S 524 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act to consider the safety of artificial grass and turf surfaces

This bill proposes a 36-month ban on installing artificial grass and turf surfaces in Massachusetts, including on outdoor sports fields and parks. The legislation aims to pause these installations to allow the state's environmental agency to conduct a safety evaluation regarding potential contamination from PFAS chemicals and soil cover. During the moratorium, the state would also establish a commission to analyze athletic surface performance before any restrictions are lifted. The measure directly affects municipalities, sports organizations, and park districts that might otherwise install synthetic turf.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Feb 15, 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
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
House · Passed
House concurred
Feb 16, 2023
Senate · Referred to committee
Referred to the committee on Environment and Natural Resources
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Jason Lewis
Jason Lewis
DDemocratic
MA
Fifth Middlesex