An Act relative to the use of credit reporting in housing

This bill prohibits landlords in Massachusetts from using credit reports to screen tenants unless specific conditions are met. Landlords must obtain written consent from applicants for each report, explain the reason for the check in writing, and ensure the cost of the report is not passed on to the tenant. If a landlord plans to deny housing based on the report, they must inform the applicant at least 14 days in advance, provide a copy of the report, and allow the applicant to dispute the information before a final decision is made. The law also bans retaliation against anyone who files a complaint or disputes the accuracy of their credit information. These rules apply to all residential rental properties and take effect 90 days after the bill is passed.