An Act codifying organizational standing

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tricia Farley-Bouvier

Bill H 2098 empowers public interest organizations in Massachusetts to take legal action against employment discrimination, enhancing civil rights protections for individuals.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means

Overview

Bill H 2098, introduced by Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier on February 27, 2025, aims to codify the standing of public interest organizations in the context of employment discrimination laws in Massachusetts. The bill seeks to enhance the ability of these organizations to address and combat discrimination and bias.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of H 2098 is to formally recognize public interest organizations within the framework of Massachusetts employment discrimination laws. By doing so, the bill aims to empower these organizations to take legal action when their purposes or activities are adversely affected by unlawful practices.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several amendments to Chapter 151B of the General Laws, which governs employment discrimination in Massachusetts:

Definition of Public Interest Organizations:

The bill introduces the term "public interest organization," defined as any non-profit entity organized to combat discrimination, safeguard civil rights, or promote interests under Chapter 151B.

Expanded Standing for Public Interest Organizations:

Section 5 Amendment: Public interest organizations can be considered aggrieved parties if:
- Their purpose or activities are perceptively impaired by alleged unlawful practices.
- They or their agents/employees are directly targeted by such practices.
- They have a sufficient connection to the interests of individuals harmed by unlawful practices.

Section 9 Amendment: Similar provisions are established for civil actions related to residential housing, allowing public interest organizations to claim standing under the same conditions.

Impact

The passage of H 2098 would significantly affect:
- Public Interest Organizations: These entities would gain enhanced legal standing, allowing them to advocate more effectively for civil rights and anti-discrimination efforts.
- Individuals: The bill aims to strengthen protections for individuals facing discrimination by enabling organizations to act on their behalf.
- Legal Framework: The amendments would clarify the role and rights of public interest organizations within the existing legal structure, potentially leading to more robust enforcement of anti-discrimination laws.

Procedural Aspects

Hearing Schedule: A hearing for the bill has been rescheduled to November 20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with a virtual component available.

Legislative Journey: The bill was referred to the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development on the same day it was introduced and has received concurrence from the Senate.

Conclusion

Bill H 2098 represents a significant step towards empowering public interest organizations in Massachusetts to combat discrimination more effectively. By codifying their standing in employment discrimination cases, the bill aims to enhance the protection of civil rights and promote a fairer legal environment for all citizens.

Bill