Bill > S2739

This bill establishes a comprehensive approach to improving firefighting water supplies in Massachusetts by creating a new Fire Suppression Water Resource Fund and implementing a $2 fee on homeowner's insurance policies to finance the program. The bill introduces a $2 annual fee on each homeowner's insurance policy, which will be collected by insurers and deposited into a dedicated fund managed by the state fire marshal to purchase and install firefighting water cisterns in rural and urban interface regions with limited water access. Additionally, the bill creates a six-member task force composed of representatives from various state agencies and the Fire Chiefs' Association to conduct a comprehensive study on implementing a statewide cistern program. The task force will investigate the costs, optimal placement, and feasibility of water storage cisterns, seeking input from municipal representatives and using data-driven decision-making. By January 1, 2026, the task force is required to submit a detailed report to key state officials, including recommendations for priority installation areas, potential funding sources, and any necessary regulatory changes to facilitate the implementation of a statewide firefighting cistern strategy.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2739