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HD 3201

An Act relative to the sewer rate relief fund

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dave Robertson

Mandates minimum funding: at least $4,000,000 to the Sewer Rate Relief Fund from the General Fund, with at least $400,000 for Tewksbury sewer relief, effective immediately.

Senate concurred
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Bill Summary · HD 3201

Summary: HD 3201 — An Act relative to the sewer rate relief fund

Overview

HD 3201, titled “An Act relative to the sewer rate relief fund,” seeks to designate and allocate specific funds from the General Fund to the Sewer Rate Relief Fund, with a designated minimum allocation to the town of Tewksbury for sewer relief purposes. The bill is a proposed measure introduced in early 2025 and has progressed to Senate concurrence.

  • Bill number: House Docket No. 3201
  • Title: An Act relative to the sewer rate relief fund
  • Status: Senate concurred
  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Classification: Proposed bill
  • Primary sponsor: Representative David Allen Robertson (Tewksbury)
  • Related action: Referred to the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources; similar matter previously filed (2023–2024 session)

Purpose and intent

The bill is intended to ensure a substantial, ongoing infusion of funds into the Sewer Rate Relief Fund from the General Fund, with a specific minimum allocation to support sewer relief efforts in the town of Tewksbury. The underlying goal is to provide financial support to reduce sewer rates for residents and businesses, aligning with a broader state program to relieve sewer-related affordability pressures.

Key provisions

  • Amends Section 2Z of Chapter 29 of the General Laws (as appears in the 2016 Official Edition).
  • Mandatory allocations:
    • No less than $4,000,000 from the General Fund shall be allocated to the Sewer Rate Relief Fund.
    • No less than $400,000 of that appropriation shall be allocated to the Town of Tewksbury for sewer relief purposes.
  • Effective date: The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.

Fiscal impact and funding details

  • Total minimum allocation to Sewer Rate Relief Fund: $4,000,000.
  • Prescribed minimum allocation to Tewksbury: $400,000.
  • Source: General Fund (as part of annual or special appropriations, subject to the bill’s enactment).
  • The bill codifies these minimums, ensuring persistent funding for sewer rate relief and targeted aid to Tewksbury.

Affected parties and scope

  • State level: Commonwealth of Massachusetts funding streams via the General Fund.
  • Local government: Town of Tewksbury (explicit minimum of $400,000 for sewer relief).
  • Sewer ratepayers: Residents and businesses subject to sewer charges who stand to benefit from relief funding.

Procedural and timeline notes

  • Introduction and filing: Filed January 16, 2025; House No. 1030 (Rep. Robertson).
  • Legislative actions:
    • February 27, 2025: Referred to the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources.
    • February 27, 2025: Senate concurred (status indicates agreement between House and Senate on the measure’s language).
  • The bill’s designation as a "proposed bill" and its concurrent status suggest ongoing legislative action, with immediate effect upon enactment.

Considerations

  • The bill enshrines minimum funding levels; any changes would require another act to adjust the specified amounts.
  • If enacted, the Sewer Rate Relief Fund allocations would be binding minimums, shaping annual budgeting and sewer relief programs.
  • The specific designation for Tewksbury indicates targeted relief alongside broad state-level support.

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

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