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H 2471

An Act to reduce temperature related illness in the Commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Kushmerek

Establishes mandatory cooling centers during heat events to provide free, accessible cooling for residents, with local funding and state support as needed.

Accompanied a study order, see H5234
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Bill Summary · H 2471

Summary of H.2471: An Act to reduce temperature related illness in the Commonwealth

Overview

H.2471 amends Chapter 111 of the General Laws by adding a new Section 245 to establish formal periods of excessive heat and mandatory cooling measures across Massachusetts. The bill aims to reduce temperature-related illness by ensuring access to cooling centers during heat events. It was introduced on February 27, 2025, referred to the Public Health committee, with a Senate concurrence noted. The hearing for the bill has been scheduled (and rescheduled) with the latest update for September 10, 2025.

Key provisions

  • Definition of periods of excessive heat: A period of time greater than three hours during which the temperature exceeds 90°F and/or a heat index greater than 95°F, as determined by the National Weather Service.

  • Cooling measures and cooling centers:

    • Cooling centers can be:
    • Air-conditioned publicly accessible buildings with a capacity of at least 50 individuals (per the state building code, 780 CMR), and/or
    • A dedicated cooling tent with an internal temperature below 75°F and capacity greater than 50 persons (measured with natural body posture), established and maintained by the city/town or the Commonwealth.
    • Access to cooling centers must be provided free of charge to residents of the municipality.
    • Centers must open no later than one hour after the predicted start of the excessive heat period and close no earlier than one hour after the period ends or when ambient temperature drops below 80°F (per National Weather Service data), whichever occurs first.

  • Implementation and ownership:

    • The Commonwealth may repurpose state-owned facilities to establish cooling centers in municipalities that lack them.
    • Municipalities are primarily responsible for funding and maintaining cooling centers, except where facilities are state-maintained.

  • Accessibility and exemptions:

    • Access to cooling centers shall not require proof of residency.
    • Municipalities for whom construction or operation would pose an undue burden may apply to the Department of Public Health (DPH) for an exemption.

Affected entities and beneficiaries

  • Municipal governments (cities and towns) are primary implementers and funders.
  • Residents of Massachusetts, especially vulnerable populations (elderly, unhoused individuals, and those without access to cooling at home) gain access to free, publicly accessible cooling options.
  • State agencies (including the Department of Public Health) oversee exemptions and may repurpose state facilities.

Timeline and procedural notes

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Referred to: Public Health
  • Legislative actions show a hearing initially set for September 10, 2025 (schedule updated; include time changes in B-2 and virtual format)
  • Related bill: HD 3382 (replaces)

Potential impact

  • Establishes a statewide framework for mitigating heat-related illness through publicly funded cooling centers.
  • Shifts operational responsibilities to municipalities, with state support for exemptions and repurposing facilities.
  • Sets clear timing and capacity criteria to ensure timely access during heat events.

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

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