MA S968

Establishes a statewide Access to Counsel Program administered by the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation to provide free legal representation to low-income tenants and owner-occupants of 1-3 family homes facing eviction proceedings

Eligibility extends to individuals receiving public assistance (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, veterans benefits, etc.) or earning 80% or less of area median income, or those unable to afford legal costs without sacrificing basic necessities

Requires landlords to attach a court-approved form to eviction notices informing tenants of their potential eligibility for free legal counsel and available housing assistance programs

Creates a 15-member advisory committee including low-income tenants, owner-occupants, community organizations, and municipal officials to advise on program policies, with the program phased in over 5 years

Designated as an emergency law taking effect immediately upon passage, with funding through a dedicated line-item in the Judiciary section of the state budget