Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2297

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Relative to protecting municipalities from unfunded mandates

Impact

If implemented, the bill would amend Chapter 3 of the General Laws of Massachusetts to define unfunded mandates more clearly and guide the legislative process regarding municipal funding requirements. It mandates that joint committees must include a fiscal note before a bill is reported favorably if it places financial strain on cities or towns. This measure is expected to improve transparency in the budgeting process and could lead to more informed decision-making regarding the allocation of state funds to support municipal needs.

Summary

House Bill H2297 aims to protect municipalities in Massachusetts from unfunded mandates imposed by new legislation. The bill proposes that any proposed legislation that creates costs for municipal governments must include a fiscal note that details the financial implications of the mandate before it can be enacted. This is intended to ensure that municipalities are not burdened with unexpected costs that they must absorb without prior funding, thereby promoting fiscal responsibility within local governments.

Contention

The potential impact of H2297 has sparked discussions among state legislators regarding its implications for future legislation. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to preserve the financial integrity of local governments, helping them plan budgets with certainty. However, opponents may view it as an obstacle to enacting critical legislation that addresses pressing community needs, fearing that additional fiscal requirements could delay or derail essential reforms.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H2073

Relative to protecting municipalities from unfunded mandates

MA H2070

Creating a commission to study the effects of unfunded mandates on municipalities

MA H508

Relative to an educational unfunded mandate task force

MA H4573

Study Order

MA H2846

Relative to exempting municipalities from the gas tax

MA H1867

Clarifying mandatory overtime protections

MA S1147

Clarifying mandatory overtime protections

MA H2881

To exempt municipalities from the gas tax

MA H1768

Relative to the protection of vulnerable adults from sexual assault committed by mandated reporters, persons in a position of trust, and providers of transportation

MA S872

Enabling local options for tenant protections

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.