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HD 4002

An Act relative to creating a permanent affordability homeownership program

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge and 4 co-sponsors

Bill creates permanent affordability homeownership program to help low-income Massachusetts residents buy homes while keeping prices affordable across future sales.

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Bill Summary · HD 4002

Legislative bill overview

HD 4002 proposes establishing a permanent affordability homeownership program in Massachusetts designed to help low-to-moderate income residents purchase homes while maintaining affordability in perpetuity. The bill would create a mechanism for keeping homes affordable across multiple owner generations, typically through deed restrictions or community land trust models that separate land ownership from building ownership.

Why is this important

Massachusetts faces a severe housing affordability crisis, with median home prices far exceeding what average earners can afford. A permanent affordability program could expand homeownership access to working families while preserving affordable housing stock long-term, rather than relying on time-limited subsidy programs that expire after 15-30 years.

Potential points of contention

  • Resale restrictions: Permanent affordability caps may limit owners' ability to build wealth through home equity appreciation, reducing financial flexibility for future generations or life circumstances
  • Program costs and funding: Creating and maintaining permanent affordability mechanisms requires sustained public funding or subsidy mechanisms that may strain state budgets
  • Market interference: Deed restrictions and affordability requirements could discourage private development and reduce overall housing supply in some markets
  • Implementation complexity: Administering permanent programs requires durable institutional frameworks and ongoing monitoring to prevent circumvention or program degradation

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

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