Bill > S667

This bill establishes a new process for developing projects in Designated Port Authorities (DPAs), which are specific waterfront areas with special zoning and development regulations. The legislation creates a special 7-member waterfront development oversight commission appointed by various government leaders, including the governor, legislative leaders, and the secretary of energy and environmental affairs. The commission will be composed of experts in environmental policy, public policy, municipal administration, or economic development, and will have the authority to review and approve development proposals that do not strictly comply with existing DPA regulations. Specifically, the bill allows the secretary or an appointee to comment on and approve development proposals that might not meet the exact requirements of current laws, but the commission must ensure that any approved project does not compromise environmental integrity. Before any approved project can move forward, it must be submitted to the state legislature's clerks and committee chairs, and must receive approval from the general court. This bill provides flexibility in DPA development while maintaining oversight to protect environmental standards.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S667