Bill > H668

This bill aims to address the financial burden placed on local taxpayers for necessary upgrades to public drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater systems, which are often driven by state and federal environmental regulations. The bill defines "local mandate" as any new rule, regulation, or guidance from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA) that forces cities and towns to spend money or divert resources from existing services. Before any such EOEEA proposal can take effect, a comprehensive "regulatory impact statement" must be created, made public, and filed with the state. This statement will detail the problem the proposal addresses, the methods used, affected stakeholders, financial impacts on all parties including cities and towns, and the anticipated benefits. Additionally, the EOEEA must maintain a notification list and provide preliminary notice of proposals to interested stakeholders and relevant legislative committees at least thirty days before a public hearing, ensuring greater transparency and allowing for input before new costs are imposed.