resolution program where residents or owners can file complaints with the attorney general, who can then refer disputes to a mediation process or a hearing before a commission. Additionally, the legislation modifies licensing fees, changes rules about community ownership and rental practices, and creates a special commission to investigate homeowners insurance for manufactured homes. Key provisions aim to provide more stability, transparency, and protection for manufactured home residents while maintaining a balanced approach that also considers community owners' interests.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Housing (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2828