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HD 1576

An Act relative to embarkation fees

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kip Diggs

Massachusetts bill HD 1576 establishes embarkation fees on cruise ships and ferries departing state ports to generate revenue and regulate water-based transportation operations.

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Bill Summary · HD 1576

Legislative bill overview

HD 1576 proposes to establish or modify embarkation fees in Massachusetts, likely related to cruise ship or ferry operations departing from state ports. The bill would authorize the collection of fees from passengers or vessels engaged in water-based transportation services.

Why is this important

Embarkation fees can generate state revenue while potentially affecting the cost of cruise vacations and ferry travel for Massachusetts residents and visitors. The fees could influence economic activity at state ports and the competitiveness of Massachusetts ports compared to neighboring states.

Potential points of contention

  • Fee structure and burden: Whether fees fall on passengers, cruise lines, or both, and whether this creates disparate impacts on lower-income travelers
  • Economic competitiveness: Concerns that Massachusetts fees could drive cruise and ferry business to nearby ports in Rhode Island, Connecticut, or New York
  • Port industry impact: Questions about whether fees adequately support port infrastructure and services or if they're primarily revenue-raising measures

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

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