Press Release  The MCAD Issues Updated Procedural Regulations to Modernize Commission Processes and Improve Public Access

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD or Commission) today announced the publication of its updated procedural regulations, 804 CMR 1.00 (2026), following review by the Secretary of the Commonwealth in accordance with applicable law.

The new regulations were collaboratively revised and approved by the five-member board of MCAD Commissioners on May 29, 2026, following a comprehensive review and update process that included extensive public engagement, review of public comments, and multiple hybrid public hearings.

The Commission first released a draft of the proposed regulations for public comment in December 2025. Interested stakeholders were initially provided a 60-day comment period through January 30, 2026. In response to numerous requests from members of the public, advocacy organizations, employers, attorneys, and other stakeholders seeking additional time to review and provide feedback, the Commissioners voted to extend the public comment period through March 31, 2026.

Throughout the rulemaking process, the MCAD received and carefully considered public comments submitted to the Commission and heard verbal testimony during hybrid public hearings held at the Commission’s headquarters office in Boston. The final regulations reflect months of meticulous review and deliberation by the Commissioners and Commission staff.

“The publication of 804 CMR 1.00 today represents the culmination of an extensive and thoughtful process that prioritized transparency, public participation, and the Commission’s commitment to fair and efficient administration of the Commonwealth’s anti-discrimination laws,” said MCAD Chair Sunila Thomas George. “We are grateful to the many individuals, organizations, practitioners, and community members who took the time to share their expertise and perspectives throughout this process. Their input was invaluable in helping shape these updated regulations, and I am truly excited in how the Commission will grow to better serve the people of the Commonwealth with more explicit rules of procedure.”

The revised regulations are intended to provide greater clarity regarding the Commission's procedures, particularly in light of the launch of the MCAD Case Portal. The updates modernize and streamline agency processes, better serve parties appearing before the Commission, and enhance the Commission's ability to support staff in the effective investigation, adjudication, and prosecution of discrimination complaints. 

“Updating the Commission’s procedural regulations required a careful balancing of legal requirements, practical considerations, and the diverse viewpoints expressed by our partners and stakeholders,” said MCAD General Counsel Deirdre Hosler. “The final regulations reflect substantial effort by the Commissioners and staff to ensure that the MCAD’s procedures remain clear, accessible, and responsive to the public we serve.”

“The Investigations Division continues to enthusiastically implement improvements to our work, reinforced by the promulgation of the procedural regulations and the advancements they will facilitate for our work,” said MCAD Chief of Investigations Lila Roberts. “The updated processes emphasize the Commission’s priority objectives of increased investigatory efficiency and refined case management, two central goals that I look forward to seeing translate into the daily work of our dedicated investigative team.”

The Commission extends its appreciation to all those who participated in the promulgating process and contributed comments and testimony. The updated regulations, 804 CMR 1.00, are effective upon publication today, June 23, 2026, and are available now on the Commission’s website. 

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