HD 2598 creates pathways toward net-zero neighborhoods by defining "non-emitting thermal energy" (heating/cooling from sources without greenhouse gas emissions) and requiring gas companies to transition customers to such alternatives when safe, reliable, and affordable options are available. It mandates that new or renovated single- to three-family homes must install cooling systems capable of also providing heating, integrated into thermostat-controlled systems that operate for heat when cost-effective. These requirements will directly affect homeowners, gas utility companies, and builders by accelerating the shift from fossil fuel-based heating toward cleaner energy systems. The bill updates building codes by 2027 to incorporate these dual-function cooling/heating standards for residential properties.
By Mr. Barrett, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 188) of Michael J. Barrett for legislation to allow the board of state examiners of plumbers and gas fitters to vary regulations to advance reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.
HD 3369 establishes a Climate Change Adaptation Superfund to finance projects that help communities prepare for and recover from climate impacts. It requires fossil fuel companies and entities that extracted coal, oil, or natural gas in Massachusetts between 1995 and 2024 to pay into the fund based on their historical greenhouse gas emissions. Payments will support concrete adaptation projects like upgrading stormwater systems, retrofitting public buildings for energy efficiency, and protecting communities from extreme weather. The fund prioritizes environmental justice communities - neighborhoods with high poverty rates, minority populations, or limited English proficiency - to ensure equitable access to climate resilience efforts.
By Mr. Eldridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1973) of James B. Eldridge, James K. Hawkins and Jason M. Lewis for legislation relative to the imposition of an excise tax to provide for climate change adaptation infrastructure and affordable housing investments in the Commonwealth. Revenue.
H 4144 creates a new funding mechanism to support building decarbonization and energy efficiency programs across Massachusetts. It imposes a 2.5 mills per kilowatt-hour charge on electricity consumers (excluding municipal light plant users) and pools funds from cap-and-trade programs and other sources to finance these initiatives. The law requires 20% of these funds to target low-income residential buildings, with additional priority for moderate-income households, renters, and small businesses. Electric distribution companies and municipal energy groups must submit a statewide decarbonization plan every three years, detailing cost-effective programs to reduce fossil fuel use and energy costs while meeting greenhouse gas targets.
By Representative Domb of Amherst, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 119) of Mindy Domb for legislation to establish a separate fund to be known as the agriculture and fishery vulnerability preparedness grant fund to address the impact of climate change on farms and fisheries. Agriculture.
Senate, Novmber 19, 2025 -- The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 188) of Michael J. Barrett and Pavel M. Payano for legislation to allow the board of state examiners of plumbers and gas fitters to vary regulations to advance reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2705).
HD 3507 creates Massachusetts' "Buy Clean" program requiring contractors on large construction projects to provide environmental impact data for specific building materials. It applies to projects over 50,000 square feet, major renovations, or transportation infrastructure costing over $3 million, affecting contractors working on state-funded construction. Starting July 2027, contractors must submit environmental product declarations (showing carbon emissions) and health declarations for covered materials like concrete, steel, and engineered wood before project completion. The law includes provisions for small businesses to receive financial assistance to offset costs of creating required environmental reports. The program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from construction materials by making environmental data mandatory for state procurement.
By Mr. Eldridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1973) of James B. Eldridge, James K. Hawkins and Jason M. Lewis for legislation relative to the imposition of an excise tax to provide for climate change adaptation infrastructure and affordable housing investments in the Commonwealth. Revenue.
This bill creates a state program to help towns reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon storage on natural lands like forests, wetlands, and farms. Municipalities qualify for grants, loans, and technical assistance by adopting specific local policies - such as tree protection ordinances, land conservation zoning, or fees for development that harms natural areas. The program uses existing funding from the Global Warming Solutions Trust Fund to support these local climate actions. It directly affects participating towns that choose to implement qualifying land management strategies.
