An Act relative to municipal authority in public rights of way
This bill grants Massachusetts municipalities greater authority over utility poles and wires in public rights of way. It requires utility companies to share data via the NJUNS system, mandates new poles comply with accessibility standards (ADA and Massachusetts rules), and sets a 90-day deadline for removing outdated poles or attachments. Municipalities can charge fees for delays in removal or for costs incurred due to late removals, and they may impose fees, fines, or taxes on utility companies operating in public spaces. The bill also allows municipalities to purchase utility poles from investor-owned utilities at depreciated value.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Feb 2025
Senate Passage
Feb 2025
Governor
Introduced Feb 27, 2025
Last action Apr 6, 2026
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
6
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 27, 2025
Senate · Passed
Senate concurred
Feb 27, 2025
House · Referred to committee
Referred to the committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor
Sponsors
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