Limits rent increases and establishes a rental arbitrator to resolve disputes.

This bill limits annual rent increases for tenants in Massachusetts to 5% plus the Chained Consumer Price Index or 10%, whichever is lower. It creates a rental arbitrator within the Attorney General's office to resolve disputes over rent increases and other lease issues. The arbitrator must reach a final determination within 90 days of a complaint. Landlords violating the rent increase limit must return overpayments and face fines. The arbitrator also conducts an annual review of the rental market and submits a report to the legislature.

Limits rent increases and establishes a rental arbitrator to resolve disputes.

This bill limits annual rent increases for tenants in Massachusetts to 5% plus the Chained Consumer Price Index or 10%, whichever is lower. It creates a rental arbitrator within the Attorney General's office to resolve disputes over rent increases and other lease issues. The arbitrator must reach a final determination within 90 days of a complaint. Landlords violating the rent increase limit must return overpayments and face fines. The arbitrator also conducts an annual review of the rental market and submits a report to the legislature.