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H 1952

An Act promoting access to counsel and housing stability in Massachusetts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 46 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expands access to legal counsel for low-income residents and promotes housing stability through coordinated legal aid and supportive services.

Hearing scheduled for 10/21/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2
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Bill Summary · H 1952

Legislative bill overview

H 1952 establishes programs to improve access to legal counsel for low-income Massachusetts residents and creates mechanisms to promote housing stability. The bill addresses gaps in legal representation for vulnerable populations and aims to prevent housing insecurity through coordinated legal and supportive services.

Why is this important

Legal representation in housing matters significantly affects eviction outcomes and family stability. Studies show that tenants with counsel are substantially more likely to avoid eviction, remain housed, and maintain economic security. This bill's investment in counsel access could reduce homelessness and associated public costs while protecting vulnerable residents from displacement.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding mechanism: Questions about how the state will fund expanded legal services and whether appropriations are sufficient or sustainable long-term
  • Program scope and eligibility: Debate over who qualifies for assistance, income thresholds, and whether services will be adequate to meet demand across all regions
  • Implementation timeline: Concerns about how quickly programs can be operationalized and whether existing legal aid organizations have capacity to absorb expanded caseloads
  • Coordination requirements: Potential friction between agencies (housing authorities, courts, legal aid) in establishing effective information-sharing and referral systems

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

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