S 2250
An Act relative to municipal authority in public rights of way
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- Passed House
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Bill overview
This bill aims to clarify and strengthen the authority of Massachusetts cities and towns regarding public rights of way. It seeks to ensure municipalities have a greater role in managing the installation and maintenance of utility infrastructure, such as telecommunications lines and equipment, within their communities. The bill intends to balance the needs of utility companies with the local government’s responsibility to maintain safe and accessible public spaces. Ultimately, it seeks to improve coordination and oversight of utilities operating in public areas.
Key provisions
- Provides municipalities with increased authority over utility installations in public rights of way.
- Requires utilities to consult with municipalities before installing new infrastructure.
- Establishes a process for municipalities to request modifications or removals of utility infrastructure.
- Addresses potential conflicts between utility companies and local governments regarding public space usage.
- Promotes coordination between utility companies and municipalities for maintenance and repairs.
Who is affected
- Cities and towns in Massachusetts
- Telecommunications companies
- Utility companies
- Municipal officials
- Residents of Massachusetts
Notable changes
- Increases municipal oversight of utility infrastructure in public rights of way.
- Requires utilities to engage in a collaborative process with local governments.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Brendan P. Crighton
Cosponsors
Brendan P. Crighton
James B. Eldridge
Steven S. Howitt
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Bill S.2250 194th (Current)
An Act relative to municipal authority in public rights of way
By Mr. Crighton, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2250) of Brendan P. Crighton for legislation relative to public utilities that operate in public rights of way. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Brendan P. Crighton Status: Referred to Senate Committee on Rules
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill S.2250
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 6/5/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 06/12/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2 |
| 12/15/2025 | Senate | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Rules |
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