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 S1827

Relative to public safety dispatchers

MA S2380

Improving safety measures for highway maintenance personnel

MA S1829

Relative to certain licensed pipefitters and refrigeration technicians

MA S1962

Excluding student loan forgiveness from taxable income for permanently and totally disabled veterans

MA S1963

Excluding the Segal AmeriCorps Educational Award from taxable income

MA S1667

Relative to motor vehicle battery storage

MA S297

Relative to gateway municipalities

MA S575

Providing transparency for the Blue Hills Reservation Trust Fund

Similar Bills

MA H1983

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

TX SB848

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

TX HB3021

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TX SB889

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

TX HB2486

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

MA S765

Establishing a Massachusetts foreclosure prevention program

MA H1090

Establishing a Massachusetts foreclosure prevention program

MA H1807

Relative to foreclosure mediation