Massachusetts Rent-Control Initiative Gains Strong Public Support

A 2026 Massachusetts ballot measure to establish statewide rent control has cleared a major signature-gathering hurdle, submitting over 124,000 signatures, surpassing the 74,574 required. The proposal would limit annual rent increases to the lower of the Consumer Price Index or 5%, exclude small owner-occupied buildings, and apply to all cities and towns. Supporters cite housing crisis relief, while critics warn it could reduce housing supply and harm the economy.