An Act relative to the blue economy
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill creates grant programs to support economic development and research related to the ‘blue economy’ – the economic activities connected to the ocean. Specifically, it establishes funding opportunities for Massachusetts small businesses to transition to a circular economy, for non-profits, academic institutions, and businesses to conduct ocean health research, and for high schools to expand educational programs in blue-STEAM fields. These programs prioritize projects that benefit the environment, marine life, coastal communities, and those located in environmental justice areas.
Key provisions
- Creates a grant program for Massachusetts small businesses to transition to a circular economy.
- Establishes a grant program for research and development related to ocean health and responsible ocean use.
- Creates a Blue Economy Education Fund to support high school programs in blue-STEAM industries.
- Prioritizes grant applications from minority-owned, women-owned, and businesses in environmental justice communities.
- Prioritizes projects that benefit the ocean environment, marine species, and coastal communities.
- Prioritizes the use of existing, proven technology.
- Prioritizes projects that promote equity and inclusivity.
- Requires grant recipients to demonstrate a measurable economic benefit to Massachusetts.
Who is affected
- Massachusetts small businesses
- Non-profit organizations
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
3 on record
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources
Cosponsors
Kathleen R. LaNatra
Patrick Joseph Kearney
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