An Act encouraging smart growth and starter home zoning adoption

This bill amends Massachusetts zoning laws to provide financial incentives for towns that adopt specific zoning districts designed to encourage affordable housing and efficient land use. It directly affects cities and towns that approve smart growth or starter home zoning districts by offering state funding to support these initiatives. The legislation establishes two types of payments: a lump sum based on the total number of new housing units planned in a district, and an additional payment of $6,000 for each individual building permit issued for new construction. These funds are intended to help municipalities cover the costs associated with updating zoning regulations and managing the development of new housing.