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H 4757

An Act promoting housing opportunities and access

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 4 co-sponsors

Bill H 4757 boosts multi-family housing in Massachusetts by easing zoning laws, aiming to increase availability and affordability in areas with limited options.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 4757

Summary of Bill H 4757: An Act Promoting Housing Opportunities and Access

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 4757 aims to enhance housing opportunities and access in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts by amending existing zoning laws. The legislation seeks to facilitate the development of multi-family housing, particularly in areas where such housing is currently limited, thereby addressing the state's housing shortage and promoting more inclusive communities.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments to Chapter 40A of the General Laws:

1. Definitions

  • Excluded Land: Defines various types of land that cannot be developed, including publicly-owned land (except developable portions), water bodies, wetlands, and land used for educational or institutional purposes.
  • Calculable Developable Land: Refers to privately-owned land and developable public land that can be used for multi-family housing.
  • Developable Land Area: Specifies areas within approved smart growth districts suitable for residential or mixed-use development.

2. Zoning Requirements

  • Cities and towns with less than 10% of housing units in multi-family structures must establish multifamily zoning districts covering at least 1.5% of all calculable developable land.
  • These districts must allow for a minimum density of 20 dwelling units per acre for by-right multi-family development.

3. Open Space Residential Development

  • The bill modifies existing provisions to streamline the approval process for open space residential developments, allowing them to be permitted by right in residential zoning districts without the need for a standard subdivision plan.

4. Voting Requirements

  • Changes the voting requirements for zoning ordinances and appeals from a two-thirds majority to a simple majority of board members present.

5. Timeline for Implementation

  • All cities and towns are required to determine their calculable developable land by December 1, 2026.

6. Commission for Affordable Housing

  • Establishes a commission to study reforms to area median income limits to improve access to affordable housing. The commission will include members from the Senate, House of Representatives, and various housing organizations.

Impact

This legislation is expected to:
- Increase the availability of multi-family housing options across Massachusetts, particularly in areas currently lacking such developments.
- Simplify the zoning process for residential developments, potentially speeding up housing construction.
- Encourage local governments to assess and utilize their land resources more effectively to meet housing needs.
- Foster collaboration among state and local officials, housing advocates, and community organizations to address housing affordability.

Legislative Status

  • Introduced: November 19, 2025
  • Current Status: Reported favorably by the committee on Community Development and Small Businesses and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means.

Sponsors

The bill is co-sponsored by:
- Vanna Howard
- Lindsay N. Sabadosa
- Russell E. Holmes
- Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr.
- Marjorie C. Decker

This summary provides an overview of Bill H 4757, highlighting its objectives, key provisions, and potential impacts on housing in Massachusetts.

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

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