Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4326

Introduced
3/20/25  
Refer
3/20/25  

Caption

To ensure financial viability in the transportation of farm goods

Impact

If passed, H4326 will directly impact the logistical operations for farmers and similar professionals within the state. By allowing a single permit fee for multiple vehicles, the bill is expected to alleviate financial pressures on agricultural entities, allowing them to allocate resources more effectively. The proposed amendment will simplify the legal requirements farmers must navigate, ultimately promoting better compliance and facilitating more effective transportation of their goods. This change can enhance the competitiveness of local farmers in the market by reducing administrative costs and time burdens associated with regulatory compliance.

Summary

House Bill H4326 is introduced with the purpose of enhancing the financial viability of transporting farm goods within Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to amend Section 30A of Chapter 85 of the General Laws, specifically addressing those involved in the harvesting of agricultural and forest products. The key change proposed by the bill is the requirement for farmers operating multiple vehicles under a single farm plate registration to pay a single fee that covers permits for all the vehicles involved in transportation. This aims to streamline the registration process and reduce the financial burden on farmers through more efficient fee structures.

Contention

While the bill aims to provide relief to farmers, there may be some contention regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the proposed fee structure. Critics could argue that the single-fee system may not adequately reflect the varying operational scales and specific needs of different farms. Additionally, there may be concerns about how this new regulation could be enforced and monitored across the state. Stakeholders in the transportation and agriculture sectors may have differing views on how this change would affect overall compliance and state revenue from vehicle permits.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA S2241

To ensure financial viability in the transportation of farm goods

MA H98

Protecting the viability of farms in the Commonwealth

MA H4290

Protecting the viability of farms in the Commonwealth

MA H3675

To create a net-zero transportation financing commission

MA H584

Increasing efficiency and sustainability of student transportation

MA H4422

Relative to school transportation

MA H5119

Creating select board-town manager form of government in the town of Holliston

MA S2255

To explore alternative funding sources to ensure safe and reliable transportation

MA H3428

To explore alternative funding sources to ensure safe and reliable transportation

MA S630

Ensuring access to specialty medications

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.