Bill > H3766

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law, specifically Section 150A of Chapter 111, which governs the siting of facilities that handle refuse, defined as solid or liquid waste materials excluding sewage and certain radioactive materials. The changes aim to strengthen the process for approving new or expanded refuse facilities by introducing new definitions, such as "Facility Density Zone" (an area with five or more existing facilities within four miles of a proposed site), and requiring more comprehensive environmental and public health reviews. Key provisions include mandating that local boards of health consider reports from the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Public Health when making site assignment decisions, requiring environmental impact reports for certain facilities, especially those in facility density zones or with significant capacity, and allowing neighboring municipalities within a half-mile radius of a proposed site to hold public hearings and provide input. The bill also updates the criteria for site suitability, emphasizing the impact on communities with existing concentrations of facilities and the needs of regional refuse disposal districts.