Bill > H3486

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law regarding municipal light plants (publicly owned electric utilities) to clarify and expand their ability to provide emergency mutual aid. Specifically, the bill allows municipal lighting plants to sell, rent, or lease equipment and goods related to emergency assistance to other municipalities during crisis situations. The legislation also ensures that employees of a municipal lighting plant who are providing emergency mutual aid will be covered by the state's worker's compensation and retirement system (Chapter 32), and will have the same rights and protections as if they were performing their regular job duties. Additionally, the bill broadens language to explicitly include utility employees when discussing provisions related to emergency mutual aid. These changes are designed to facilitate and support inter-municipal cooperation during emergency situations, providing legal clarity and protection for municipal light plant workers who assist other communities in times of need.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3486