MA S1447

Repeals Chapter 40P of the General Laws and creates a new local option (Chapter 49B) allowing Massachusetts cities and towns to adopt rent stabilization and just cause eviction protections within 180 days of acceptance.

Caps annual rent increases at the lower of the Consumer Price Index or 5%, using the rent from 12 months prior to adoption as the base rent.

Exempts owner-occupied buildings with 4 or fewer units, publicly-regulated housing, college dormitories, elderly care facilities, and new construction (units receiving first certificate of occupancy after January 1, 2021) for 5 years.

Requires landlords to have "just cause" for evictions, including nonpayment, lease violations, criminal activity, substantial property damage, owner occupancy, or conversion to condo/non-residential use.

Violations constitute unfair and deceptive practices under Chapter 93A, with tenants entitled to actual damages or three times the rent amount (whichever is greater) plus attorneys' fees.