An Act protecting tenants from retaliation and coercion
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill aims to shield tenants in Massachusetts from retaliatory actions taken by landlords, such as eviction or harassment, following a tenant’s exercise of their legal rights. Specifically, it prohibits landlords from threatening to disclose a tenant’s immigration status as a means of coercion. The legislation seeks to ensure fair housing practices and protect tenants’ ability to advocate for their rights without fear of negative consequences. It also addresses situations where landlords might retaliate against tenants for requesting repairs or improvements to their properties.
Key provisions
- Prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants who report housing code violations.
- Prevents landlords from threatening to disclose a tenant’s immigration status to discourage legal action.
- Protects tenants who request repairs or improvements to their rental units.
- Establishes a framework for addressing landlord-tenant disputes related to retaliation.
Who is affected
- Tenants
- Landlords
- Housing Authorities
- Legal Aid Organizations
- Massachusetts Residents
Notable changes
- Adds protections against coercion based on immigration status.
- Expands existing tenant protections to include retaliation for requesting repairs.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
6 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
James B. Eldridge
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