Bill > S1043

This bill, titled "Empowering zoning boards of appeals," proposes to amend Chapter 40B of the General Laws, a statute often referred to as the "Massachusetts Comprehensive Permit Law," which allows developers to bypass local zoning regulations to build affordable housing if a town has not met its affordable housing goals. Specifically, the bill inserts a new section, Section 21A, which clarifies that during hearings and appeals concerning these low or moderate-income housing projects that require a comprehensive permit, members of the zoning board of appeals (the local board responsible for reviewing zoning matters) are permitted to raise and discuss all relevant concerns without any limitations. This change aims to ensure that zoning boards can fully address any issues they deem important when considering such housing developments. The act is set to become effective on July 1, 2012.