Massachusetts Senate Advances Trio of Crucial Bills Including Real Estate Appraisal Reform

Senate lawmakers in Massachusetts are gearing up to address a range of issues, including feline declawing, consumer protection in real estate, and antiquated laws related to sexual activity. The Senate’s budget writing committee, acting as a clearing house for bills, is paving the way for crucial votes on these matters in the coming week.

Consumer Protection in Real Estate Appraisals

Sen. Cindy Creem, a Newton Democrat, is championing legislation to ensure that all real estate appraisals in Massachusetts are exclusively conducted by certified or licensed appraisers. Currently, the state allows individuals without specific education or experience standards to perform valuation services, exposing consumers to potential risks. Creem's bill seeks to enhance accountability and regulatory oversight in this vital sector.

Towards LGBTQIA+ Inclusivity

Sen. William Brownsberger, a Belmont Democrat, is pushing for the removal of archaic language criminalizing sodomy and "unnatural" acts between consenting adults. This move is aimed at fostering inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ community. Brownsberger's proposal not only strikes down outdated terminology dating back to the 1800s but also suggests the establishment of a permanent law revision commission to identify and reform old statutes, decisions, and language.

Banning Declawing Procedures

Sen. Mark Montigny is taking a stand on animal welfare by proposing a bill to ban surgical procedures like declawing or tendonectomy on cats, unless medically necessary. This legislation reflects a growing trend seen in New York and Maryland, where similar statewide bans have been implemented. Montigny's bill aims to protect feline health by restricting such procedures to cases where the cat's well-being is at risk.

Legislative Momentum in 2024

A wave of legislative activity is shaping the start of 2024 in Massachusetts. Recent Senate actions include passing bills on fiscal responsibility, allowing the state to utilize interest from the rainy day fund, and addressing issues like revenge porn. The House has also been proactive, passing bills on wheelchair warranties, legalizing fentanyl test strips, and facilitating interactions between people with autism and law enforcement through specially designed blue envelopes.

In summary, Massachusetts lawmakers are on a mission to bring about meaningful change by addressing outdated sexual laws, enhancing consumer protections, and advocating for the welfare of animals, reflecting the evolving priorities of the state.