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HD 2388

An Act to eliminate combined sewer overflows in Massachusetts waterways

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 4 co-sponsors

HD 2388: An Act to Eliminate Combined Sewer Overflows in Massachusetts Waterways OverviewBill Number: HD 2388 Title: An Act to eliminate combined sewer overflows in Massachusetts

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Bill Summary · HD 2388

HD 2388: An Act to Eliminate Combined Sewer Overflows in Massachusetts Waterways

Overview

Bill Number: HD 2388
Title: An Act to eliminate combined sewer overflows in Massachusetts waterways
Status: Proposed bill
Introduced: November 29, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This proposed legislation aims to address the persistent issue of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) that have long plagued many of Massachusetts' waterways. CSOs occur when sewage and stormwater runoff overwhelm aging sewer systems, leading to the discharge of untreated waste into nearby rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. The bill's primary goal is to mandate the elimination of these CSO events, which pose significant public health and environmental risks.

Key Provisions

  • Requires all municipalities with combined sewer systems to develop and implement comprehensive plans to separate storm and sanitary sewer infrastructure within 10 years.
  • Establishes a $2 billion state grant program to provide financial assistance to cities and towns for sewer separation projects.
  • Imposes strict limits on the number and volume of allowable CSO events, with penalties for non-compliance.
  • Mandates the installation of real-time monitoring and reporting systems for CSO outfalls to improve transparency and accountability.
  • Directs the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to promulgate new regulations governing the design, construction, and operation of combined sewer systems.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Municipalities with combined sewer systems, which will be required to undertake costly infrastructure upgrades to separate storm and sanitary sewers.
  • Ratepayers in affected communities, who may face increased water and sewer fees to fund the necessary improvements.
  • Residents living near waterways impacted by CSOs, who will benefit from improved water quality and reduced public health risks.
  • Environmental groups and recreational users, who will see reduced pollution and improved ecosystem health in the state's rivers, lakes, and coastal areas.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HD 2388 was introduced in the Massachusetts House of Representatives on November 29, 2025 and has been referred to the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture for initial review. If passed by the committee, the bill will then proceed to the full House and Senate for consideration. Given the significant financial and logistical challenges involved, the 10-year implementation timeline may face scrutiny and potential amendments during the legislative process.

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

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