This article is part of our series covering crucial proposed 2026 ballot initiatives and how you can support their campaigns.
Why Rents Are So High
In 1994, Massachusetts voters narrowly outlawed rent control via a ballot initiative. Unsurprisingly, rents in the state have skyrocketed without any rent control safeguards in place. Massachusetts now has an average rent that is among the highest in the country.
In 2023, Boston's Mayor Wu proposed a rent stabilization measure that passed the City Council approval by a 11-2 vote. Unfortunately, it could not be enacted because the State House failed to approve it.
What We Can Do About It
Homes for All Massachusetts, a coalition of housing justice groups, has proposed a ballot initiative to revoke the current ban on rent control. The measure would also limit annual rent increases to the cost of living as defined relative to the annual increase in the Consumer Price Index or 5%, whichever is lower. For an apartment that costs $2,000 per month, there would be an annual rent increase no greater than $100/month.
The average Bostonian spends 47% of their income on rent. We need rent control now. And if the State House refuses act, we must mobilize to finally get the ban on rent control lifted.
Recommended Actions
- Keep Massachusetts Home has several volunteer shifts listed on their website at upcoming events around the Boston area. They will also provide training for volunteers. They also have a Google folder packed with useful campaign materials.
- Lynn United For Change is collecting signatures in Lynn. Sign up for shifts here or contact them directly. Donate here to help them with their campaign costs.
- Homes for All Massachusetts is also gathering signatures for this campaign. Sign up to gather signatures; sign up here for other volunteer opportunities and to join their mailing list. Donate here.
- Contact your state legislators to ask them to support the rent control bills currently under consideration for this legislative session: H.2328/S.1447. If these bills pass, the proposed ballot initiative won't be necessary. Tell your legislators to do their jobs and lift the state ban on rent control.
