Bill > H1003

This bill establishes a comprehensive Drought Management Task Force within the state government to improve Massachusetts' ability to respond to and manage drought conditions. The task force will consist of representatives from various state agencies and organizations, including emergency management, agriculture, conservation, environmental protection, public health, and water resources, with two co-chairs who will coordinate the group's efforts. The task force will meet at least monthly during drought conditions and will be responsible for collecting technical information, facilitating communication among agencies and the public, and providing recommendations to state leadership about drought levels and appropriate responses. The bill requires the task force to develop and periodically update a statewide drought management plan every 5-10 years, which must be approved by the water resources commission. The task force may also create drought region maps aligned with watershed boundaries. The bill grants the secretary of the relevant agency the authority to order water conservation measures, such as limiting nonessential outdoor water use, which cities and towns will be required to enforce. These measures aim to protect public health, safety, and the environment during drought conditions by ensuring a coordinated and proactive approach to water resource management.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1003