Bill > S586

This bill establishes a Drought Management Task Force within the state office to enhance Massachusetts' ability to prepare for and respond to drought conditions. The task force will be composed of representatives from various state agencies and organizations, including emergency management, agricultural resources, conservation, environmental protection, public health, and water-related associations. Co-chaired by the secretary and the Massachusetts emergency management agency director, the task force will meet at least monthly during drought periods and be responsible for collecting technical information, facilitating communication among agencies and the public, and providing recommendations to state leadership about drought levels and appropriate responses. The task force will develop and periodically update a statewide drought management plan every 5-10 years, which must be approved by the water resources commission. The bill also grants the secretary authority to order water conservation measures, including limits on non-essential outdoor water use, based on drought severity in specific regions. Furthermore, cities and towns will be required to enforce water conservation restrictions issued by the secretary, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated approach to managing water resources during drought conditions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S586