MA H1476

Directs the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to maintain pet ownership programs for residents of state-aided elderly public housing and institute programs for all state-aided public housing

Prohibits state-aided public housing facilities from banning dogs based on breed, size, weight, or appearance; requiring pet declawing; charging pet deposits exceeding $160 or one month's rent (whichever is less); or evicting tenants solely for having a pet

Dogs declared dangerous by a municipality under Chapter 140, Section 157 remain excluded from state-aided housing

Creates an advisory group including housing officials, tenant representatives, MSPCA, Animal Rescue League of Boston, and animal control to develop pet policies, establish pet committees and grievance panels, and propose legislative recommendations

Housing authorities that violate the pet ownership provisions are subject to penalties under Chapter 23B, Section 5C