The bill amends several sections of the General Laws related to "Lead Hazard Mitigation," specifically addressing the responsibilities of property owners of pre-1978 rental dwellings. Key provisions include the substitution of "housing resources commission" with the "department of health" for lead hazard mitigation purposes. Property owners are required to ensure that their properties do not house or contain at-risk occupants and must comply with lead hazard mitigation standards.

The bill introduces new enforcement mechanisms, allowing tenants to petition for their rent to be deposited in an escrow account if their rental property is not compliant with lead hazard regulations. The court may release these funds to the property owner for necessary repairs or to the tenant if they have incurred costs to comply with lead standards, provided that the tenant has given adequate written notice of their intent to conduct repairs and the landlord has willfully failed to take corrective action or respond within a reasonable timeframe.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that certain exemptions apply to properties that are lead-safe, temporary housing, elderly housing, or do not contain at-risk occupants. The act aims to enhance lead hazard mitigation efforts and streamline processes for both property owners and tenants. This act would take effect upon passage.