Bill > S778

This bill amends Section 8A of Chapter 239 of the General Laws to require mandatory rent escrow. The key provisions are: 1. The court must order the tenant or occupant to pay all unpaid rent and future rent accruing until the matter is settled or judgment is entered, to be held in escrow by the court clerk. 2. The escrowed funds can be used for repairs to the premises if the tenant or occupant claims the property violates health and safety standards, with the court directing how the repairs are to be made. 3. If the tenant fails to pay the required escrow amount within 7 business days, the court will strike any jury claim or deny any request for continuance, and set the matter for a speedy trial. 4. Any monies expended by the tenant for repairs under the "repair and deduct" statute are deemed a payment under this section, and can be used as a defense. 5. If the court finds the tenant's claims or defenses are without merit and not raised in good faith, it can award reasonable attorney's fees to the landlord.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S778