Beacon Hill Report
By Stephen A . Boksanski , GIA Legislative Agent
The Massachusetts Legislature is back in formal session after taking an unofficial , yet regular August recess . There will be a rush of activity between now and November 15 when their rules call for an end to formal sessions for 2023 . During this period , we expect more public hearings , some bills being reported out of committee , and some floor action with debate and votes . After November 15 , the Legislature will not hold any formal sessions where roll call votes are required but will continue to meet twice each week to process noncontroversial matters .
This session has been marked by internal squabbles between the House and Senate which started with a disagreement over the Joint Rules that dictate committee proceedings and the flow of legislation . This has led to a slower than usual pace for public hearings . For example , we are still waiting for a hearing on – H . 1874 / S . 1221 , An Act Relative to Snow Removal Service Liability Limitation , which is pending before the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development .
As with all legislation that has the potential to impact the green industry , we will want to make sure we have a select group of industry representatives to present oral testimony and field any questions from committee members .
Moving legislation forward has never been easy but the current dynamic has taken things to a new level . Showing we are serious about the liability bill , or any issue , requires a team effort . With a geographically broad set of members , we have the makings of a strong network . If each member could communicate with their state legislators at least once each year , they will be better informed and more likely to help , especially if you are a constituent . Getting to know them a little and more importantly , getting them to know you and your business is the goal . Talking about bills and policy is not required , consider this an exercise in networking . When the time is right to discuss policy , we can arm you with talking points and background , but make that personal connection as a first step .
While the current dynamic poses challenges for us to move our agenda forward , the same exists for the environmental advocacy community that seeks to limit your ability to use certain products and service for your customers . Proposals to repeal the statewide pre-emption law for the regulation of pesticides and efforts to circumvent the same authority over the regulation of fertilizers are in play again and will always be a threat here in Massachusetts .
What is becoming more of a concern is action at the municipal level . Massachusetts has a rich history of local control , and most town meeting proceedings are open to all residents while some communities have elected town meeting members . Town meeting allows for citizens petitions to be considered if submitted in the required time and with the signatures of 10 residents . This low barrier to entry is causing numerous headaches for industry particularly when it comes to gas-powered leaf blowers , and fervent opponents of fertilizer .
On the fertilizer issue , we have the law on our side . Chapter 262 of the Acts of 2012 was a negotiated compromise among industry and environmental advocates who were at the time pushing for a ban on the use of phosphorous . The law prevents individual cities and towns from creating their own rules on fertilizer use and required the state to develop plans consistent with the UMass Extension School of Horticulture ’ s research and published materials . However , even this hasn ’ t stopped some communities from approving local bylaws instructing the towns to request special legislation be filed to exempt them from these restrictions .
It never ends … and therefore , we can never stop educating and informing our elected officials . Please connect with your association leaders to learn more about how you can be part of the team that is standing up for science .
The MAA is a proud member of the Green Industry Alliance ( GIA ), along with the Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals , Massachusetts Association of Lawn Care Professionals , Irrigation Association of New England , and the Golf Course Superintendents of New England . Russell Holman , BCMA , MCA , CTSP serves as MAA ’ s representative . If you are interested in becoming involved with the GIA ’ s legislative and advocacy activities , please contact the MAA .
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