Rights for the TSA Workforce Act

119th Congress Introduced by Angela Alsobrooks and 28 co-sponsors

Bill S 997 creates an Office of Tenant Protections in Massachusetts to enforce housing standards, ensuring safer living conditions for renters and holding landlords accountable.

Introduced in Senate

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 997 aims to establish an Office of Tenant Protections within the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities in Massachusetts. The primary goal of this office is to enhance tenant rights and ensure compliance with housing standards, thereby improving the living conditions for renters across the Commonwealth.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant provisions, including:

Creation of the Office:

The Office of Tenant Protections will be established within the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.
A director will be appointed by the Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities to oversee the office.

Enforcement Powers:

The office will enforce minimum standards of fitness for human habitation as defined by the State Sanitary Code (105 CMR 410.000).
It will have the authority to:
- Inspect residential properties.
- Issue orders of noncompliance for violations of housing standards.
- Conduct hearings regarding these orders.
- Impose fines for violations in accordance with existing regulations.

Judicial Appeal Process:

Decisions regarding noncompliance will be subject to judicial appeal, similar to processes established for local boards of health.

Regulatory Authority:

The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities will be responsible for promulgating regulations or guidance necessary to implement the provisions of this bill.

Who Would Be Affected

Tenants: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation will be tenants in Massachusetts, who will gain better protections and enforcement of their rights regarding housing conditions.

Landlords: Property owners will be subject to increased scrutiny and potential penalties for noncompliance with housing standards.

Local Health Boards: The office will work in conjunction with local boards of health to enforce housing standards.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025.

Hearing Scheduled: A public hearing is set for November 19, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium, where stakeholders can provide input on the bill.

Legislative Actions: The bill has been referred to the Committee on Housing and has received concurrence from the House.

Conclusion

Bill S 997 represents a significant step toward enhancing tenant protections in Massachusetts. By establishing a dedicated office with enforcement capabilities, the legislation seeks to ensure that all residents have access to safe and habitable living conditions. The upcoming hearing will provide an opportunity for public discussion and further refinement of the bill's provisions.

Bill