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S 968

Rent Relief Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Raphael Warnock

Bill S 968 provides legal representation for low-income tenants facing eviction in Massachusetts, promoting housing stability and preventing homelessness.

Introduced in Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 968

Summary of Bill S 968: An Act Promoting Access to Counsel and Housing Stability in Massachusetts

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 968 aims to establish a statewide Access to Counsel Program in Massachusetts to provide legal representation for individuals facing eviction. The bill seeks to promote housing stability and prevent homelessness, particularly in light of challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. It recognizes the negative impacts of eviction, including homelessness, overcrowding, and disruptions to education and health.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important provisions:

  1. Access to Counsel Program:

    • Establishes a statewide program to provide full legal representation to eligible individuals in eviction cases.
    • The program will be funded through a dedicated appropriation from the General Court.

  2. Eligibility Criteria:

    • Individuals eligible for assistance include indigent tenants or owner-occupants of small dwellings (1-3 family homes) who meet specific income thresholds.
    • An "indigent" individual is defined as someone receiving public assistance or earning 80% or less of the area median income.

  3. Designated Organizations:

    • The Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation will designate nonprofit organizations to provide legal assistance and outreach.
    • These organizations must demonstrate expertise in housing law and a commitment to serving low-income communities.

  4. Legal Representation:

    • Eligible individuals will receive full legal representation, including legal advice, advocacy, and assistance in eviction proceedings.
    • The program will ensure that information about tenant rights is available in multiple languages to serve diverse communities.

  5. Advisory Committee:

    • An advisory committee will be established to oversee the implementation of the program and ensure transparency in the selection of designated organizations.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly benefit low-income tenants facing eviction by providing them with access to legal counsel. This support aims to reduce the number of evictions, thereby promoting housing stability and improving overall community health and economic outcomes.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Hearing Scheduled: November 19, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium.
  • Legislative Actions:
    • Referred to the committee on Housing on the same day it was introduced.
    • The House has concurred with the bill.

Sponsors

The bill is sponsored by Senator Sal N. DiDomenico, with numerous cosponsors, including:
- Vanna Howard
- Joanne M. Comerford
- Thomas M. Stanley
- Manny Cruz
- Patricia D. Jehlen
- Liz Miranda
- Susannah M. Whipps
- Brendan P. Crighton
- John F. Keenan
- Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr.
- Nick Collins
- John C. Velis
- Mike Connolly
- Jacob R. Oliveira
- Dylan A. Fernandes
- Adam Gómez
- Rebecca L. Rausch

Related Legislation

This bill replaces Senate Docket No. 1771, which was filed in the previous session.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 968, detailing its purpose, key provisions, potential impact, and procedural status to inform stakeholders and the public about its significance in promoting housing stability in Massachusetts.

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

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