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HD 5161

A monthly report of the Executive Office of the Trial Court (under Section 15 of Chapter 239 of the General Laws, as amended by Section 64 of Chapter 28 of the Acts of 2023) submitting its report on filings, actions, and dispositions of summary process cases relative to permanent rental protections

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Requires Massachusetts courts to submit monthly reports tracking eviction case filings and outcomes for tenants with statutory rental protections.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 5161

Legislative bill overview

HD 5161 requires the Executive Office of the Trial Court to submit monthly reports on summary process cases (eviction proceedings) that involve permanent rental protections. The bill mandates tracking of filings, actions, and dispositions specifically for cases where tenants have protections under Massachusetts rental law.

Why is this important

Summary process cases determine whether tenants lose their housing, making data transparency critical for understanding eviction patterns and enforcement of tenant protections. Regular public reporting enables policymakers, advocates, and the public to monitor whether existing rental protections are being effectively applied and identify systemic issues in how courts process these cases.

Potential points of contention

  • Data burden and court resources: Monthly reporting requirements may strain already-backlogged trial courts, potentially diverting staff time from case processing itself
  • Definition clarity: "Permanent rental protections" requires clear statutory definition—disagreement over which protections qualify could create inconsistent reporting across courts
  • Privacy considerations: Detailed case data compilation could raise concerns about tenant privacy even if personally identifying information is redacted

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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