H 896 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act relative to Long and Moon Islands in Boston Harbor

This bill establishes Long Island and Moon Island in Boston Harbor as protected reservation lands for public use and conservation. It directs the state to acquire both islands by June 30, 2027, and create the "Long Island Reservation" and "Moon Island Reservation" to protect coastal habitats (including wetlands and shellfish habitats), preserve open space, and provide accessible public park access. The reservations will be managed as state park land under Chapter 92 of the General Laws, with specific protections for coastal ecosystems. The bill does not alter existing recreational leases on the islands but declares them permanent reservation lands for conservation and public enjoyment.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Feb 2025
Senate Passage
Feb 2025
Governor
Introduced Feb 27, 2025 Last action Feb 26, 2026
Floor votes

How they voted

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

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 27, 2025
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 27, 2025
Committee
Referred to the committee on Environment and Natural Resources
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Bruce Ayers
Bruce Ayers
DDemocratic
MA
1st Norfolk