---
title: "Halting a Ballot Initiative: Public Advocacy Services - Denterlein"
description: Learn how Denterlein was able to lay the groundwork for legislative change through effective communications strategy in this free case study.
---

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# CASE STUDY

# improving permitting laws, halting a ballot initiative

## Client

The Home Builders of Massachusetts

## Challenge

The Home Builders hoped to engage legislators in a positive discussion to improve permitting laws and halt a ballot initiative to repeal 40B (Massachusetts’ affordable housing law).

## Approach

Denterlein launched a national campaign that highlighted the Commonwealth’s highly restrictive local zoning laws. This included briefings, regular news releases, feature stories, and op-eds and letters to the editor emphasizing the impact of local regulations on housing production.

---

### Results

The 40B repeal effort was unsuccessful. And, by linking housing to economic development, the Home Builders were able to lay the groundwork for legislative change.

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