Bill Would Allow state to Maintain Affordable Housing Stock

State Representative Geraldo Alicea joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation to preserve affordable housing and protect tenants living in publicly-assisted housing.

The bill allows the state and localities to purchase affordable housing units before they hit the open market. The legislation also protects tenants of affordable housing units by requiring that they be given 24 months notice of affordability termination.

“This will keep a roof over the heads of Massachusetts’ neediest residents at a time when conditions are most difficult,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. “It underscores the essence of legislative action: alleviating people’s pain during very tough times.”

“During these difficult times, I think it is more important than ever to preserve affordable housing in the Commonwealth” said Representative Alicea. “With this legislation, the House has taken an important step in ensuring that more seniors, disabled and low income working families will continue to have a roof over their head and a place to call home”.

The bill now heads to the Senate for approval.