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HD 4701

A report of the Water Resources Commission (under Section 8C of Chapter 21 of the General Laws and 313 CMR 4.11(3)) relative to the decision on an amendment to the conditions that the town of Plainville is subject to under a 2004 Interbasin Transfer Act decision

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Water Resources Commission must report on whether to amend Plainville's 2004 water transfer restrictions, potentially affecting regional water availability and ecosystem protection.

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Bill Summary · HD 4701

Legislative bill overview

This bill requests a report from Massachusetts' Water Resources Commission regarding a potential amendment to water transfer conditions imposed on the town of Plainville under a 2004 Interbasin Transfer Act (ITA) decision. The report will evaluate whether the existing restrictions on how Plainville can move water between river basins should be modified.

Why is this important

Interbasin transfer restrictions are critical environmental protections that prevent water depletion in source watersheds and preserve ecological balance. Any amendment could affect water availability for Plainville's residents and businesses, while also potentially impacting downstream communities and ecosystems that depend on current water allocations.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental vs. municipal interests: Loosening restrictions may benefit Plainville's growth but could harm the source basin's aquatic ecosystems and other communities that depend on that water
  • Precedent concerns: Amending a 20-year-old decision may encourage other municipalities to seek modifications, potentially destabilizing the ITA framework
  • Limited transparency in bill language: The bill only requests a report rather than directing a specific action, leaving unclear what changes Plainville actually seeks or what the Commission will recommend

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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