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H 3967

An Act relative to amending the Community Preservation Act to include an extra percentage surcharge for accessibility

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Chris Flanagan

Massachusetts bill adds dedicated surcharge to Community Preservation Act to fund accessibility improvements in preserved properties and communities.

Accompanied a study order, see H5163
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Bill Summary · H 3967

Legislative bill overview

H 3967 amends Massachusetts' Community Preservation Act to add an additional surcharge (percentage yet to be specified) that would generate dedicated funding for accessibility improvements in preserved properties and communities. The bill creates a new revenue stream specifically earmarked for making historically preserved areas and structures more accessible to people with disabilities.

Why is this important

Community Preservation Act funds currently support historic preservation, open space, and affordable housing but lack dedicated accessibility resources. This bill addresses a real gap by ensuring people with disabilities can fully access and benefit from preserved communities and buildings, which often feature architectural barriers. The dedicated surcharge creates sustainable, predictable funding rather than competing for general preservation dollars.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden on property owners: The additional surcharge increases the effective tax rate for property owners already paying Community Preservation Act fees, raising questions about affordability and economic impact
  • Surcharge percentage undefined: The bill lacks specifics on the surcharge rate, making it impossible to assess fiscal impact and raising concerns about future decisions made without legislative transparency
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear whether "accessibility" covers only physical disabilities, what types of improvements qualify, or how funds will be prioritized across different preservation projects

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

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