MA House Debates, Approves Housing Bond Bill

Late on Wednesday evening, the House of Representatives passed the 2023 Housing Bond Bill by a vote of  145-13.   During a debate that started at 1pm, representatives considered more than 300 amendments to the legislation and made significant improvements to what is now a $6.2 billion housing proposal.

Among the changes to the bill include:

• A doubling of the Historic Rehab Tax Credit to $110 million and an extension of the credit until 2030.
• The inclusion of state commissions on Extremely Low Income Housing and Accessible Housing for Persons with Disabilities.  
• A doubling of the authorization for Middle Income Housing to $200 million.  

Representatives also rejected a number of amendments that would have undermined or weakened the MBTA Communities Act, Chapter 40B, and allowing Accessory Dwelling Units by right.  

CHAPA applauds the work of Speaker Marino, Chair Arciero, and Chair Michlewitz, as well as their staffs, on this important legislation.  

On the path to eventual enactment, the Senate is now on tap to take up the bill.  Stay tuned for more opportunities to advocate for this legsilation!