In a shocking turn of events, yesterday the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that the rent control ballot initiative cannot go on the November ballot because it includes an exemption for housing operated solely for religious purposes, violating the state Constitution.
Read more in this WBUR article here.
We need the Legislature to act now to pass the bill before them (S.1447) that will give local communities the option to adopt rent control.
Springfield No One leaves is organizing! If you are Springfield based, stand-outs are happening today (June 24) through Friday, June 26 from 12:30-1:30pm at Court Square.The push is on to call state leaders with this message:
“My name is ___________. I know last week you were in negotiations around rent control, the court decision doesn’t change the burden rent increases cause for our neighbors and residents of Massachusetts. Continue to fight for S.1447 and working class people.”
Here’s who to call:
Governor Healey’s Constituent Services Main Office 617.725.4005
Springfield Office 413.784.1200
Senate President Karen Spilka 617.722.1500
House Leader Ronald Mariano 617.722.2500
Senate Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues 617.722.1114
House Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz 617.722.2990
And YOUR Rep and Senator too – find their contact info here.
This court decision does nothing to diminish the urgency for the Legislature to act now to address this crisis. They can do what needs to get done. Let’s make sure they hear that directly from us starting now!
