Bill > H992

This bill establishes a comprehensive $1 billion water infrastructure improvement program for Massachusetts municipalities, focusing on maintaining and upgrading drinking water systems, replacing lead service lines, and improving waste and storm water infrastructure. The legislation creates a new Water Infrastructure Improvement Fund administered by the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust, which will allocate grant funding to local government units based on a formula that considers road miles (58.33%), population (20.83%), and employment (20.83%). To be eligible for grants, municipalities must develop an approved asset management plan, implement a full cost pricing program, and submit a grant application. The bill authorizes the state treasurer to issue up to $1 billion in general obligation bonds to fund these infrastructure improvements, with bonds to be repaid from the General Fund and with a maximum term of 30 years, not extending beyond June 30, 2053. The funding aims to help local governments address critical water infrastructure needs, particularly focusing on replacing potentially harmful lead service lines and maintaining essential water and waste management systems.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H992