Bill > H1004

This bill proposes significant updates to Massachusetts building codes and regulations to enhance climate resilience and safety. It establishes new definitions related to climate risks, including expanded flood maps and climate resilience, and modifies the state board of building regulations and standards to include experts in energy efficiency, advanced building technology, and climate adaptation. The bill creates a new "specialized stretch resilience code" that municipalities can opt into, which includes more stringent building requirements addressing future climate challenges such as flooding, extreme temperatures, and wind risks. The code will provide specific guidelines for building elevation, utility placement, structural integrity, and emergency preparedness, with requirements developed by an advisory committee of 17 experts from various relevant fields. Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a statewide climate resilience retrofit program that will offer technical and financial assistance to help existing buildings meet new climate resilience standards, with a particular focus on environmental justice communities and areas at high risk of flooding. The overall goal is to proactively adapt building standards to anticipated climate change impacts, improving infrastructure safety and reducing potential damage from extreme weather events.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1004