Maura Healey took the oath of office today as the 73rd governor of Massachusetts.  She has pledged to tackle housing challenges as a priority, as well as cost of living, workforce, transportation and climate change.  Some housing items in her inaugural speech will bear watching:

• Within 100 days, create a dedicated Secretary of Housing to “work across government and support every city and town to make sure we meet our goals”
• Identify “unused state-owned land and facilities that we can turn into rental housing or homes within one year;”
• Expand tax deductions for renters; and more…

House Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka both agree with this housing priority, but the rest of the agenda has more debate.  Some of you might remember NAR staff member Kristian Hoysradt on our zoom calls during COVID – he shared the incredible news that he is moving back to Massachusetts to serve as the Lieutenant Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff, so we will value this connection to the Governor’s office.  Our 2023 Government Affairs Committee is just forming and if you’re interested in this and other local housing issues or community engagement, join us!  Please let Sandy know if you’re interested in serving if you haven’t done so yet!