Bill > S859

This bill amends Chapter 244 of the General Laws to provide tenants with a right of first refusal in the event of a foreclosure or short sale of their housing accommodation. Key provisions include: - Requiring owners to notify tenants of their intent to pursue a short sale or deed-in-lieu, and provide notice of any bona fide offer the mortgagee intends to accept. Tenants representing at least 51% of the households have the right to purchase the property on substantially equivalent terms. - During a foreclosure, the mortgagee must provide tenants with notice of the foreclosure proceedings and any notices of sale. Tenants representing at least 51% of the households have the right to purchase the property at auction or if there are no third-party bids. - The bill prohibits owners from evicting tenants to avoid the application of these provisions, and allows tenants to seek damages and injunctive relief for violations. The Attorney General is tasked with enforcing the law and issuing necessary regulations.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S859