Legislature Passes Housing Rights Bill Proposed by Newton Sen. Creem
Under the bill, victims of domestic violence and sexual assault who live in private housing can receive protections similar to those currently available to residents of public housing.
The Massachusetts Legislature last week unanimously passed a bill sponsored by Senator Cynthia Stone Creem (D-Newton), representing Wellesley, that aims to protect housing rights for victims of domestic violence, stalking and sexual assault. Under the bill, victims who live in private housing would be able to break a lease with a landlord without financial penalty if his or her safety is in jeopardy, the press release said. In addition, the bill forbids landlords to waive these rights in a lease and protects from discrimination against tenants, the press release said. These are protections similar to those currently available under federal law to residents of public housing. “Maintaining and securing safe and affordable housing is often…
