Sen. Jo Comerford

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits new gas facilities or expansions within 5 miles of environmental justice neighborhoods, except when required for public safety. It mandates that Massachusetts gas companies submit detailed "just transition plans" by 2026, covering workforce training, retention, and pipeline retirement timelines through 2050 to align with net-zero emissions goals. These plans must address maintaining safe service while shifting to renewable energy alternatives and include measures for employee support during the transition. The requirements apply to all gas distribution companies operating in Massachusetts under Chapter 164.

By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 430) of Jacob R. Oliveira, Joanne M. Comerford, Vanna Howard, Michael D. Brady and other members of the General Court for legislation for a special commission to review and valuate the commonwealth’s current special education financing structure. Education.

Senate, December 11, 2025 -- The committee on Housing to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1008) of Joan B. Lovely, James K. Hawkins, James B. Eldridge, Jason M. Lewis and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to the Massachusetts rental voucher program, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2826).

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 990) of Paul R. Feeney for legislation relative to manufactured housing communities. Housing.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 991) of Paul R. Feeney for legislation to create a interagency supportive housing finance and strategy board to end and prevent homelessness. Housing.

Maddy summaryMassachusetts bill SD 1327 requires transportation agencies to align regional and statewide transportation plans with the state's emissions and vehicle miles traveled (VMT) reduction goals. It mandates that all transportation plans include 20-year emissions and VMT impact assessments, and that projects must incorporate localized "mitigation measures" (like transit expansions, active transportation infrastructure, or land-use changes) prioritized for communities directly affected by the project. The bill directly affects metropolitan planning organizations and state transportation agencies, requiring them to demonstrate compliance with existing emissions sublimits and VMT reduction targets set under Chapter 21N. These targets, established by the Secretary of Transportation, must be integrated into all transportation planning documents and public hearings.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands Massachusetts' Bottle Bill to include more beverage containers and streamline returns. It adds a "bag-drop program" allowing consumers to drop off containers at designated locations for refunds within 3 days, defines "beverage" (excluding infant formula and animal-milk products), and increases the minimum refund value from $0.05 to $0.10 per container. The bill creates a "Clean Environment Fund" to manage collected deposits, using funds for waste programs, redemption center infrastructure, and water system improvements - excluding incineration costs. It directly affects consumers returning containers, retailers collecting deposits, and state environmental programs.

Maddy summaryMassachusetts bill SD 1200 requires broadband providers to offer high-speed internet service to eligible low-income households at $15 per month. Eligibility includes households participating in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or federal housing assistance, or earning under 200% of the federal poverty level. The service must provide at least 100 Mbps download speed, and providers must report annually to the state telecom department on enrollment and compliance. Violations can be enforced through court actions by the Attorney General.

Maddy summaryHD 2201 requires the state's Uniform State Plumbing Code to include regulations allowing gender-neutral bathrooms in all buildings covered by the state building code. This applies to both new construction and renovations, mandating facilities with multiple separated fixtures (toilets, urinals, showers) and separate or grouped handwashing stations. The bill directly affects building owners, architects, and contractors who must comply with these plumbing code requirements for any public or commercial space.

By Ms. Comerford, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2119) of Joanne M. Comerford and Mindy Domb for legislation to provide for transparency and geographic equity in all state grant funding by updating a public, interactive dashboard with data on all grant awards. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.