Bill > H3495

This bill establishes a comprehensive approach to addressing heat-related challenges in Massachusetts, focusing on three key areas. First, it creates a low-income cooling assistance program administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development, which will provide financial help and energy-efficient cooling appliances to households with income at or below 60% of the state median income, with priority given to vulnerable populations like elderly, young children, and individuals with specific medical conditions. Second, the bill prevents gas and electric companies from shutting off utility services to residential customers during periods of extreme heat (defined as when the heat index is 95 degrees Fahrenheit or above), ensuring people can maintain cooling capabilities during dangerous temperature conditions. Third, the bill establishes an extreme heat task force composed of representatives from various state offices, public health institutions, and community organizations, which will develop criteria for heat emergencies, create strategic plans for integrating cooling solutions into existing programs, and suggest legislative and regulatory changes to improve heat-related response and coordination. Additionally, the bill mandates a study by the Department of Public Health to explore potential amendments to the state sanitary code regarding maximum temperature requirements in habitable spaces, with a report due by December 31, 2026.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3495