HD 3548 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act to establish a window falls prevention program within the Department of Public Health and mandate window guards in residential homes AKA "Zella Ray's Law"

This bill requires window guards in residential homes where children under six live on the third floor or higher, directly affecting landlords and homeowners in multi-story buildings. Landlords must install and provide window guards at no cost to tenants, with fines of $500-$1,000 for discrimination against renters. It establishes a Department of Public Health program to educate families about window fall risks and provide technical assistance for prevention. Violations, such as obstructing installations, can incur civil penalties up to $10,000.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor