Massachusetts Senate Bill S2199

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Report DNP: 9/5/24

Caption

Amending the statutory responsibilities of the Department of Public Utilities and establishing a commission on transportation safety oversight and regulation

Impact

The bill proposes to repeal numerous sections of the existing General Laws, particularly those that previously governed the Department of Public Utilities. By transferring the safety and oversight responsibilities to a newly formed commission, S2199 aims to centralize and streamline transportation regulations. This move is expected to improve accountability within the transportation sector and enhance public safety through more specialized oversight.

Summary

S2199 is an Act which proposes significant amendments to the responsibilities of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities and the establishment of a new commission focused on transportation safety oversight and regulation. The bill aims to enhance the governance of transportation network services and ensure the safety of passengers and freight. By creating a commission, the bill seeks to provide a more specialized structure for overseeing transportation safety, as well as regulating the transportation network companies operating within the Commonwealth.

Contention

There are potential points of contention related to how the transfer of oversight responsibilities may affect existing regulatory frameworks. Some stakeholders may argue about the adequacy of the commission in handling both oversight and enforcement functions, and there may be concerns regarding the fees that the commission may charge transportation network companies. Additionally, opponents of the bill might raise issues about transparency and public participation in the commission’s processes.