Massachusetts Senate Bill S12

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/23
• Refer: 2/9/23
• Report Pass: 4/27/23

Caption

Proposal for a legislative amendment to the Constitution relative to select boards

Impact

If enacted, this amendment would impact state laws by formalizing the use of 'select board' as the official term for bodies that oversee municipal governance, effective in all relevant constitutional contexts. This alteration aligns the state's legal language with the current understanding of gender inclusivity and modernizes the framework of municipal governance in Massachusetts. By standardizing this language, the bill also aims to reflect the diversity and inclusivity of local leadership structures.

Summary

Senate Bill 12 proposes a legislative amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts aimed at changing the terminology used in relation to local governance structures. Specifically, it seeks to replace the term 'selectmen' with 'select board' throughout various sections of the state's Constitution. This change is part of a broader movement towards adopting more inclusive and gender-neutral language in government documents and practices, reflecting contemporary societal values.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for promoting gender neutrality, it may also face opposition from those resistant to change or who view such amendments as unnecessary adjustments to traditional governance terms. There is a possibility of debate surrounding the implications of such a change on local identities and historical contexts. Nonetheless, the primary focus remains on ensuring that the language of governance is equitable and representative, echoing ongoing trends in legislative reforms across the nation.