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H 4154

An Act relative to the town of Richmond Free Public Library

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Leigh Davis

Allows Richmond Free Public Library trustees to invest gifts in a separate interest-bearing account, earning interest and boosting donor trust and fundraising flexibility.

Enacted and laid before the Governor
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Bill Summary · H 4154

Summary of H.4154: An Act relative to the town of Richmond Free Public Library

Overview

H.4154, titled “An Act relative to the town of Richmond Free Public Library,” was introduced on May 22, 2025, and is described as enacted and laid before the Governor. The bill received local approval and is part of the 2025-2026 Massachusetts General Court. It is sponsored by Representative Leigh Davis (with Senator Paul W. Mark) and has been reported favorably by committee.

Purpose and intent

  • To authorize the Richmond Free Public Library to manage gifts and donations more flexibly by permitting investment of those funds in a separate, interest-bearing account.
  • The language establishes this authority notwithstanding any contrary general or special laws, effectively allowing a dedicated financial arrangement for library gifts.

Key provisions

  • Section 1: The board of trustees of the Richmond Free Public Library may invest present or future gifts and donations received by and for the library in a separate interest-bearing account. This is a broad authorization designed to segregate such funds from other municipal finances and to earn interest on them.
  • Section 2: The act takes effect upon passage, i.e., it becomes active immediately once enacted.

Who is affected

  • Primary: The Richmond Free Public Library and its board of trustees.
  • Secondary: Donors and supporters whose gifts/donations would be placed into a dedicated, interest-bearing account; the town of Richmond, in the sense of governance and oversight of library fundraising.

Procedural and timeline notes

  • Introduction: May 22, 2025.
  • Referred to: Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government (May 22, 2025).
  • Legislative progress: Passed committee with favorable report (July 16, 2025); subsequent readings, committee actions, and engrossment occurred through August–September 2025; Senate concurrence occurred May 27, 2025 (per record) with additional action in August–November 2025.
  • Enacted and laid before the Governor: November 26, 2025.
  • Status: Enacted by the Legislature and presented to the Governor for final action.

Additional context

  • Sponsorship: Leigh Davis (cosponsor) with Senator Paul W. Mark.
  • Related bill track: HD 4730 (replaces) is listed in association with this measure.
  • No other major substantive changes to library law are included beyond authorization to create and manage a separate interest-bearing account for gifts/donations.

Potential impacts

  • Financial flexibility: The library can place gifts into a dedicated account that accrues interest, potentially increasing the value of donor funds over time.
  • Donor trust and stewardship: Clearer expectations for how gifts are managed could enhance donor confidence and fundraising effectiveness.
  • Governance: The board of trustees gains additional management authority, though it remains subject to applicable laws and regulations governing municipal libraries.

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

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