H4977

Invest billions in affordable housing and public housing modernization.

State: Massachusetts

Status: Enacted ✅

Magnitude: Major

Formal Title: An Act relative to the Affordable Homes Act.

Summary: Allocates $5.16 billion over five years for affordable housing and public housing rehabilitation. Provides $800M for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to create and preserve affordable housing, including assistance for first-time homebuyers in disproportionately impacted communities. Funds $425M for new construction and rehabilitation through the Housing Stabilization and Investment Fund, and $2B for modernizing public housing. Supports green housing initiatives and authorizes borrowing against capital funds for housing authorities. Permits Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) under 900 square feet by-right in single-family zoning districts, eliminates owner occupancy requirements, and prohibits parking mandates within ½ mile of transit.

Main sponsors: Maura Healey

Legislative text: https://malegislature.gov/Laws/SessionLaws/Acts/2024/Chapter150