Bill > S2310

This bill establishes a moratorium on issuing permits for hydraulic fracturing (commonly known as "fracking") within Massachusetts and mandates a comprehensive health impact assessment of natural gas extraction and transportation. Specifically, the bill requires a school of public health at the University of Massachusetts to conduct a detailed health impact assessment following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Before beginning the assessment, the school must create a scoping document that outlines the parameters of the study, which will be subject to public review and comment. The assessment will examine potential public health impacts related to natural gas extraction, transportation, and compression, with a focus on understanding how these activities might affect population health. The researchers must submit their comprehensive report, including any recommendations or draft legislation, to the state legislature's clerks and the joint committee on mental health and substance abuse by December 1, 2026. The bill aims to pause new natural gas fracking permits and gather scientific evidence about potential public health risks associated with natural gas infrastructure.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2310