MCAD Proposes Changes to Rules of Procedure; Submit Commentary by Jan. 28, 2026

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) has proposed changes to its Rules of Procedure, found in 804 CMR 1.0. The suggested changes are open to public commentary through the end of January 2026. See the full redline version.

Most of the changes appear to be for clarity and ease of reading, but there are some significant proposed changes as well. For example, suggested deletions within the redline version of the statute lead us to believe the MCAD will no longer be adjudicating cases related to HUD discrimination claims.

Other proposed changes appear to increase the size of the MCAD commission from three to five members, and extended timelines for some aspects of the complaint process. Verbiage changes also state that, with some exceptions, complaints will need to be filed through the MCAD’s online portal.

These suggestions will be open to public commentary. The MCAD will hold hybrid meetings over Zoom and in person on Jan. 23, 26 and 28, 2026. All testimony and comments must be submitted to the MCAD by Jan. 30 to be considered.

If you have specific expertise with the MCAD process, including if you are an attorney, and would like to submit commentary after reading the redline document, please send it to us at hello@masslandlords.net no later than Wednesday, Jan. 28.

We will combine all received testimony and submit it on behalf of MassLandlords by the deadline.