Gov. Healey opposes 2026 rent control ballot measure, citing housing shortage risks.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey opposes a 2026 ballot measure that would impose statewide rent control, citing risks to housing investment and construction. She supports capping annual rent increases at 5% or the CPI, whichever is lower, but argues such limits could deter development amid a critical housing shortage. Healey backs expanding public records access to her office and the Legislature, while emphasizing her focus on increasing housing supply through broader reforms. The proposal, backed by 67% of voters in a recent poll, now faces legislative review, with advocates needing to gather more signatures if it doesn’t pass.