MA S965

Amends Chapter 151B of Massachusetts General Laws to prohibit local and state government bodies from engaging in "discriminatory land use practices" through zoning regulations, permitting decisions, or funding actions

Protects housing for families and individuals earning at or below 80% of area median income (as defined by HUD), housing with more than two bedrooms for families with children, and housing based on protected classes including race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, disability, and familial status

Provides an affirmative defense for government entities that can prove their action was motivated by a substantial, legitimate governmental interest with no less discriminatory alternative available

Allows aggrieved persons to file civil lawsuits in District, Superior, Housing, Probate, or Land Court within 3 years, seeking injunctive relief, actual damages, punitive damages for intentional discrimination, attorney's fees, and court costs

Authorizes the Attorney General to bring civil actions and permits complainants to file with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination without exhausting other administrative remedies