Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S1071

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Relative to unlawful practices in the servicing and foreclosure of a subordinate mortgage

Impact

If enacted, S1071 will amend existing state laws to include specific prohibitions against various practices that could disadvantage borrowers. These include failure to provide timely written communications, and pre-foreclosure notices or periodic statements as required by law. The bill empowers borrowers to take legal action if creditors do not comply with these requirements, including the ability to challenge foreclosure actions. This approach not only serves to protect consumers but also ensures that creditors adhere to fair practices, potentially reducing wrongful foreclosures and improving overall market integrity.

Summary

Senate Bill S1071, titled 'An Act relative to unlawful practices in the servicing and foreclosure of a subordinate mortgage,' aims to provide greater protections for borrowers with subordinate mortgages in Massachusetts. The bill introduces a new section under Chapter 244 of the General Laws, defining unlawful practices in mortgage servicing and establishing clear requirements for creditors during the foreclosure process. Notably, it mandates that creditors must communicate essential loan information to borrowers and ensures they follow stricter protocols when servicing these loans. This legislation seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the handling of subordinate mortgages, crucial for maintaining consumer trust and financial stability for homeowners.

Contention

There may be contention surrounding the implementation and enforcement of the regulations set forth by S1071. Some stakeholders could argue that the requirements placed on creditors might lead to increased operational costs and administrative burdens. Additionally, there might be concerns about the balance between protecting borrowers and ensuring that financial institutions can effectively manage their mortgage portfolios. As legislators consider this bill, there will likely be debates over its potential impacts on both consumers and lenders, as well as the effectiveness of these legal safeguards.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H1083

To facilitate alternatives to foreclosure

MA S653

Establishing a Massachusetts foreclosure prevention program

MA H942

Establishing a Massachusetts foreclosure prevention program

MA S1104

Protecting homeowners from unnecessary foreclosures

MA H1404

Protecting homeowners from unnecessary foreclosures

MA H2036

Enabling municipal pre-foreclosure mediation

MA S626

For a right of first refusal for foreclosed property (Foreclosure TOPA)

MA H1162

For a right of first refusal for foreclosed property (Foreclosure TOPA)

MA S912

To amend the foreclosure statute to require judicial foreclosure

MA S1017

Establishing a foreclosure review division

Similar Bills

MA H1983

Relative to unlawful practices in the servicing and foreclosure of a subordinate mortgage

NJ A3154

Provides forbearance of residential mortgage foreclosures under certain circumstances; places additional requirements on attorneys, residential mortgage lenders, and courts, as part of foreclosure process.

NJ A865

Provides forbearance of residential mortgage foreclosures under certain circumstances; places additional requirements on attorneys, residential mortgage lenders, and courts, as part of foreclosure process.

VA HB184

Foreclosure procedures; subordinate mortgage, affidavit required.

DC B25-0485

Uniform Commercial Real Estate Receivership Act of 2023

CA AB1193

Real property: property records: personal identifying information.

TX SB848

Relating to assignment of rents to holders of certain security interests in real property.

TX HB3021

Relating to assignment of rents to holders of certain security interests in real property.