Bill > H3457

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law related to municipal light plants by making several technical amendments. Specifically, the bill updates Section 4A of Chapter 40 and Section 47B of Chapter 164 of the General Laws to expand the authority of municipal light boards. The changes allow municipal light plants to provide services and assistance to other utilities, including municipal, state, tribal, and publicly-owned utilities, both within and outside of Massachusetts. Under the new provisions, municipal light boards can help construct, install, alter, operate, maintain, or repair utility infrastructure such as poles, conduits, wires, cables, equipment, streetlights, and traffic signals. Additionally, these municipal light boards can sell, rent, or lease related merchandise and equipment. Employees providing these inter-utility services will retain their existing employment rights and privileges under state law, as if they were performing duties within their original employment scope. The bill makes minor technical edits to the existing statutory language, such as removing certain conjunctions and adding clarifying phrases about governance and service provision.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3457