LOCAL BILLS

Home rule petitions are requests that come from a community. They are approved by the Mayor and City Council or the Select Board and Town Meeting before the legislature is asked to file them. The following are pending home rule petitions.

An Act amending the special act charter of the city of Northampton to allow resident non-citizens to vote in preliminary and city elections

This bill amends Chapter 277 of the Acts of 2012 to allow all residents, both citizens and noncitizens, to vote in preliminary, special, and regular city elections, as long as they are not disqualified under state law. It specifically applies to elections for ward councilors or ward school committee members. The bill also renumbers articles 8-6 and 8-7. The act takes effect immediately upon passage. Filed at the request of the City of Northampton.

An Act amending the special act charter of the city of Northampton to allow residents sixteen years of age or older to vote in preliminary and city elections

This bill amends article 8 to allow residents aged 16 or older to vote in all preliminary, special, and regular city elections, including elections for ward councilors or ward school committee members. It applies to both citizens and noncitizens, as long as they are not disqualified under state law. The bill renumbers article 8-6 to 8-7 and article 8-7 to 8-8. The act takes effect immediately upon passage. Filed at the request of the City of Northampton.

An Act relative to ranked choice voting in the city of Northampton

This bill introduces ranked choice voting for all city elections in Northampton, including regular, special, and preliminary elections, for both single-seat and multi-seat races. It establishes procedures for tabulating ranked votes, including eliminating the lowest-ranked candidates in rounds and redistributing votes until candidates meet the required election threshold. The bill also mandates non-partisan elections, specifies ballot position drawing procedures, and divides the city into seven wards. Additionally, it requires a referendum to accept this amendment to the city's charter through a ballot question. Filed at the request of the City of Northampton.

An Act relative to the town of Hatfield to permit the use of golf carts on the public ways of the town

This bill allows golf carts to be driven on public roads in Hatfield with specific regulations, including registration, safety inspection, and proof of insurance. Operators must have a valid driver’s license, adhere to speed limits, and avoid alcohol consumption while driving. Golf carts must not exceed 20 mph and may only operate during daylight unless approved for special events. The town may impose fines for violations, and the law takes effect immediately. Filed at the request of the Town of Hatfield.

An Act to prohibit landlords and brokers from requiring broker's commissions to be paid by a tenant or prospective tenant

This bill prohibits real estate brokers and landlords in Northampton from charging tenants or prospective tenants any fees for services related to renting residential properties. It also bans requiring tenants to hire brokers as a condition for leasing. Violations are considered unfair trade practices under Massachusetts law, with penalties of up to $1,000 per violation. The law takes effect immediately upon passage. Filed at the request of the City of Northampton.