By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval, on a voice vote without a roll call, to a measure that would allow assessors, who deems it reasonably necessary, to enter any lands, waters and premises in Massachusetts to collect physical and functional data pertinent to the proper determination of said property’s fair cash value for the fiscal year tax roll. The bill does not allow entrance to an actual building.

Supporters say that the bill will ensure that these inspections are legal and not considered to be trespassing. They note that the assessor would be required to act in accordance with the Department of Revenue’s requirements as well as the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practices that both allow an assessor or his authorized agents to enter a property, after reasonable notice. They noted that the legislation would not relieve an assessor of liability for damage caused by entry to the property.

Co-sponsors Rep. Bridget Plouffe (D-Brockton) and Sen. Michael Brady (D-Brockton) did not respond to repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call asking them why they sponsored the measure and how they feel about its passage.