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H 1544

An Act to guarantee a tenant’s first right of refusal

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 34 co-sponsors

Bill H 1544 empowers tenants in Massachusetts with the first right to buy their homes, promoting stability and affordability while preventing displacement.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 1544

Summary of Bill H 1544: An Act to Guarantee a Tenant’s First Right of Refusal

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 1544 aims to establish a legal framework that guarantees tenants the first right of refusal when their rental property is being sold. This legislation seeks to empower tenants by providing them with the opportunity to purchase their housing accommodations before the property is offered to outside buyers. The intent is to promote housing stability and affordability, particularly in the face of rising real estate prices.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to Chapter 184 of the General Laws of Massachusetts:

  1. Tenant's Right of First Refusal:

    • Tenants will have the right to purchase their housing accommodations before the property is sold to a third party.
    • This right applies to various forms of housing, including apartments, condominiums, and multi-family dwellings.

  2. Definitions:

    • The bill introduces specific definitions for terms such as "Housing Accommodation," "Owner," "Tenant Association," and "Long-Term Affordable Housing," which clarify the scope and application of the law.
    • "Long-Term Affordable Housing" is defined as housing that meets certain affordability criteria based on Area Median Income (AMI).

  3. Minimum Tenant Participation:

    • A Tenant Association must have at least 51% participation from tenant-occupied housing units to exercise the right of first refusal.
    • This provision ensures that a majority of tenants are involved in the decision-making process.

  4. Designee for Purchase:

    • Tenants may designate a nonprofit or public housing authority to act on their behalf in the purchase process, provided the entity has the necessary experience and financial capacity.

  5. Affordability Restrictions:

    • Properties purchased under this act must be maintained as Long-Term Affordable Housing, with restrictions recorded to ensure compliance for a minimum of 30 years.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Tenants: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are tenants who will gain the opportunity to purchase their homes, potentially preventing displacement and promoting community stability.
  • Property Owners: Owners of rental properties will need to navigate new requirements when selling their properties, including notifying tenants of their right to purchase.
  • Housing Authorities and Nonprofits: These entities may play a role in facilitating purchases on behalf of tenants, thereby increasing their involvement in local housing markets.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Current Status: The bill has been referred to the committee on Housing and is scheduled for a hearing on November 19, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium.
  • Related Legislation: This bill replaces House Docket No. 1925.

Conclusion

Bill H 1544 represents a significant step towards enhancing tenant rights in Massachusetts by providing a structured process for tenants to purchase their homes. By ensuring that tenants have the first opportunity to buy their housing accommodations, the bill aims to foster greater housing security and affordability in the state.

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

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