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H 4769

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

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Bill H 4769 invests $1.955 billion to modernize Massachusetts public higher education facilities, enhancing student resources and boosting regional economic growth.

Committee of conference appointed (Comerford-Rush-Dooner), in concurrence
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Bill Summary · H 4769

Summary of Bill H 4769: An Act to Build Resilient Infrastructure to Generate Higher-Ed Transformation

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 4769 aims to address the urgent capital improvement needs of public higher education institutions in Massachusetts. It seeks to enhance educational missions and promote regional economic development through significant investments in infrastructure. The bill is classified as an emergency law, indicating that its provisions are intended to take effect immediately to preserve public convenience.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several funding allocations for various capital improvement projects, totaling approximately $1.955 billion. The key provisions include:

  1. Deferred Maintenance and Modernization:

    • Funding: $1.25 billion
    • Purpose: To address deferred maintenance, modernization, decarbonization, and major capital projects at state universities and community colleges.

  2. Housing and Mixed-Use Development:

    • Funding: $100 million
    • Purpose: To support the redevelopment of campus facilities for housing and mixed-use development, in consultation with relevant state secretaries.

  3. Decarbonization and Energy Efficiency:

    • Funding: $80 million
    • Purpose: To develop decarbonization plans and implement energy efficiency projects across public higher education institutions.

  4. Laboratory Modernization and Student Support:

    • Funding: $120 million
    • Purpose: To modernize laboratories, support collaborations between community colleges and vocational schools, and enhance student health and wellness facilities.

  5. Campus Master Plans:

    • Funding: $30 million
    • Purpose: To develop comprehensive campus master plans for public higher education institutions.

  6. Revitalization of Specific Facilities:

    • Funding: $275 million
    • Purpose: Specifically allocated for the revitalization of the Huntington Tower Building at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design.

  7. General Higher Education Capital Projects:

    • Funding: Additional allocations for various projects, including a minimum of $5 million for Greenfield Community College and $2 million for Northern Essex Community College.

Affected Entities

The bill primarily impacts:
- Public higher education institutions in Massachusetts, including state universities and community colleges.
- Students and faculty at these institutions, who will benefit from improved facilities and resources.
- The broader Massachusetts community, which may experience economic development as a result of enhanced educational infrastructure.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: November 18, 2025
  • Current Status: The bill has been read and referred to the Senate Ways and Means Committee for further consideration.
  • Legislative Actions: The bill passed the House with a significant majority (148 YEAS to 5 NAYS) before being referred to the Senate.

Conclusion

Bill H 4769 represents a substantial investment in the future of public higher education in Massachusetts, aiming to modernize facilities, enhance educational opportunities, and support economic growth. The emergency designation underscores the urgency of these improvements to meet the needs of students and the community effectively.

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

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