Bill > H4036

This bill authorizes the town of Brookline to adopt zoning by-laws and regulations specifically aimed at addressing climate change, despite potential conflicts with existing state building codes, regulations, and other laws. The bill enables Brookline to create local regulations that can control building construction methods, design elements, and infrastructure with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing energy efficiency. Specifically, the bill allows the town to regulate construction materials, heating and cooling systems, solar energy systems, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, air emissions, and utility connections, even if such regulations might impact utility product sales or distribution. The bill prevents the attorney general from invalidating these zoning by-laws based on their potential interference with existing regulations. Additionally, the bill includes a severability clause that ensures if any part of the act is found invalid by a court, the rest of the act will remain in effect to the maximum extent possible. The legislation takes effect immediately upon passage, providing Brookline with immediate flexibility to implement green zoning strategies to combat climate change at the local level.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4036