Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S2220

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

To modernize and enhance the distribution of Chapter 90 funds

Impact

If enacted, S2220 would significantly alter how municipalities receive financial support for maintaining and improving their roadways and bridges. By establishing a new formula that doubles the maximum allowable match from the Commonwealth based on local initiatives, it promotes increased investment in transportation infrastructure. Municipalities would receive allocations based on specific criteria related to the resurfacing of roads and maintenance of state-numbered routes, potentially leading to improved road conditions statewide.

Summary

Senate Bill S2220, titled 'An Act to modernize and enhance the distribution of Chapter 90 funds,' aims to reform the allocation of funds for municipal transportation projects in Massachusetts. The bill introduces changes to the existing Chapter 90 framework, which governs the distribution of state funds to municipalities for infrastructure development. The proposed amendments seek to establish a more equitable funding mechanism that considers both property values and personal income across municipalities, ensuring that allocations reflect the financial capacities of different communities.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the bill could provoke discussions around equity in funding for less affluent communities versus those with more robust financial bases. Some lawmakers may argue that the new formula could disproportionately favor wealthier towns at the expense of those struggling economically. Moreover, stakeholders in the transportation sector may have different opinions on the effectiveness of changing the funding distribution model, leading to varied perspectives on the outcomes of the proposed legislation.

Companion Bills

MA S2794

Replaced by Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Transportation to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to road financing.

Previously Filed As

MA H3361

To modernize and enhance the distribution of Chapter 90 funds

MA H3717

To modernize and enhance the distribution of Chapter 90 funds

MA S2437

To modernize and enhance the distribution of Chapter 90 funds

MA S2489

Relative to modernizing Chapter 115

MA H3409

Promoting equitable distribution of Chapter 90 funds

MA H3647

Promoting equitable distribution of Chapter 90 funds

MA S2315

To modernize chapter 115

MA H4152

Relative to modernizing Chapter 115

MA S207

Modernizing the Massachusetts alcohol laws

MA S34

To modernize funding for community media programming

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.