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H 2266

An Act repealing section 3A relative to MBTA communities

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David DeCoste and 7 co-sponsors

H.2266 repeals MBTA transit-oriented zoning requirements, eliminating statewide multifamily housing mandates near transit stations and returning zoning control to individual municipalities.

Hearing scheduled for 07/29/2025 from 01:00 PM-06:05 PM in Gardner Auditorium
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Bill Summary · H 2266

Legislative bill overview

H.2266 proposes to repeal Section 3A of Massachusetts law, which requires municipalities served by the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) to adopt zoning regulations permitting multifamily housing near transit stations. This provision, enacted in 2021, mandates that these communities allow residential developments of at least 15 units without minimum lot size requirements in certain areas.

Why is this important

The MBTA communities law is a significant housing policy tool designed to increase housing supply and affordability in transit-rich areas while reducing car dependency. Repealing it would eliminate statewide zoning requirements and return land-use decisions entirely to local control, potentially slowing housing development near public transportation infrastructure and affecting Massachusetts' ability to address its housing shortage.

Potential points of contention

  • Housing supply vs. local control: Repealing the law restores municipal zoning autonomy but may reduce multifamily housing construction in high-demand transit areas, exacerbating housing affordability challenges
  • Environmental and sustainability goals: Eliminating transit-oriented development requirements could undermine efforts to promote transit use and reduce suburban sprawl and emissions
  • Equity and displacement: The original law aimed to increase housing options for lower-income residents; repeal could limit affordable housing near jobs and transit access, deepening geographic inequality

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

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