By Bob Katzen

Senate 40-0, approved an amendment that would commission a series of studies by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to explore new tools to jumpstart stalled housing projects.

The studies would include a potential construction sales tax exemption for multifamily housing developments delayed by federal tariffs or economic volatility; the use of third-party inspectors to fast-track permitting for manufactured, off-site and multifamily housing; and whether affordable housing projects should be exempt from Proposition 2½ tax levy limits — a factor that often discourages local approvals.

“Together, these provisions are aimed at cutting red tape, lowering costs and accelerating the production of housing—particularly in high-need, geographically isolated regions like the Cape and Islands,” said amendment sponsor Sen. Julian Cyr (D-Truro). “Massachusetts was averaging 30,000 new homes annually as recently as the 1980s, when our population was much smaller. That number currently sits at about half, despite the increased need. The amendment passed unanimously … in a great show of bipartisan support.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes