Bill > H764

This bill establishes a cranberry industry revitalization task force, an emergency law necessary for the immediate preservation of public health and convenience, to investigate solutions for preserving and strengthening the cranberry industry in Massachusetts. The task force will comprise representatives from the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association, Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc., an independent cranberry handler company, the University of Massachusetts Cranberry Station, the secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs, the commissioner of Agricultural Resources, an agricultural economist, the commissioner of Energy Resources, the commissioner of Environmental Protection, and members from both the House of Representatives and the Senate, with specific appointment procedures outlined for legislative members. This task force will jointly be chaired by the secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs and the commissioner of Agricultural Resources, or their designees, and will examine methods to promote innovation and revitalization within the cranberry farming community, including addressing increased fixed costs, exploring alternative and renewable energy uses for growers, and investigating the unique aspects of the Massachusetts cranberry industry. The task force is required to submit its findings and any proposed legislation to legislative clerks and relevant committees by October 1, 2015.