Rep. John Rogers

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new Auto Damage Appraiser Licensing Board within the Division of Occupational Licensure to regulate professionals who assess vehicle damage. The board will consist of seven members appointed from the auto body repair industry, insurance companies, the Attorney General's office, and consumer representatives, with one member serving as chair. Key provisions include limiting members to two consecutive three-year terms and requiring vacancies to be filled within 60 days. The legislation aims to create a structured oversight body specifically for auto damage appraisers in Massachusetts.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a legal right for home buyers in Massachusetts to have their prospective homes inspected by a licensed professional within ten days of an offer being accepted. It prohibits sellers and their agents from forcing buyers to waive this inspection right, with the exception of sales conducted at licensed auctions. The legislation also prevents sellers from accepting offers from buyers who explicitly state they intend to skip or limit the inspection, unless the buyer is a close family member of the seller. By amending existing state laws, the act ensures that buyers can evaluate critical components like the roof, foundation, and electrical systems before finalizing a purchase.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new chapter in Massachusetts law to protect home buyers by guaranteeing their right to have a residential property inspected by a licensed home inspector within ten days of accepting an offer. It prohibits sellers and their agents from conditioning the sale on a buyer waiving this inspection right, with specific exceptions for family members and certain divorce-related transactions. The legislation also mandates that every purchase offer include a standardized notice informing buyers of this new right and outlining the process for canceling the offer if serious defects are found during the inspection.

Senate, October 19, -- 2023 The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 197) of Michael O. Moore, John J. Cronin, John H. Rogers, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr. and other members of the General Court for legislation to protect consumer rights in purchasing safe and habitable homes; and (accompanied by bill, House, No. 245) of Brian M. Ashe and others for legislation to provide for a right to home inspections for buyers, reports the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2474).

By Mr. Philips of Sharon, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 5140) of Edward R. Philips and others (by vote of the town) relative to the charter of the town of Walpole. Municipalities and Regional Government. [Local Approval Received.]

By Ms. Khan of Newton, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1709) of Kay Khan and others for legislation to prohibit marriage of minors. The Judiciary.

By Mr. Chan of Quincy, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2842) of Tackey Chan and others relative to the expiration date of the film tax credit. Revenue.

By Mr. Moore, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1930) of Michael O. Moore, Anne M. Gobi, Diana DiZoglio, Brian M. Ashe and other members of the General Court for legislation to support job growth in the commonwealth. Revenue.

By Mr. Rush, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1979) of Michael F. Rush, John H. Rogers, Bruce J. Ayers, Paul R. Feeney and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to deeds excise receipts. Revenue.

By Mr. Lesser, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1897) of Eric P. Lesser, Patrick M. O'Connor, Jason M. Lewis, Bruce E. Tarr and other members of the General Court for legislation to provide financial relief to small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Revenue.