Relative to crumbling concrete prevention and protection
Impact
The bill seeks to establish a Crumbling Concrete Assistance Fund, which will provide financial aid for the repair or replacement of affected foundations. This fund will be administered by the Department of Housing and Livable Communities, allowing homeowners to access funds without needing separate legislative approvals each time. Additionally, the bill permits property tax abatements for homeowners whose foundations are affected by these minerals, incentivizing compliance and support for impacted residents.
Summary
House Bill 983 aims to address the growing issue of crumbling concrete in residential homes, particularly concerning the presence of harmful minerals like pyrrhotite and framboidal pyrite in concrete foundations. This bill mandates home inspectors to inform potential buyers or lessees regarding the possible presence of these minerals during inspections. It also requires licensed inspectors of new homes to review municipal inspection documentation to ensure compliance with building codes, thereby improving safety and awareness for homeowners.
Contention
While supporters argue the bill is a necessary step to protect homeowners and ensure structural safety, there may be concerns regarding the funding for the assistance programs. The bill stipulates that homeowners who have faced insurance claim denials will have their insurers penalized, creating tension between insurance companies and advocates for remediation. Conversely, proponents of the bill emphasize the importance of prioritizing public safety and protecting the integrity of residential properties from geological hazards.
Relative to requiring the Highway Division of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to establish a department and licensure process to oversee quarries producing concrete aggregate
So much of the message from Her Excellency the Governor returning the General Appropriation Bill for fiscal year 2024 (see House, No. 4040) as relates to Attachments A through G, for items returned with disapproval of wording under the provisions of Section 5 of Article LXIII and sections returned with recommendations of amendments under the provisions of Article LVI of the Amendments to the Constitution (House, No. 4055). August 9, 2023