Bill > S419

This bill aims to protect the natural resources of the Commonwealth by establishing the Public Lands Preservation Act. The key provisions of the bill include: 1. Requiring public owners making a disposition or change in use of land protected under Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution (Article 97 land) to acquire or provide replacement land of equal or greater area, natural resource value, and property interest. 2. Establishing a notification process for public owners to inform the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs about proposed dispositions or changes in use of Article 97 land, and a review process for the Secretary to provide recommendations to the legislature on such proposals. 3. Providing the Secretary the authority to grant waivers from the replacement land requirement in certain circumstances, such as when the disposition or change in use involves a temporary use or a small land area. 4. Outlining the approval process for municipalities, state agencies, and other public owners when proposing dispositions or changes in use of Article 97 land, including public hearings and votes. 5. Requiring the Secretary to annually report on the protection, disposition, and changes in use of Article 97 land in the Commonwealth. 6. Specifying the requirements for replacement land when Article 97 land is taken by eminent domain. Overall, the bill aims to prevent a net loss of Article 97 land in the Commonwealth and ensure that any dispositions or changes in use are reviewed and approved through a transparent process.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S419