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HD 929

An Act relative to emergency hazard health duty

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jim Arciero and 3 co-sponsors

Bill requires Massachusetts property owners to disclose known emergency hazards to occupants and visitors, establishing liability standards and penalties for non-compliance.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 929

Legislative bill overview

HD 929 establishes a legal duty for property owners and managers to disclose known emergency hazards to occupants and visitors. The bill requires notification of conditions that pose immediate threats to health or safety, such as structural failures, contamination, or equipment malfunctions. It creates liability protections for those who make good-faith hazard reports and establishes penalties for non-compliance.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects tenant safety and property owner accountability in Massachusetts. It creates enforceable standards for hazard communication that currently vary by property type and may not be consistently applied, potentially preventing injuries or health crises from preventable hazards. The law impacts millions of residents and thousands of property managers navigating rental housing, commercial spaces, and public facilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance costs: Property owners may face expenses implementing disclosure systems, conducting hazard inspections, and maintaining documentation, particularly for smaller landlords and businesses
  • Liability expansion: The bill may increase legal exposure for property owners through private lawsuits, even for hazards disclosed in good faith, depending on specific language defining duty and damages
  • Definition ambiguity: "Emergency hazard" and "known" require precise definition; overly broad language could create disputes, while narrow language may leave dangerous conditions unaddressed

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

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