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H 4501

An Act amending the town charter of the town of Plymouth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Michelle Badger and 1 co-sponsor

Bill H 4501 updates Plymouth's town charter, streamlining governance, enhancing voter participation, and improving transparency for local residents.

Signed by the Governor, Chapter 86 of the Acts of 2026
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Bill Summary · H 4501

Summary of Bill H 4501: An Act Amending the Town Charter of the Town of Plymouth

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 4501 aims to amend the town charter of Plymouth, Massachusetts, to update and clarify the governance structure and powers of the town. The amendments are intended to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of local government operations while ensuring compliance with state laws.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes significant changes to the town charter, which include:

Chapter 1: Powers of the Town

  • Incorporation: The Town of Plymouth is reaffirmed as a body politic and corporate.
  • Scope of Powers: The town is granted broad powers to operate under the constitution and laws of Massachusetts, emphasizing that specific powers listed in the charter do not limit the town's general powers.
  • Form of Government: The charter establishes a Representative Town Meeting-Select Board-Town Manager form of government.
  • Intergovernmental Relations: The town may collaborate with other municipalities and government entities for shared functions and financing.

Chapter 2: Legislative Branch - Representative Town Meeting

  • Composition and Membership: The Representative Town Meeting will consist of members elected for three-year overlapping terms, with each precinct electing nine members.
  • Eligibility: Any registered voter in the town can run for a position on the Town Meeting.
  • Meeting Notifications: The Town Clerk is responsible for notifying members of Town Meetings through various channels, including the town's website and social media.

Impact

The amendments will affect:
- Local Governance: The changes aim to streamline the governance process, making it more responsive to the needs of the community.
- Voter Engagement: By allowing any registered voter to serve on the Town Meeting, the bill encourages broader participation in local governance.
- Administrative Efficiency: The provisions for notification and communication are designed to improve transparency and accessibility for residents.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: September 11, 2025
  • Hearing Scheduled: September 23, 2025
  • Committee Actions: The bill was reported favorably by the committee on October 14, 2025, and was subsequently referred to the committee on House Steering, Policy, and Scheduling.
  • Recent Actions: On November 10, 2025, the rules were suspended, and the bill was read a second time and ordered to a third reading.

Conclusion

Bill H 4501 represents a significant update to the governance framework of the Town of Plymouth, aiming to enhance local government operations and encourage civic participation. As it progresses through the legislative process, it is positioned to potentially reshape how the town engages with its residents and manages its affairs.

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

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