The bill introduces a new requirement for the Massachusetts Trial Court to submit a monthly report on summary process cases, specifically focusing on eviction filings, actions, and dispositions, in compliance with General Laws Chapter 239, Section 15. This report will include detailed statistics on various aspects of eviction cases, such as the number of actions filed, default judgments, executions for possession orders, continuances and stays related to short-term emergency rental assistance, and participation in pre-trial mediation. The report aims to provide transparency and data-driven insights into the eviction process in Massachusetts, covering the period from January 2024 through June 2025.
Additionally, the bill includes specific insertions to enhance the reporting framework, such as the inclusion of a link to a public data dashboard for further information on eviction filings and related statistics. It also specifies the average length of continuances and stays granted, as well as the number of landlords and tenants receiving legal representation. The report will serve as a vital tool for lawmakers and committees to assess the impact of eviction proceedings and the effectiveness of rental assistance programs, ultimately aiming to improve housing stability in the state.