Bill > H2268

This bill aims to implement a "Healthy and Green Public Schools Initiative" in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. The Department of Public Health and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will conduct an assessment to determine the extent to which school buildings in the Commonwealth provide a healthy, energy-efficient, and non-toxic environment for students. This assessment will look at factors like ventilation, air quality, water quality, lighting, temperature control, and access to green spaces. 2. The departments will develop standards for what constitutes a "healthy and green school" based on national standards and in consultation with an advisory board. 3. The departments will issue recommendations and a plan for all schools in the state to meet these healthy and green school standards by 2050, prioritizing schools with the greatest needs first. The plan will also include a funding strategy to cover the costs of renovations, repairs, and ongoing maintenance. 4. An advisory board will guide the initiative, consisting of representatives from various state agencies, educational organizations, and other stakeholder groups. 5. The initial assessment findings, standards, and recommendations must be published by June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2022, respectively. The goal of this bill is to ensure that all public schools in Massachusetts provide a safe, healthy, and environmentally-friendly learning environment for students.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H2268