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HD 3335

Resolve establishing a special commission to study and make recommendations relative to Chapter 40B

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Day

Massachusetts establishes special commission to study Chapter 40B affordable housing law and recommend reforms balancing developer incentives with local control and community concerns.

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Bill Summary · HD 3335

Legislative bill overview

HD 3335 establishes a special commission tasked with studying Massachusetts' Chapter 40B, the state's affordable housing law that allows developers to bypass local zoning restrictions if a municipality has fewer than 10% affordable units. The commission would analyze the law's effectiveness, implementation challenges, and develop recommendations for potential reforms or improvements to the statute.

Why is this important

Chapter 40B is one of the most powerful and contentious housing policy tools in Massachusetts, directly shaping development patterns and housing affordability across the state. The study could inform major policy decisions affecting housing supply, local control, developer incentives, and neighborhood character in municipalities statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. housing supply: Municipalities often oppose Chapter 40B for limiting zoning authority, while housing advocates argue it's essential for creating affordable units and preventing exclusionary zoning
  • Developer incentives and community impact: Debate over whether the law strikes the right balance between incentivizing developers and protecting existing communities from unwanted density
  • Definition of affordability: Questions about whether current affordability thresholds (30% of area median income) adequately serve low-income residents or should be adjusted

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

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