The bill aims to establish pet-friendly policies for elderly residents in state-aided public housing by amending Chapter 23B of the General Laws. It introduces a new section, Section 5C, which empowers the executive office of housing and livable communities to maintain a pet ownership program for residents who can reasonably care for their pets, while adhering to public health and animal control regulations. The bill outlines reasonable requirements for pet ownership, such as a pet deposit not exceeding $160, limitations on the number of pets based on unit size, and the necessity for pet owners to have adequate care plans. It also prohibits outright bans on dogs and discrimination based on breed, size, or appearance, while allowing for regulations that ensure the safety and well-being of both pets and residents.

Additionally, the bill establishes an advisory group composed of various stakeholders, including representatives from housing authorities, tenant organizations, and animal welfare groups. This group is tasked with assisting in updating pet ownership regulations, developing suitable pet policies for different housing types, and creating guidance for the establishment of pet committees and grievance panels at housing authorities. The advisory group will also collect data from housing authorities and residents, aggregate pet care resources, and propose legislative recommendations related to pets in state-aided public housing.