The Massachusetts Legislature approved a tax on short-term rentals in July 2018 only to have Governor Charlie Baker amend the bill. The amendments proved only a temporary setback.

"Gov. Charlie Baker signed a bill on Friday that will tax and regulate short-term room rentals like those rented through Airbnb," reports Shira Schoenberg.
The legislation finally reached the finish line after moving in fits and starts throughout the year.
"The new law will apply the 5.7 percent hotel room tax to short term rentals, with an exemption for those who rent out their rooms for 14 days or less. Cities and towns can choose to add an additional 6 percent local excise tax (6.5 percent in Boston) and a 3 percent community impact fee, with an additional 2.75 percent fee levied in Cape Cod," according to Schoenberg.
FULL STORY: Gov. Charlie Baker signs bill taxing and regulating Airbnb in Massachusetts

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