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HD 3253

An Act repealing the MBTA communities act

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David DeCoste and 2 co-sponsors

Repeal would eliminate Massachusetts' requirement that transit-served municipalities allow multi-family housing, returning zoning control to local communities and likely slowing regional housing development.

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Bill Summary · HD 3253

Legislative bill overview

This bill would repeal Massachusetts' MBTA Communities Act, which currently requires municipalities served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority to adopt zoning changes allowing multi-family residential housing near transit stations. The repeal would eliminate the state mandate requiring these communities to permit dense housing development in transit-adjacent areas.

Why is this important

The MBTA Communities Act (passed in 2020) was designed to increase housing supply and reduce housing costs by enabling more apartments and condos near public transportation. Repealing it would return zoning authority entirely to local municipalities, likely slowing residential development in these high-demand areas and potentially exacerbating Massachusetts' housing affordability crisis, particularly in the Boston metro region.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state housing goals: Municipalities argue the mandate infringes on local zoning authority; housing advocates argue local control perpetuates exclusionary zoning that keeps housing scarce and expensive
  • Development pace and character: Opponents worry about rapid neighborhood transformation and infrastructure strain; supporters argue density near transit reduces sprawl and traffic
  • Equity implications: The act targets affluent suburbs with good transit access; repealing it may protect established communities while worsening access to affordable housing for lower-income residents

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

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