S 664
An Act relative to liability for release of hazardous materials
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House
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Bill overview
This bill addresses liability for the release of hazardous materials in Massachusetts. It aims to clarify and strengthen the state’s existing laws regarding who is responsible when hazardous materials are released, potentially impacting businesses and individuals involved in handling such materials. The legislation seeks to ensure adequate compensation for damages and cleanup costs resulting from releases, regardless of fault. It is modeled after similar legislation in other states.
Key provisions
- Clarifies the definition of ‘hazardous materials’ for liability purposes.
- Establishes a framework for determining liability in cases of releases.
- Addresses potential gaps in current law regarding remediation costs.
- Specifies procedures for reporting and investigating hazardous material releases.
- May include provisions for establishing a fund to cover cleanup costs.
Who is affected
- Businesses that handle hazardous materials
- Property owners with hazardous materials on their property
- Individuals potentially impacted by hazardous material releases
- Environmental agencies in Massachusetts
- Local municipalities
Notable changes
- Likely expands the scope of liability for hazardous material releases.
- May require stricter reporting and notification procedures.
- Could establish a more robust process for determining responsibility and allocating costs.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Bruce E. Tarr
Cosponsors
Bruce E. Tarr
Arguments in favor
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Bill S.664 194th (Current)
An Act relative to liability for release of hazardous materials
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 664) of Bruce E. Tarr for legislation relative to liability for release of hazardous materials. Environment and Natural Resources.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Bruce E. Tarr
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill S.664
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on Environment and Natural Resources |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 6/10/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 06/17/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 |
| 8/11/2025 | Senate | Accompanied S615 |
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