Bill > S2241

This bill establishes a comprehensive program to promote zero-emission school buses in Massachusetts by creating financial incentives and infrastructure support. The Department of Energy Resources, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center, will develop a grant program to offset the cost difference between zero-emission school buses and traditional diesel buses, which includes potential funding for charging stations and related infrastructure. The program specifically targets municipalities and school districts with lower median household incomes or higher childhood asthma rates, prioritizing these communities for grant awards. The department is required to publish detailed annual information about the program, including grant amounts, bus specifications, and estimated greenhouse gas emissions reductions. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Operational Services Division establish a statewide contract to help municipalities and regional school districts more easily purchase or lease zero-emission school buses. The goal of this legislation is to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and provide more environmentally friendly transportation options for students, with a particular focus on supporting communities that may be most vulnerable to environmental health challenges.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2241