An Act to build resilient infrastructure to generate higher-ed transformation

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Bill H 4693 allocates $2.6 billion for improving public higher education infrastructure in Massachusetts, enhancing facilities, sustainability, and regional economic growth.

Read second, amended (as recommended by the committee on House Ways and Means)

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 4693 aims to address the urgent capital improvement needs of public higher education institutions in Massachusetts. It seeks to enhance educational facilities, support regional economic development, and promote sustainability through infrastructure modernization and decarbonization efforts. The bill is classified as an emergency law, indicating its immediate necessity for public convenience.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several significant funding allocations for various capital improvement projects, including:

Deferred Maintenance and Modernization:

Funding: $1,250,000,000 for state universities and community colleges.
Use: To cover costs associated with deferred maintenance, modernization, and major capital projects, including planning, repairs, and construction.

University of Massachusetts Projects:

Funding: $1,250,000,000 specifically for the University of Massachusetts.
Use: Similar to the above, focusing on maintenance and capital improvements consistent with campus master plans.

Housing and Mixed-Use Development:

Funding: $100,000,000 for redevelopment and adaptive reuse of campus facilities.
Use: To support housing and mixed-use developments on public higher education campuses.

Decarbonization Initiatives:

Funding: $80,000,000 for developing decarbonization plans and implementing energy efficiency projects.
Use: To electrify campus infrastructure and reduce fossil fuel dependency.

Laboratory Modernization:

Funding: Up to $10,000,000 for modernizing laboratories and supporting collaborations between community colleges and vocational technical schools.

Who Would Be Affected

The bill primarily impacts:
- Public Higher Education Institutions: State universities and community colleges in Massachusetts will receive funding for infrastructure improvements.
- Students and Faculty: Enhanced facilities will improve the educational environment and support academic missions.
- Local Communities: Economic development initiatives tied to educational improvements may benefit local economies.

Procedural Timeline

Introduced: October 30, 2025

Committee Actions:

The bill was reported favorably by the committee on Higher Education and subsequently referred to the committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures, and State Assets.
On November 18, 2025, the bill was read a second time, amended, and placed in the Orders of the Day for further consideration.

Current Status: As of November 18, 2025, the bill has been amended and is awaiting further legislative action.

Conclusion

Bill H 4693 represents a significant investment in the future of public higher education in Massachusetts, focusing on infrastructure resilience, sustainability, and economic development. Its passage could lead to substantial improvements in educational facilities and resources, benefiting students, faculty, and the broader community.

Bill