Signed by the Governor, Chapter 27 of the Acts of 2023
This bill authorizes the town of Rochester, Massachusetts, to issue a special license allowing businesses to sell alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption, such as takeout or delivery. The new licenses are strictly limited to establishments located within a specific area known as the Cranberry Highway Smart Growth Overlay District, which includes parcels along Route 28, Route 58, and Country Lane. To maintain control over the program, the town cannot transfer these licenses outside the designated district, and any new applicants must prove they have paid all applicable taxes and fees before receiving approval. The license is valid for up to three years and must be returned to the town if the business closes or fails to renew it.
Signed by the Governor, Chapter 24 of the Acts of 2023
Signed by the Governor, Chapter 26 of the Acts of 2023
By Representative Ryan of Boston, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Daniel J. Ryan for legislation to establish a sick leave bank for William Donahue, an employee of the Trial Court. The Judiciary.
This bill authorizes the town of Berlin, Massachusetts, to issue two new licenses for selling alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption. The legislation specifically designates these licenses for Berlin Liquors LLC and The Wine Cellar of Berlin, allowing them to operate without the restrictions that typically apply to on-premises drinking. Under the act, the town cannot transfer these licenses to different locations, but they may be renewed for new applicants at the same sites if all taxes and fees are paid. Additionally, if a business stops operating, the license must be returned to the town and can only be reissued within three years under the same conditions.
This bill changes the official name of the governing body in the town of Hanover from the "board of selectmen" to a "select board." The legislation achieves this by systematically replacing every instance of the old title with the new one throughout Massachusetts state law. This update affects only the town of Hanover and involves no changes to how the town is governed or the powers of its officials.
Signed by the Governor, Chapter 21 of the Acts of 2023
This bill extends the deadline for issuing alcoholic beverage licenses in the city of Woburn from three years after a previous law took effect to May 29, 2026. The change directly impacts the city's licensing process, giving officials more time to review and approve new liquor store applications. By amending a specific section of state law, the legislation delays the start of the licensing period for Woburn while leaving the rules for other cities unchanged.
Signed by the Governor, Chapter 13 of the Acts of 2023
This bill allows the City of Somerville to keep Charles J. Femino in his role as acting Chief of Police even after he officially retired and waived his pension benefits. Under the law, Femino can continue working in this position until a permanent chief is hired, he is removed by the mayor, or he turns 67, whichever happens first. The legislation also requires the mayor to have him checked by a doctor to ensure he is physically and mentally fit for the job and prevents further deductions from his pay after age 65.
This bill establishes specific deadlines for nomination papers and withdrawals for the 2023 Boston District City Council elections while leaving the dates for City Councilor At Large elections unchanged. It ensures that signatures collected under the old district map remain valid for the new districts, provided candidates meet residency requirements, and confirms that any election actions already taken by city officials are legally valid. Additionally, the legislation grants the Boston Elections Commission the authority to adjust preliminary election dates with state approval and requires public notice of any such changes.