An Act protecting the viability of farms in the Commonwealth

This bill requires state and local agencies to evaluate whether new rules or regulations could negatively affect commercial farms in Massachusetts before they are finalized. State agencies must publish a written assessment of potential impacts and submit detailed findings to relevant legislative committees at least 45 days before the rule takes effect, while local governments must complete a specific form 90 days prior to enactment. If an assessment shows a proposed rule would cost a farm more than $500 annually or require over 20 extra hours of labor, the findings must be sent to the state board of agriculture for mitigation suggestions before the rule is issued. The law includes an exception for emergency health and safety measures that are set to expire within six months, ensuring that urgent protections for public safety are not delayed.