Bill > H3473

This bill amends Section 69H of Chapter 164 of the Massachusetts General Laws to modify the responsibilities and scope of the Energy Facilities Siting Board (EFSB). The revised law establishes the EFSB within the state department, but independent of its direct supervision, with a mandate to ensure a reliable energy supply for Massachusetts while minimizing environmental, public health, and residential impact at the lowest possible cost. Specifically, the board is now required to review environmental and public health impacts for transmission lines, natural gas pipelines, gas manufacturing and storage facilities, and oil facilities. For generating facilities, the board will focus solely on environmental impacts, aligning with the state's approach of letting market forces determine facility needs and costs. The bill also introduces new requirements for the board to actively seek testimony from the Department of Fish and Game when environmental stewardship concerns arise and from the Department of Public Health when public health concerns are present. These reviews will be conducted according to existing protocols outlined in sections 69J1/4 and 69J of the law, ensuring a comprehensive and systematic evaluation of proposed energy infrastructure projects.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3473