Massachusetts Court Rules on Housing Law Enforcement

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court upheld the constitutionality of the MBTA Communities Act, which mandates that certain communities must create zoning for multifamily housing. However, the court ruled that the detailed guidelines for enforcing the law were improperly established and must be revised through a proper public process before they can take effect. This ruling partially supports Attorney General Andrea Campbell's authority to compel compliance, as she can sue noncompliant municipalities like Milton, which rejected its zoning plan. The decision has significant implications for the 177 communities affected, as many are awaiting guidance on how to implement the law. Governor Maura Healey's office indicated that emergency regulations would be filed to facilitate compliance. The ruling is considered a step forward in addressing Massachusetts' housing affordability crisis.