Bill > S1985

This bill seeks to further regulate the Energy Facilities Siting Board (EFSB) within the Department of Public Utilities. The key provisions are: 1) The EFSB is established as an independent entity, not under the supervision or control of the Department of Public Utilities. 2) The EFSB's mission is to provide a reliable energy supply for the Commonwealth with minimum impact on the environment, public health, and overall well-being of residents near the project, at the lowest possible cost. 3) The EFSB is required to review the environmental and public health impacts, need, and cost of transmission lines, natural gas pipelines, gas storage/manufacturing facilities, and oil facilities. For generating facilities, the EFSB will only review the environmental impacts, consistent with the Commonwealth's policy of allowing market forces to determine the need and cost. 4) The EFSB must solicit and consider testimony from the Department of Fish and Game on environmental stewardship concerns, and the Department of Public Health on public health concerns, as part of its review process.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S1985