By Bob Katzen
The House 128-24, Senate 37-2, approved and Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a housing bill that would authorize $5.1 billion in borrowing to spur housing production in the Bay State.
Supporters said the package makes crucial policy changes with the goal of building new housing, accelerating the rehabilitation of existing housing, reducing barriers to development and promoting affordable housing.
They noted that key provisions include allowing accessory dwelling units, investment in modernizing the state’s public housing system, boosts to programs that support first-time homebuyers and homeownership, incentives to build more housing for low to moderate-income residents, support for the conversion of vacant commercial space to housing and support for sustainable and green housing initiatives.
“The Affordable Homes Act creates homes for every kind of household, at every stage of life and unlocks the potential in our neighborhoods,” said Gov. Healey. “Today we are taking an unprecedented step forward in building a stronger Massachusetts where everyone can afford to live.”
“The Affordable Homes Act is the first, major critical step needed in addressing our housing crisis,” said Rep. James Arciero (D-Littleton), House Chair of the Committee on Housing. “It reduces barriers for individuals seeking affordable home options, increases housing production and inventory and creates more tools in the toolbox to help cities and towns offer more affordable housing options. This encompassing bill showcases critical input from our state and local officials, community stakeholders, advocates and residents.”
“If Massachusetts leaders declare ‘Mission Accomplished’ on the housing crisis, they’ll be abandoning millions of Massachusetts residents to a broken housing market that is driving families into homelessness and pushing workers out of our state,” said Carolyn Chou, Director of Homes for All Mass. “The housing bond bill includes meaningful funding to support public housing and build new affordable housing, but legislators failed to include any tools to help renters who are facing enormous rent hikes and eviction today.”
“Passing a major massive, complicated measure like this without even an abbreviated opportunity to read what was in the bill was not something I was willing to embrace,” said Rep. Matt Muratore (R-Plymouth). “This bill was passed on August 1st around 9 a.m. after being in session since July 31st at noon. We had very little time to review.”
(A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.)
Rep. Christine Barber Yes Rep. Mike Connolly Yes Rep. Paul Donato Yes Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven Yes Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes