S 459 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act relative to right of entry to prevent environmental violations

This bill amends Massachusetts environmental laws to allow state department personnel to enter private and public properties without a warrant to investigate potential violations or protect public safety. The key provision permits these inspections at reasonable times to examine records, equipment, and conditions related to regulated activities. However, the law requires officials to seek a warrant immediately if the property owner or controller requests one after being notified. This change aims to streamline enforcement efforts while still providing a mechanism for property owners to challenge warrantless entries in court.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Apr 2024
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Apr 16, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
7
Key actions
2
Committee
1
Apr 8, 2024
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Environment and Natural Resources
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors