Massachusetts AG opens comments on draft assisted-living regulations

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell has released draft regulations for assisted-living residences and opened a public comment period.

The draft rules are intended to protect residents from unfair and deceptive practices, including misrepresentation of services, improper fees and unlawful evictions. The attorney general’s office said the proposal is part of a broader effort to strengthen oversight of assisted-living facilities in the state.

A hybrid public hearing is scheduled for April 29, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., and written comments are due by May 1, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

The move follows earlier state work on assisted-living oversight. In February, Massachusetts posted notice of a public hearing on proposed changes to 651 CMR 12.00, including Basic Health Services certification requirements and additional safety provisions. The new draft appears to advance those discussions into a more formal consumer-protection proposal.

The office has not said when final regulations would be adopted, but the public comment period gives residents, providers and advocates a chance to weigh in before the rules are completed.

For assisted-living operators, the draft may signal tighter standards on disclosures, billing practices and resident protections. For residents and families, the proposal is meant to make services and fees clearer and reduce the risk of abuse or evictions that are not properly handled.