WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 5290

An Act establishing a review process of guidelines for managing recreational use of beaches to protect piping plovers, terns, and their habitats in Massachusetts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Sweezey

Requires Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to conduct a biennial review of beach-use guidelines protecting piping plovers and terns, with local input and two public hearings.

Referred to the committee on House Rules
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 5290

Summary of House Bill HD 5290

Overview

HD 5290 is an act to establish a formal, biennial review process for the Massachusetts Guidelines for Managing Recreational Use of Beaches to Protect Piping Plovers, Terns, and Their Habitats. Introduced on November 3, 2025, the bill is currently referred to the House Rules Committee. It would be administered by the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, through the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.

Purpose and intent

  • Ensure that the state’s guidelines for recreational use of beaches near piping plover and tern habitats are regularly reviewed and updated.
  • Incorporate input from local authorities and the public to improve habitat protection while addressing beach recreation.

Key provisions

  • Section 1 – Biennial review requirement

    • The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (within the Department of Fish and Game) must conduct a review of the guidelines at least once every two years.

  • Section 2 – Stakeholder consultation

    • During each review, the division must actively consult with all applicable municipal or regional beach managers responsible for oversight and enforcement of the guidelines.

  • Section 3 – Public participation

    • The division must hold at least two public hearings during each review period to solicit public comment.
    • Notice for each hearing must be posted at least 14 days in advance.
    • Hearings must be held within an applicable community.
    • No single community may host hearings in two consecutive review periods.

Who is affected

  • State entities: Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.
  • Local governments: Municipalities and regional beach managers responsible for enforcing the guidelines.
  • Public: Beachgoers and stakeholders with an interest in piping plover and tern habitats and beach recreation.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Frequency: Reviews occur at least every two years.
  • Engagement: Mandatory consultation with local beach managers.
  • Public process: At least two hearings per review period, with 14 days’ notice; hearings hosted in diverse communities (not repeated in the same community across consecutive periods).

Fiscal and implementation notes

  • The text does not specify funding or appropriation; it focuses on process, consultation, and public involvement.
  • Implementation would require scheduling reviews, coordinating with municipalities, and administering public hearings.

Legislative status

  • Introduced: November 3, 2025
  • Filed as House Docket No. 5290
  • Referred to the Committee on House Rules

This bill aims to codify a transparent, regular review cycle for guidelines that balance beach recreation with the protection of piping plovers, terns, and their habitats, leveraging local expertise and public input.

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

Sign in to ask a question.