By Mr. Cronin, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 328) of John J. Cronin, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., Joanne M. Comerford, Vanna Howard and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to full funding of regional school district transportation. Education.
This bill exempts municipalities from paying the state gas tax on fuel they purchase for official government use. It directly affects cities and towns that buy fuel for services like road maintenance, public works, or municipal vehicle operations. The key provision adds a new section to state tax law, stating that fuel sold to a municipality for municipal purposes is not subject to the excise tax. This changes the tax treatment for municipal fuel purchases but does not alter taxes for residents or businesses.
By Mr. Barrett, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1925) of Michael J. Barrett foe legislation to impose an in-state mileage-based road usage charge on the use of clean energy vehicles. Revenue.
By Mr. Velis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1784) of John C. Velis and Michael J. Finn for legislation to increase safety in highways work zones by implementing work zone speed cameras. Public Safety and Homeland Security.
HD 898 mandates a feasibility study to restore year-round commuter rail service between Cape Cod towns (Falmouth, Bourne, Barnstable, Yarmouth, and Sandwich) and Boston via the Cape Cod line. The study, to be completed within 9 months, will evaluate costs for infrastructure upgrades, environmental impacts, funding sources, and bridge replacement options, including the Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge. If the study finds feasibility, the MBTA must begin operating the service within 12 months of the bill's passage, with at least three weekday morning and afternoon peak trips. This bill directly affects Cape Cod residents by setting a timeline for improved transportation access and the MBTA by requiring implementation of the rail service.
This bill requires owners of new commercial buildings (with $1 million+ construction/rehab costs) to install physical barriers between parking areas and sidewalks or building fronts. These safety features - like bollards, walls, or planters - must prevent vehicles from entering pedestrian zones or hitting structures. It also creates a safety advisory group to develop best practices and allows insurers to offer discounts for compliant properties. The rules apply only to commercial developments permitted after July 1, 2022, and must comply with existing accessibility standards.
H 55 is a funding bill that allocates supplemental appropriations for Massachusetts' fiscal year 2025. It provides specific amounts to support transportation and education programs, including $67 million for MBTA low-income fare relief, $400 million for MBTA workforce/safety, and $32.5 million for high school career pathway initiatives. The bill also funds $75 million for career technical education facility upgrades, $100 million for early education workforce improvements, and $50 million to expand preschool access in high-need districts. All funds are supplemental to existing budgets and must be used for designated purposes with reporting requirements for oversight.
By Ms. Creem, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2241) of Cynthia Stone Creem for legislation to promote access to zero-emission school buses. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Mr. Crighton, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2251) of Brendan P. Crighton for legislation relative to a just transition to clean energy in transportation fuel. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Mr. Cronin, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2360) of John J. Cronin for legislation relative to the certification of inspection for new motor vehicles. Transportation.
