Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Department of Conservation and Recreation to conduct a formal review of its forest management practices every five years, starting with an assessment of current guidelines and operations. The review must evaluate how well existing practices protect natural resources, improve transparency and public participation, and address climate change impacts while considering opportunities to expand forest reserves and nature-based solutions. During the review period, the department cannot lease, sell, or remove timber from public forests except for emergencies, and must hold public hearings and accept written testimony from residents across the state. The department must submit its findings and recommendations to state legislative committees by June 30, 2027, including updated guidelines and proposed changes to improve forest management accountability.
Rep. Dan Sena
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a drought management task force within the state office to coordinate water supply efforts during dry periods. The task force will include representatives from multiple state agencies, water authorities, and public organizations, meeting monthly when drought conditions exist. It establishes a process for declaring drought levels, implementing water conservation measures like limiting outdoor water use, and enforcing these restrictions across cities and towns. The bill also requires the development of a statewide drought management plan that is reviewed and updated regularly with public input.
Maddy summaryThis bill restricts the use of anticoagulant rodenticides, which are blood-thinning pesticides, by limiting their registration and allowing emergency use only under strict conditions. It directly affects pest control professionals, public health officials, and property owners who manage rodent infestations. The key provisions ban the registration of these chemicals except for emergencies, require their use to be limited to 14 days in a single location, mandate non-chemical pest control methods, and require detailed reporting to the state department. Additionally, the bill establishes annual public reporting on where and how these pesticides were used during emergency situations. The restrictions will take effect on January 1, 2028.
By Representatives Meschino of Hull and Rogers of Cambridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1003) of Joan Meschino, David M. Rogers and others for legislation to establish a drought management task force. Environment and Natural Resources.
By Representative Hawkins of Attleboro, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 965) of James K. Hawkins and others relative to the use of rodenticides. Environment and Natural Resources.
By Representative Gentile of Sudbury, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 952) of Carmine Lawrence Gentile and others relative to watershed forest protection. Environment and Natural Resources.
By Representatives Connolly of Cambridge and Cabral of New Bedford, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1114) of Mike Connolly, Antonio F. D. Cabral and Samantha Montaño for legislation to establish a Massachusetts public bank. Financial Services.
By Representative Gentile of Sudbury, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 953) of Carmine Lawrence Gentile and others relative to forest protection. Environment and Natural Resources.
By Representative Sena of Acton, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1048) of Danillo A. Sena and others relative to increased protection of wildlife management areas. Environment and Natural Resources.
By Representative Puppolo of Springfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3405) of Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., and others for legislation to establish standard time as the permanent time of the Commonwealth. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.