Bill > H3354

This bill aims to eliminate gas leaks in Massachusetts by: 1. Allowing municipalities, state legislators, and ratepayers to participate in Department of Public Utilities proceedings regarding gas companies. 2. Defining critical root zones for trees and prohibiting damage to trees by gas leaks or construction. 3. Requiring gas companies to monitor, repair, and replace gas infrastructure, including locating and maintaining all valves. 4. Establishing stricter classification and repair timelines for different grades of gas leaks, with requirements for gas companies to notify local authorities. 5. Mandating annual audits of gas leak reporting and more detailed annual reporting on gas infrastructure and leaks. 6. Requiring gas companies to conduct winter surveillance and patrols to detect leaks caused by cold weather. 7. Empowering municipalities to regulate and file complaints against gas companies regarding their operations and infrastructure. Overall, the bill aims to improve the safety, monitoring, and repair of the gas distribution system in Massachusetts to reduce harmful gas leaks.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H3354