SJC throws out rent control ballot question

Key Points:

• The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that a proposed rent control ballot question is unconstitutional due to an exemption for religious facilities, which would require government enforcement decisions based on religious purpose.
• The ballot measure aimed to repeal the 1994 ban on rent control and impose strict statewide limits on rent increases, a move supported by tenant advocates amid rising housing costs but opposed by real estate interests.
• The ruling halts the ballot initiative backed by Homes For All Massachusetts, removing tenant advocates' leverage on Beacon Hill and raising doubts about ongoing legislative negotiations for a more modest rent control compromise.
• Real estate developers and opponents praised the decision, citing concerns that rent control would hinder housing development and worsen the state's housing crisis, while tenant groups vowed to continue efforts through the Legislature.
• With no ballot question this year, the future of rent control in Massachusetts remains uncertain, though advocates may refile in 2028, and some stakeholders urge lawmakers to enact a policy before the current legislative session ends.