As the July 31 deadline looms, Massachusetts lawmakers are scrambling to address a variety of pressing issues before the end of the legislative session. The State House is bustling with activity as negotiations on key bills intensify. These include a housing bond bill, economic development packages, and climate and energy proposals.
One major point of contention is the housing bond bill, with differences between the House and Senate versions on funding for water infrastructure and inclusionary zoning. Economic development packages have also sparked debate, particularly regarding incentives for the life sciences industry and additional policies like raising the age for juvenile court proceedings and allowing discounted drinks at happy hour.
In the realm of climate and energy, both chambers are working on bills to streamline permitting for clean energy projects and meet emission reduction goals. However, the Senate’s bill includes more expansive measures such as limiting gas pipelines and banning competitive electric suppliers from signing up new residential customers.
Negotiations on these crucial issues are ongoing behind closed doors, with stakeholders closely monitoring outcomes as the deadline nears. It remains to be seen which provisions will make it to the governor’s desk for approval, as lawmakers race against the clock to wrap up unfinished business before the clock strikes zero on July 31st.
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