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H 979

An Act relative to a marine special activity license program

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Patrick Kearney

Massachusetts bill H.979 creates a marine special activity licensing program to regulate water-based activities in coastal areas.

Hearing scheduled for 07/01/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1
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Bill Summary · H 979

Legislative bill overview

H.979 establishes a marine special activity license program in Massachusetts, creating a regulatory framework for specific water-based activities. The bill was introduced by Rep. Patrick Kearney and has been referred to the Environment and Natural Resources Committee for evaluation. A hearing is scheduled for July 1, 2025.

Why is this important

Marine licensing programs directly affect recreational and commercial water users, environmental protection, and coastal revenue generation. This bill could impact everyone from charter boat operators and water sports businesses to environmental conservation efforts in Massachusetts' coastal waters.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and definition ambiguity: The bill's specifics on which activities require licenses and exemption criteria remain unclear without the full text, potentially creating compliance confusion
  • Economic impact on small operators: New licensing requirements could increase costs for small marine businesses, fishing guides, or water sports entrepreneurs
  • Environmental vs. economic balance: Questions about whether licensing protects marine ecosystems or primarily serves as a revenue mechanism for the state

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

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