Bill > S65

This bill establishes new regulations for post-construction soil performance guidelines through the state agricultural department, requiring them to create comprehensive standards that address multiple soil health factors including soil depth, quality, carbon storage, storm water runoff, water quality, fertilizer reduction, and soil compaction. The regulations will be developed in collaboration with the University of Massachusetts Amherst Extension and must align with existing healthy soil practices. The bill introduces new definitions for "functional turf" (areas used for community and recreational purposes) and "utility turf" (areas serving ecological functions like erosion prevention and carbon sequestration), and creates an enforcement mechanism with graduated fines for violations: $250 for a first offense, $500 for a second offense, and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. The bill also provides an appeals process for those who receive fines, allowing individuals to challenge assessments through the division of administrative law appeals and potentially the superior court. By establishing these guidelines, the bill aims to improve soil health, environmental sustainability, and land management practices across various types of properties and land uses.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S65