An Act relative to sustaining natural and working lands

This bill establishes a new program called "Communities for a Sustainable Climate" to help Massachusetts towns protect and restore natural and working lands, such as forests and wetlands. To qualify for financial assistance, grants, and loans, municipalities must adopt specific policies like tree retention bylaws, natural resource zoning, and local fees on land development. The program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon storage by funding projects that design, construct, and implement strategies on these lands. Funding for the initiative will come from existing state trust funds and land management programs without requiring new appropriations. Additionally, the bill allows the state to offer tax credits and faster permitting for private projects that align with these environmental goals.