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H 2308

An Act relative to multi-family zoning in MBTA communities

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ryan Fattman and 5 co-sponsors

Bill H 2308 promotes multi-family housing in MBTA communities, easing zoning rules for areas with over 10% low-income housing, boosting affordable options for residents.

Hearing rescheduled to 07/29/2025 from 01:00 PM-06:05 PM in Gardner Auditorium and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 2308

Summary of Bill H 2308: An Act Relative to Multi-Family Zoning in MBTA Communities

Overview

Bill H 2308, introduced on February 27, 2025, aims to amend Section 3A of Chapter 40A of the General Laws of Massachusetts. The primary intent of this legislation is to address multi-family zoning requirements in communities served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA).

Purpose and Intent

The bill seeks to ensure that MBTA communities are encouraged to develop multi-family housing options, thereby promoting affordable housing and addressing housing shortages in areas with access to public transportation. By doing so, the legislation aims to enhance housing availability for low and moderate-income residents.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Zoning Requirements: The bill proposes an addition to subsection (d) of Section 3A, which states that if an MBTA community has low or moderate-income housing constituting more than 10% of the total housing units (as reported in the latest federal decennial census), that community will not be subject to the multi-family zoning requirements outlined in this section.

  • Threshold for Exemption: The threshold for exemption is specifically tied to the percentage of low or moderate-income housing, which is defined in Section 20 of Chapter 40B. This provision is designed to relieve communities that have already met or exceeded the housing needs from additional zoning mandates.

Affected Parties

  • Municipalities: The bill directly impacts MBTA communities, which are required to comply with the proposed zoning changes unless they meet the specified housing threshold.

  • Residents: Low and moderate-income residents may benefit from increased housing options in areas with public transportation access, potentially improving their living conditions and reducing commuting challenges.

  • Developers: Real estate developers may find new opportunities for multi-family housing projects in MBTA communities, contributing to the local economy and housing stock.

Procedural Aspects

  • Hearing Schedule: A public hearing for Bill H 2308 has been rescheduled to July 29, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 6:05 PM in Gardner Auditorium, with a virtual option available. This hearing is crucial for gathering public input and discussing the implications of the bill.

  • Legislative Journey: The bill was referred to the Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government on the same day it was introduced. The Senate has concurred with the bill, indicating bipartisan support for its objectives.

Related Legislation

  • House Docket No. 258: This bill replaces a similar matter filed in the previous session (House Docket No. 4465 of 2023-2024), indicating ongoing legislative efforts to address housing issues in Massachusetts.

Conclusion

Bill H 2308 represents a significant step towards enhancing multi-family housing availability in MBTA communities. By establishing clear thresholds for zoning exemptions, the legislation aims to balance the need for affordable housing with the realities of existing community resources. The upcoming hearing will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to voice their opinions and contribute to the legislative process.

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

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