Consumer Protection

193rd General Court (2023-2024)

S. 476
An Act improving municipal water infrastructure

This bill would create a Municipal Water Infrastructure Trust Fund Each municipality would be charged an assessment of $0.70 on every 1,000 gallons of water that it withdraws for commercial and residential purposes to address the lack of funding for water infastructure.

S. 479
An Act protecting pollinators by eliminating harmful products

This bill would ban the use of harmful pesticides called neonicotinoids, which peer-reviewed scientific studies have shown to negatively impact pollinator health. It would also ban the sale of blooming or flowering plants, plant material, or seeds that have been treated with a neonicotinoid within the commonwealth.

S. 2118
An Act relative to ensuring gas safety and consumer fairness

This bill would strengthen the state law concerning the repair of gas leaks, including leaks near school zones. It would require more transparency from the Department of Public Utilities and gas companies regarding leaks and disallow companies from charging ratepayers for lost and unaccounted for gas.

S. 480
An Act protecting water systems through the labeling of non-flushable wipes

Wet wipes are popular and are often mistakenly flushed. When they enter sewer systems, they cause major damage to pipes, pumps, and the environment. This bill would establish standards for classifying wipes and require those that do not meet dispersible standards to be labeled accordingly.

S. 162
An Act to enhance diversity in the awarding of liquor licenses

This bill allows immigrants to participate in the liquor industry. Under current law, immigrants – including lawful permanent residents (i.e. Green Card holders) – are restricted from full participation in the Massachusetts liquor industry.

S. 629
An Act relative to fairness in debt collection

The Debt Collection Fairness Act updates several long out-of-date consumer protections ensuring that people aren’t pushed over a financial precipice when they are sued for debts that are often old, and have been bought for pennies on the dollar by those currently trying to collect them.