Rep. Steven Howitt

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Massachusetts tax laws to protect agricultural land that is divided to create space for renewable energy projects. Specifically, it prevents owners from being charged roll-back taxes if they separate a portion of their farmland to generate renewable energy, such as solar or wind power. The measure aims to encourage the development of clean energy on farms by ensuring that the remaining agricultural land retains its favorable tax status. This change directly affects landowners in Massachusetts who wish to repurpose parts of their property for energy production without facing increased property taxes.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands a financial bonus for Massachusetts National Guard members returning from deployment to include all current active service members, not just those who have already completed their service. The key provision amends state law to provide this welcome home bonus to anyone called to active duty as part of the Massachusetts National Guard or a reserve unit based in the state. By changing the eligibility criteria, the legislation ensures that more service members receive the financial incentive upon their return.

Senate, March 14, 2024 --The committee on Financial Services to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 688) of Michael O. Moore, Steven S. Howitt, Jacob R. Oliveira and John F. Keenan for legislation to reform auto body labor rates, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2643).

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to lower the annual report fee for single-member limited liability companies from $500 to $250, while keeping the initial filing fee at $500. It directly affects business owners who operate one-person LLCs in the state by reducing their recurring administrative costs. The change is implemented by updating the specific fee schedule in Chapter 156C to distinguish between single-member and multi-member entities.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to lower the fee for registering a limited liability company in Massachusetts from $500 to $250. The change directly affects business owners and entrepreneurs who are forming new limited liability companies or renewing their certificates of organization. By amending Section 12 of Chapter 156C in the state laws, the legislation reduces the cost required to file these documents with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. This adjustment aims to decrease the financial burden on small businesses while maintaining the same regulatory process for company formation.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a special commission to study the costs and benefits of establishing a fund for nonprofit public events in Massachusetts. The commission will evaluate security and sustainability expenses for these events and recommend funding sources to help offset them. Its members include state officials, legislators, and representatives from tourism and municipal organizations. Within 120 days of passing, the group must submit its findings and any proposed legal changes to the state legislature.

By Representative Garry of Dracut, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2532) of Colleen M. Garry and others for legislation to include certain police officers disabled by cardiac disease in the heart law, so-called. Public Service.

By Representative Howitt of Seekonk, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3339) of Steven S. Howitt relative to license plate year of manufacture registration plates when used on antique automobiles. Transportation.

By Representative Howitt of Seekonk, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3347) of Steven S. Howitt relative to road building equipment classifications. Transportation.

By Representative Straus of Mattapoisett, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3435) of William M. Straus relative to the prevention of wrong-way driving. Transportation.