An Act reducing CPA recording fees for affordable housing

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ann-Margaret Ferrante

Bill H 3092 reduces recording fees for affordable housing projects in Massachusetts, easing costs for developers and public agencies, and increasing housing availability for low-income residents.

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

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3092 aims to reduce the recording fees associated with the Community Preservation Act (CPA) for affordable housing projects in Massachusetts. The intent of the bill is to alleviate financial burdens on affordable housing initiatives, thereby promoting the development and sustainability of affordable housing options within the Commonwealth.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes amendments to Chapter 44B of the General Laws, specifically:

Section 8a Amendment: This section will be modified to include provisions for the filing of subordinate mortgages extended by public or quasi-public agencies. This includes municipalities and the Massachusetts Housing Partnership, which are crucial in supporting affordable housing projects.

Section 8b Amendment: Similar to Section 8a, this section will also be amended to encompass the filing of subordinate mortgages from public entities, ensuring that these transactions benefit from reduced recording fees.

These amendments are designed to streamline the process and reduce costs associated with recording fees for affordable housing projects, making it easier for developers and agencies to engage in such initiatives.

Affected Parties

The primary beneficiaries of Bill H 3092 include:

Affordable Housing Developers: By reducing recording fees, developers can allocate more resources towards the construction and maintenance of affordable housing units.

Public Agencies: Municipalities and quasi-public agencies involved in affordable housing projects will find it easier to manage financial transactions related to subordinate mortgages.

Low-Income Residents: Ultimately, the bill aims to increase the availability of affordable housing, benefiting low-income families and individuals seeking housing options.

Procedural Aspects and Timeline

Introduced: February 27, 2025

Committee Actions:

Referred to the committee on Revenue on the same day of introduction.
A hearing was scheduled for September 15, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room A-2.
On November 19, 2025, the bill was reported favorably by the committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means.

This timeline indicates a proactive approach to advancing the bill through the legislative process, with significant discussions and evaluations scheduled.

Conclusion

Bill H 3092 represents a strategic effort by the Massachusetts legislature to enhance the affordability and accessibility of housing through financial relief in the form of reduced recording fees. By targeting public and quasi-public agency transactions, the bill seeks to foster a more conducive environment for affordable housing development, ultimately benefiting the community at large.

Bill