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H 4109

An Act relocating certain harbor lines in New Bedford Harbor

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tony Cabral and 1 co-sponsor

Bill H 4109 updates New Bedford Harbor's boundaries, improving management for local agencies and users, while supporting environmental assessments and conservation efforts.

Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Bill Summary · H 4109

Summary of Bill H 4109: An Act Relocating Certain Harbor Lines in New Bedford Harbor

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 4109 aims to amend existing legislation regarding the harbor lines in New Bedford Harbor. The primary intent of the bill is to update the geographical boundaries of these harbor lines to reflect current needs and conditions, thereby facilitating better management and use of the harbor area.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment of Harbor Lines: The bill proposes to replace the third paragraph of Section 1 of Chapter 80 of the Acts of 1929, as previously amended, with a new paragraph that specifies the new coordinates and bearings for the harbor lines.
  • Detailed Coordinates: The new harbor lines will be defined by a series of precise latitude and longitude points, along with true bearings, which will provide clarity on the exact locations of the harbor boundaries.
  • Geographical Impact: The bill outlines a series of points (L, M, N, O, P1, Q1, R1, S, T1, U1, V1A) that define the new harbor lines, ensuring that the updated boundaries are accurately documented.

Affected Parties

  • Local Government and Agencies: The City of New Bedford and its associated agencies will be directly impacted as they manage the harbor and its resources.
  • Commercial and Recreational Users: Businesses and individuals who utilize the harbor for commercial shipping, fishing, recreation, and tourism may see changes in regulations or opportunities as a result of the new harbor lines.
  • Environmental Stakeholders: Organizations focused on environmental protection and natural resource management may also be affected, as the relocation of harbor lines can influence ecological assessments and conservation efforts.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: May 12, 2025
  • Committee Review: The bill was referred to the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources and underwent a favorable report.
  • Public Hearing: A hearing was scheduled for July 1, 2025.
  • Legislative Actions:
    • September 25, 2025: Reported favorably by committee.
    • September 29, 2025: Read second and ordered to a third reading; rules were suspended for expedited consideration.
    • November 10, 2025: Read third and passed to be engrossed.

Conclusion

Bill H 4109 represents a significant step in updating the harbor lines in New Bedford Harbor, which is essential for effective harbor management and usage. By establishing clear and precise boundaries, the bill aims to enhance the operational framework for various stakeholders involved in the harbor's activities.

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

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