Bill > S1151

This bill aims to increase transparency in municipal governments by amending Chapter 40, Section 50 of the Massachusetts state laws. The key provisions include: 1) Requiring all cities and towns to submit annual reports to the state library and state archives by the last day of August, rather than the previous deadline of May. This ensures the reports are available to the public and maintained for historical purposes. 2) Mandating that cities and towns compile annual reports for all budgetary departments, elected and appointed boards, and commissions, detailing their activities, measures, votes, and finances from the previous fiscal year. These reports must be made available to the public, including at the municipal clerk's office and local library. 3) Requiring municipalities to appropriate sufficient funds to print and electronically publish these annual reports, with coordination between the legislative and executive branches. 4) Establishing this act as an emergency measure, taking effect immediately and superseding any existing laws that do not require annual reporting from all local government entities. The overall purpose is to enhance transparency and accountability in municipal governments by ensuring comprehensive annual reporting to the state and the public.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S1151