To require the disclosure of lead in water pipes

The bill amends the existing Section 197A of chapter 111 of the General Laws to require that any disclosure of lead hazards in properties also include information about lead in plumbing and water piping, including water service lines. This means that when selling a property, sellers must now inform potential buyers about any lead present in the water pipes, not just in the paint or plaster.

MA S1566 is a senate bill in the Massachusetts 194th General Court, sponsored by Jason Lewis (D), currently “Introduced” since February 27, 2025.

We track 6,464 Massachusetts bills this session, 88 of them sponsored by Jason Lewis.

Supporters of the bill would likely emphasize its importance for public health, particularly the protection of families from the dangers of lead exposure. They might highlight how the law increases transparency in real estate transactions and ensures that homebuyers are fully informed about potential hazards in their new homes. This could lead to safer living environments, especially for young children who are most vulnerable to lead poisoning.

Critics of the bill may argue that it imposes additional burdens on property sellers, who now must conduct potentially costly inspections and disclosures of lead in water pipes. They might also claim that the requirement could complicate real estate transactions, slow down the housing market, and create challenges for sellers in older homes where lead piping is more likely to be present.