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S 1951

An Act relative to embarkation fees

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr

Bill S 1951 establishes embarkation fees on Massachusetts port/airport departures to generate revenue and fund transportation infrastructure while potentially impacting travel costs and competitiveness.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 1951

Legislative bill overview

S 1951 proposes to establish or modify embarkation fees in Massachusetts, likely relating to passenger departure taxes or charges at ports or airports. The bill has progressed through committee review and received a favorable report, currently awaiting consideration in the Senate Ways and Means Committee. The specific fee structure and application remain unclear from the legislative history provided.

Why is this important

Embarkation fees directly affect travelers' out-of-pocket costs and can influence tourism and transportation competitiveness for Massachusetts ports and airports. Revenue generated could support port infrastructure, maritime services, or state coffers, but fees may also discourage travel or shift departures to competing jurisdictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on tourism: Higher departure fees may reduce visitor numbers or encourage travelers to use out-of-state ports, particularly affecting Cape Cod and island ferries
  • Equity concerns: Embarkation fees are regressive costs that disproportionately burden lower-income residents and frequent commuters relative to wealthier travelers
  • Revenue allocation: Disagreement over how collected fees should be spent (port maintenance, general revenue, or subsidies) and whether the amount justified by actual costs

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

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