Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities

Rule Changes

Must repromulgate compliance guidelines after the Milton ruling

Massachusetts's highest court upheld the MBTA Communities Act for the second time in September, rejecting the town of Marshfield's claims that the 2021 law violates home rule or is an unfunded mandate. The ruling locks in the state's power to require 177 MBTA-adjacent communities to zone for apartments and townhomes.

Updated Oct 19

Money Moves

As of September 2026: Administers housing funding and programs

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey announced the state's largest housing funding round in over a decade: $278 million for 29 projects across 20 communities. The awards draw on the 2024 Affordable Homes Act, which expanded state subsidies and tax credits for housing.

Updated Sep 6

Money Moves

As of September 2026: State housing policy agency; produced the 222,000-home analysis

Massachusetts needs at least 222,000 new homes over the next decade. Accessory dwelling units (backyard cottages, converted basements, over-garage apartments) are one way to add them without new land or large-scale construction.

Updated Sep 3