Bill > S2244

This bill establishes a comprehensive approach to addressing heat-related challenges caused by climate change through multiple strategies. First, it creates a low-income cooling assistance program administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development, which will help low-income households (those earning up to 60% of state median income) with cooling-related electricity bills and energy-efficient cooling appliances, with priority given to vulnerable populations like seniors, young children, and individuals with certain medical conditions. Second, the bill prohibits gas and electric companies from shutting off utility services to residential customers during extreme heat events, specifically when the heat index is forecasted to be 95 degrees Fahrenheit or above or when air quality is poor. Third, the bill mandates a study by the Department of Public Health to explore potential amendments to the state sanitary code that would establish maximum temperature requirements for habitable rooms. Finally, the bill establishes an Extreme Heat Task Force comprised of representatives from various state agencies, academic institutions, and advocacy organizations, tasked with developing heat emergency criteria, creating strategic plans for addressing extreme heat, and suggesting legislative and regulatory changes to improve heat and cooling coordination across different levels of government and organizations. The comprehensive nature of the bill aims to protect vulnerable populations and improve resilience against heat-related climate change impacts.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2244