Bill > H2731

This bill proposes to amend Chapter 7C of the General Laws by adding a new section, 42A, which aims to protect human services organizations when they lease or rent real property to be occupied by a public agency. The bill defines "charitable organization" as any entity whose purposes or operations are charitable, or that uses charitable appeals in its solicitations. A "current agreement" is defined as an existing lease or rental agreement, or one that has expired within the last 180 days. A "human services organization" is defined as a nonprofit or charitable organization that helps individuals improve their standard of living, or assists those with disabilities, poverty, or mental health issues. A "nonprofit association" is an entity organized as a nonprofit corporation or unincorporated association under state or federal law. The key provision states that during the renegotiation of a lease or rental agreement for property occupied by a public agency, the commissioner cannot offer a price that is more than 5% lower than the current agreement's price, unless there has been a significant change to the property that reduces its value. If the commissioner does offer a lower price, they must provide a written explanation detailing the reasons for the reduced value based on property changes.