This bill requires Massachusetts regional transit authorities to transition their bus fleets to electric vehicles by 2035, with specific procurement targets: 40% of new buses must be electric by 2028, 60% by 2030, and 80% by 2032. Authorities must prioritize electric buses on routes serving environmental justice communities (as defined in state law) and conduct community outreach with residents, municipal officials, and advocates in these areas. The bill establishes a new state office within the Department of Transportation by 2026 to support planning, procurement, and worker retraining for the transition, while mandating annual reports on progress and reasons for any continued use of fossil fuel vehicles.
This bill modifies Massachusetts laws governing ride-hailing companies (like Uber and Lyft). It requires these companies to report monthly ride data by location and charge a 6.25% fee on most pre-arranged rides, except those booked through public transit or paratransit programs. Municipalities can now impose a $2.25 congestion fee per ride (funds directed to public transit, bike/pedestrian projects, and EV infrastructure), while prohibiting local governments from adding extra licensing or operational rules for these companies. The bill also mandates clear fare estimates showing price differences between shared and single-occupancy rides.
HD 3178 establishes a state-funded matching grant program (the "Equitable EV Facilities Matching Fund") to help cities and towns finance parking facility projects with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The bill requires eligible projects to reduce downtown surface parking, provide affordable EV charging in dense housing areas, support housing growth, and follow urban design standards. Municipalities receive reimbursement for project costs (ranging from 30% to 80% based on local median income) after completing work that meets the fund's standards. This program directly affects local governments seeking to modernize parking infrastructure while advancing EV access and downtown walkability.
By Mr. Barrett, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1925) of Michael J. Barrett foe legislation to impose an in-state mileage-based road usage charge on the use of clean energy vehicles. Revenue.
By Ms. Creem, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2241) of Cynthia Stone Creem for legislation to promote access to zero-emission school buses. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Mr. Cronin, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2362) of John J. Cronin, Vanna Howard, James B. Eldridge and James K. Hawkins for legislation to build future-forward parking structures to promote EV equity and walkable downtowns. Transportation.
By Representative Cabral of New Bedford, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3631) of Antonio F. D. Cabral and others for legislation to establish a program for the construction, reconstruction, and renovation of municipal parking facilities to provide electric vehicle charging stations. Transportation.
By Representative Howitt of Seekonk, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3700) of Steven S. Howitt relative to electric vehicle charging stations. Transportation.
This bill sets specific deadlines for electrifying the MBTA commuter rail system. It directly affects the MBTA and its operations by requiring the agency to meet defined timelines for transitioning from diesel to electric trains. The key mechanism is establishing legally binding deadlines for this infrastructure change, though the abstract does not specify exact dates or phases. The bill focuses on accelerating the electrification process for public transit service.
This bill requires Massachusetts public vehicle fleets (including school buses, municipal vehicles, and state agency fleets) to transition to 100% electric vehicles by specific deadlines. Light-duty public fleets must be 100% electric by 2035, with 50% by 2027 and 75% by 2030. School buses must be 100% electric by 2040, with 50% new purchases by 2030 and 100% by 2035. The state also mandates that all new Commonwealth vehicle purchases be 100% electric by 2030, with annual public reporting on progress.
