HD 1302 raises the standard of proof in civil asset forfeiture cases from "probable cause" to "beyond a reasonable doubt" for the state to seize property, making it harder to forfeit assets. It creates a Special Public Attorney and Drug Rehabilitation Trust Fund, funded by forfeiture proceeds, to provide free legal defense for low-income individuals and support drug treatment, mental health services, and prevention programs. The bill also requires law enforcement to file court complaints within a set timeframe for property seizures of $3,000 or more and mandates a stay in civil forfeiture cases until related criminal cases are resolved. Additionally, it requires annual public reports detailing the fund's finances, expenditures, and outcomes from funded programs.
By Mr. Finegold, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2007) of Barry R. Finegold for legislation to promote the redevelopment of contaminated sites through tax credits. Revenue.
HD 2271 establishes a dedicated "Comprehensive and Inclusive Curriculum Trust Fund" managed by the education commissioner to support inclusive curriculum development in all public schools. The fund finances curriculum updates, teacher training, and grants for schools, prioritizing underserved communities and districts affected by bias incidents. It requires schools to teach accurate histories and contributions of underrepresented groups across subjects, including topics like slavery, immigration, and systemic discrimination. All funded initiatives must align with the curriculum standards, and the commissioner must report annually on fund usage to state legislators.
By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2000) of Paul R. Feeney for legislation to extend to qualifying entities sales tax exemptions on research and development. Revenue.
This bill establishes "green plus communities" for municipalities that meet specific climate action requirements, including creating a 5-year plan to cut building emissions by at least 20% and adopting stricter energy codes. It allocates $40 million for energy programs, with $10 million specifically for green plus communities, and sets annual carbon intensity limits for large buildings that must decrease over time. Building owners must comply with these limits or use approved alternatives like on-site renewable energy, with reduced fees for low-income buildings and small businesses. The bill also creates a retrofit funding program to support deep energy upgrades (excluding fossil fuel conversions) and requires standardized reporting to avoid duplicate data collection.
By Mr. Rush, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2073) of Michael F. Rush, Paul McMurtry and Steven George Xiarhos for legislation relative to veterans tax exemptions. Revenue.
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2074) of Bruce E. Tarr for legislation relative to the taxation of historic property. Revenue.
By Mr. Cyr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1434) of Julian Cyr for legislation to fund affordable housing and incentivize zoning reform by imposing a fee upon the transfer of real property interest in any real property situated within the city or town. Municipalities and Regional Government.
By Mr. O'Connor, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2063) of Patrick M. O'Connor for legislation relative to the taxation of above ground conduits, wires, and pipes used in the transportation of natural gas. Revenue.
By Mr. Montigny, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2042) of Mark C. Montigny for legislation relative to economic development tax credits. Revenue.
