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S 1013

FISH AND GAME – Amends existing law to provide for trapping education and licensing.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

Bill S 1013 allows Massachusetts tenants and condo owners to install portable air conditioners, enhancing access to cooling and protecting health during extreme heat.

Signed by Governor on 03/12/25 Session Law Chapter 50 Effective: 07/01/2025
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Bill Summary · S 1013

Summary of Bill S 1013: An Act Relative to Access to Air Conditioning and Relief from Oppressive Heat

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 1013 aims to enhance access to air conditioning and provide relief from oppressive heat for tenants and condominium owners in Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to ensure that individuals can install portable cooling devices without unreasonable restrictions, thereby promoting health and safety during extreme heat conditions.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important amendments to existing laws:

1. Tenant Rights Regarding Portable Cooling Devices

  • Definition: A "portable cooling device" includes air conditioners and evaporative coolers, excluding devices that require alterations to the dwelling.
  • Landlord Restrictions: Landlords cannot prohibit tenants from installing or using portable cooling devices unless:
    • It violates building codes or laws.
    • It damages the premises or makes it uninhabitable.
    • It requires more electrical power than the building can accommodate.
    • It interferes with necessary egress or security features.
  • Written Restrictions: Any restrictions imposed by landlords must be documented in writing and delivered to tenants.
  • Liability Protection: Landlords are immune from liability for damages caused by tenant-installed cooling devices.

2. Condominium Regulations

  • Governing Documents: Provisions in condominium governing documents that restrict the installation or use of portable cooling devices are void unless they meet specific criteria similar to those for landlords.
  • Central Air Conditioning: Restrictions can only be enforced if the building has a central air conditioning system.

3. Study on Cooling Assistance

  • The Department of Housing and Community Development, in collaboration with the Department of Public Health, is tasked with studying the feasibility of applying for federal funding to provide cooling assistance under the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
  • The study will assess:
    • The number of households that could qualify for cooling assistance.
    • Potential health impacts, particularly concerning heat-related illnesses.
    • The implications for existing heating assistance programs.
  • A report on the findings is due by July 1, 2024.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Tenants: Individuals renting apartments will benefit from the ability to install cooling devices without undue restrictions.
  • Condominium Owners: Owners in condominiums will have clearer rights regarding the installation of cooling devices.
  • Low-Income Households: The proposed study aims to identify households that could benefit from cooling assistance, particularly those in heat-prone areas.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Status: A hearing is scheduled for November 19, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium.
  • Legislative Actions: The bill was referred to the Housing Committee and has received concurrence from the House.

Conclusion

Bill S 1013 represents a significant step toward ensuring that residents of Massachusetts have access to necessary cooling solutions during extreme heat events. By clarifying tenant rights and promoting studies on cooling assistance, the bill aims to protect public health and enhance living conditions for vulnerable populations.

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

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