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SD 804

An Act to study single-stair residential buildings

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Connolly and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts establishes commission to study allowing single-stair residential buildings to reduce construction costs and increase housing supply while evaluating fire safety implications.

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Bill Summary · SD 804

Legislative bill overview

SD 804 establishes a special commission to study the feasibility, safety, and regulatory barriers of allowing single-stair residential buildings in Massachusetts. The commission would examine current building codes, fire safety standards, and compare approaches used in other jurisdictions to determine if Massachusetts could permit such construction while maintaining public safety.

Why is this important

Single-stair buildings are significantly cheaper to construct and could expand housing supply in a state facing acute affordability challenges. However, Massachusetts currently prohibits them due to fire safety concerns, so this study would inform whether that prohibition can be reconsidered without compromising resident safety or creating liability issues.

Potential points of contention

  • Fire safety trade-offs: Opponents worry that eliminating dual-stair requirements increases escape risks during emergencies, particularly for elderly or disabled residents, despite other jurisdictions' safety records
  • Housing affordability vs. safety standards: Supporters see cost reduction as critical for addressing the housing crisis, while critics argue safety standards shouldn't be loosened to solve economic problems
  • Insurance and liability implications: Unclear how single-stair buildings would affect insurance rates, municipal liability, and whether developers would face increased legal exposure compared to dual-stair construction

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

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