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H 4621

An Act changing the board of selectmen in the town of Boylston to select board

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Robyn Kennedy and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts town of Boylston renames its "board of selectmen" to "select board" for gender-neutral, modern governance language.

Signed by the Governor, Chapter 66 of the Acts of 2026
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Bill Summary · H 4621

Legislative bill overview

H 4621 changes the official title of Boylston's governing body from "board of selectmen" to "select board." This is a nomenclature change that modernizes the town's governance structure language while maintaining the same operational functions and authority of the governing body.

Why is this important

Many Massachusetts municipalities have made similar title changes to use gender-neutral language that better reflects modern governance and inclusivity standards. The change signals alignment with evolving municipal naming conventions, though it has no impact on actual governmental powers, responsibilities, or operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive: Critics may view this as performative change that doesn't address underlying governance issues, while supporters see it as an important modernization step
  • Implementation costs: Any necessary updates to town documents, letterhead, signage, and systems carry minor administrative expenses
  • Precedent and consistency: Questions about whether other Massachusetts towns will follow suit and whether statewide standardization would be more efficient than town-by-town changes

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

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