The Massachusetts State Senate recently adopted three energy bills,
S.2477,
S.2476 and
S. 2478. Among the 124 amendments offered to S.2477 was an amendment offered by Senators Lessor and Pacheco to require a home energy audit prior to the time of sale. The seller or agent acting on behalf of the seller would then be required to disclose to the buyer the energy assessment and energy performance label prior to the signing of a contract to purchase. The Greater Boston Real Estate Board and Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® opposed the amendment which was ultimately withdrawn. Similar legislation filed by Senator Eric Lesser,
S.1983 still remains before the Joint Committee on Telecommunications Utilities and Energy. The final outcome of the issue will not be known until the legislature adjourns at the end of July.