New Law to Shield Eviction Records

After years of debate, Massachusetts has introduced a pivotal law designed to allow tenants to remove certain eviction records from public access. Governor Maura Healey signed this legislation on August 6 as part of the Affordable Homes Act, with implementation set for May 5, 2025. This law not only grants tenants the right to petition for the sealing of eviction records but also imposes significant constraints on credit reporting agencies regarding their use of such data.

The legislation permits tenants to request the court to seal eviction records, helping to prevent these records from impacting future housing applications. Tenant rights groups view this as a step toward housing security for those affected by economic hardship, while landlords worry that the inability to access eviction history could lead to more stringent rental requirements, such as higher credit score expectations. A 270-day transition period.....