S 1553 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act building a more accessible Massachusetts

This bill amends the laws governing the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board to ensure better representation and broader accessibility standards for people with disabilities. It requires that the board include specific members, such as licensed architects and building inspectors, while also mandating that three members be selected in consultation with disability advocacy groups. The legislation directs the board to update rules so that new and renovated buildings, including parking areas, have adequate accessible features like proper turning radii for wheelchairs. Additionally, it sets a requirement that at least five percent of units in large residential buildings be fully accessible, with flexibility for areas where local needs differ.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
May 2024
House Passage
Apr 2024
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action May 16, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
8
Key actions
4
Committee
2
May 16, 2024
Upper · Passed
Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
upper
Apr 25, 2024
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Apr 4, 2024
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security
upper
1 primary · 11 co-sponsors

Sponsors