The Affordable Homes Act, as outlined in Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2024, amends the comprehensive permit statute (G.L. c. 40B, §§ 20-23) to enhance accountability and transparency regarding delays in the Housing Appeals Committee's (HAC) decision-making process. The Act mandates that the Secretary of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) submit an annual report to the Governor and the Joint Committee on Housing, summarizing any delays in appeals pending with the HAC. Specifically, the new legal language requires the Committee to notify the Secretary of any extensions or failures to meet deadlines, along with the reasons for such delays. The first report is due by November 1, 2024, and must include details such as missed deadlines, reasons for delays, and the total number of days taken to issue decisions.

The reporting requirements established by the Affordable Homes Act specify that the HAC must adhere to strict timelines for notifying zoning boards, commencing hearings, and issuing final decisions. The Committee has 10 days to notify the zoning board of an appeal, 20 days to start the hearing, and 30 days post-hearing to issue a decision, unless extended by mutual agreement. The report will also cover cases where extensions were granted or deadlines were missed, providing a comprehensive overview of the HAC's performance in handling appeals. This initiative aims to streamline the appeals process and ensure timely resolutions for comprehensive permit applications.