Chapter 40B, an affordable housing statute in Massachusetts established in 1969, has led to the development of thousands of affordable units. Local leaders, including Congressman Jake Auchincloss, are calling for reforms to the law, specifically regarding the 'safe harbor' threshold that protects certain communities. Auchincloss suggests that Governor Maura Healey could alter regulations to spur local action, though he acknowledges this would be a significant measure. The current allowance for market-rate homes to count towards affordable housing percentages is criticized for undermining the law's intent.
Having the governor alter the law would, he made clear, be 'a nuclear option,' but it 'would be the kind of stick that could galvanize more local action.'
40B has made a difference in every community that's been part of that program. But it's in need of reform,
Currently, 40B regulations allow market rate homes to be counted towards municipalities' 'safe harbor' threshold. This means that even though communities may have met the 10% threshold, that doesn't necessarily mean 10% of their housing is affordable.
Chapter 40B was enacted in 1969 to encourage affordable housing development. It has created thousands of affordable units.
Collection
[
|
...
]