Bill > H1013

This bill establishes a comprehensive municipal reforestation program within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs aimed at increasing urban tree canopy cover across Massachusetts. The legislation creates an Urban Forest Advisory Council composed of experts from various fields including forestry, ecology, climate resilience, and community development, who will provide technical guidance and develop science-based guidelines for tree planting. Participating municipalities will be required to develop detailed reforestation plans within three years, with priority given to areas with low tree canopy cover, environmental justice neighborhoods, and locations with high pollution levels. The program's goals include reducing carbon emissions, improving public health, enhancing climate resilience, and supporting biodiversity by planting native tree species. Municipalities will receive funding based on a formula that considers factors like road mileage, population, employment, and existing tree coverage. The bill also establishes a Municipal Reforestation Trust Fund to support the program, allowing municipalities to plant trees in public spaces and private properties, with tree maintenance costs shared between the municipality and property owners. An annual report will be submitted to track the program's progress, and the secretary of energy and environmental affairs will have the authority to develop necessary regulations to implement the initiative.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1013