Bill > H3547

This bill aims to prevent the expansion of gas infrastructure near environmental justice neighborhoods and establish a comprehensive framework for a just transition to clean energy in Massachusetts. The legislation prohibits new gas generating facilities or expansions within 5 miles of environmental justice communities and requires gas companies to submit detailed transition plans that address workforce development, safety, and the state's net zero emissions goals. A new Just Transition Office will be created within the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development to help workers displaced by the shift away from fossil fuels find employment and training opportunities in clean energy industries. The bill establishes a Just Transition Advisory Committee composed of representatives from various energy sectors, labor unions, and environmental justice communities to develop a comprehensive plan for supporting workers during the energy transition. Gas and dual-fuel companies will be required to submit biennial workforce transition plans detailing projected attrition, training initiatives, and strategies for maintaining safe and reliable energy services. Additionally, the bill creates a training fund to support apprenticeship programs and provide grants to companies and organizations committed to retraining and rehiring workers from the traditional energy sector into clean energy roles, with a specific focus on supporting workers from environmental justice communities.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3547