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H 2271

An Act relative to non-criminal dispositions of municipal bylaws and acts of nature

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bill Galvin

Summary of H 2271: An Act relative to non-criminal dispositions of municipal bylaws and acts of nature Main Purpose and IntentThis bill seeks to establish a framework for municipal

Accompanied a study order, see H4776
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Bill Summary · H 2271

Summary of H 2271: An Act relative to non-criminal dispositions of municipal bylaws and acts of nature

Main Purpose and Intent

This bill seeks to establish a framework for municipalities to issue non-criminal dispositions, or tickets, for violations of local bylaws and ordinances. It also provides a process for municipalities to respond to and recover from natural disasters and other acts of nature that impact their communities.

Key Provisions

  • Authorizes municipalities to adopt non-criminal disposition procedures for enforcing local bylaws and ordinances, allowing them to issue tickets with fines rather than criminal charges
  • Establishes guidelines and requirements for the non-criminal disposition process, including who can issue tickets, the types of violations eligible, and appeal procedures
  • Permits municipalities to declare a state of emergency in response to natural disasters, extreme weather events, or other acts of nature that disrupt normal operations
  • Allows municipalities to temporarily waive or modify certain bylaws, permits, and other requirements to facilitate emergency response and recovery efforts
  • Creates a municipal disaster relief fund to provide financial assistance to cities and towns impacted by qualifying natural disasters

Affected Parties

  • Municipal governments, who would gain new tools for enforcing local laws and responding to emergencies
  • Residents and businesses subject to municipal bylaws, who could face non-criminal tickets rather than criminal charges for certain violations
  • State agencies that would provide guidance, oversight, and potential financial assistance to municipalities dealing with natural disasters

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • The bill was introduced in the state legislature on February 27, 2025 and is currently accompanied by a study order (see H4776)
  • If enacted, the non-criminal disposition and municipal emergency response provisions would take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law
  • The municipal disaster relief fund would be established with an initial appropriation of $50 million from the state budget

Overall, this legislation aims to give municipalities more flexible and efficient options for enforcing local laws and responding to natural disasters that disrupt their communities.

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

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