Bill > S2354

This bill establishes a new Regional Equity Roadway Board to develop and implement a comprehensive, regionally-equitable roadway pricing policy for Massachusetts, with a focus on the Greater Boston metropolitan area. The nine-member board will include appointees with expertise in transportation planning, tolling systems, traffic congestion, municipal representation, and advocacy for low-income communities, along with the Secretary of Transportation or a designee. The board's responsibilities include analyzing roadway pricing issues, proposing toll locations, advising the Massachusetts Department of Transportation on pricing scenarios, estimating operational costs and revenues, forecasting traffic impacts, conducting social equity analyses, and assessing potential vehicular emissions reductions. The board is required to file an annual report by December 15 with legislative recommendations, with a specific emphasis on addressing social equity concerns for communities currently underserved by the transportation system. The board will have the authority to implement its road pricing plan beginning January 1, 2027, with the goal of providing financial support for traffic congestion relief and public transit initiatives.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2354