Bill > S623

This bill updates the legal framework for the Middlesex Fells Reservation Fund, a special revenue fund administered by the Commissioner of Conservation and Recreation. The bill establishes a new non-budgeted fund that can receive money from multiple sources, including legislative appropriations, public and private gifts, grants, donations, fees from permits and licenses related to the Middlesex Fells Reservation, and any interest earned on these funds. The commissioner is required to consult with stakeholders like Friends of the Middlesex Fells Reservation, Inc. and neighboring municipalities when managing the fund. The money in the fund can be spent without additional legislative approval to support recreational, educational, and conservation efforts, such as constructing and maintaining facilities and infrastructure within the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Importantly, any unspent money at the end of a fiscal year will remain available for future use and will not be returned to the General Fund, with a specific provision ensuring that no expenditures can create a deficit in the fund.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S623