On January 14, Governor Baker vetoed a major climate bill (S.2995) that had been overwhelmingly passed by both the Massachusetts House and Senate to overhaul the Commonwealth’s climate law.
The bill (S.2995) included:
- a new (optional) net-zero stretch code for municipalities
- more ambitious state greenhouse gas emissions limits
- the state’s first-ever definition of environmental justice
- a series of natural gas safety measures
- an upgraded appliance efficiency standard
- 43% increase in offshore wind authorizations
Fortunately, Speaker of the House Mariano and Senate President Spilka have pledged to refile the climate bill, which (if passed) would allow them to override another veto from the Governor. Several legislators and thousands of citizens are still determined to get this bill into law and we expect a better outcome next time.
Thank you to Green Newton friends who responded to action alerts to write and call the Governor. We will reach out to you again if action will be needed to move this bill past the finish line and into law.
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