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S 2920

An Act relative to firefighting water supplies and a state cistern program

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Moore

Massachusetts establishes a state cistern program to bolster firefighting water supplies and emergency drought preparedness across municipalities through water storage infrastructure.

Committee recommended ought to pass and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 2920

Legislative bill overview

S 2920 establishes a state cistern program to improve firefighting water supplies across Massachusetts municipalities. The bill creates infrastructure and financial mechanisms to support the installation and maintenance of water storage systems that can be accessed during firefighting emergencies and drought conditions.

Why is this important

Inadequate water supply during fires can severely limit firefighting effectiveness and endanger lives and property. Many rural and suburban communities lack sufficient hydrant infrastructure or reliable water access, making supplemental cistern systems critical for emergency response capability and community resilience during water shortages.

Potential points of contention

  • Program funding and costs: Questions about whether state funding covers full installation and maintenance costs, or if municipalities must share expenses, potentially burdening smaller towns
  • Maintenance responsibility: Unclear who bears ongoing maintenance obligations and costs—state, municipalities, or private parties—and what happens if cisterns fall into disrepair
  • Land acquisition and placement: Determining where cisterns are located, who provides land, and potential conflicts with private property owners or environmental regulations
  • Equity and prioritization: How the program decides which communities receive cisterns first and whether it adequately serves underserved rural areas versus more affluent municipalities

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

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