Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H3397

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

To create a mobility pricing commission

Impact

If passed, this bill would significantly influence state laws governing transportation and revenue generation within the Commonwealth. It mandates the creation of a commission that consists of key stakeholders, ranging from transportation experts to representatives of low-income communities. The commission's findings would not only guide pricing strategies for road usage and public transport but also align with Massachusetts' emissions reduction goals set for 2050, thereby creating a multifaceted impact on environmental policy and transportation funding.

Summary

House Bill H3397, titled 'An Act to create a mobility pricing commission', aims to establish a special commission that will investigate and make recommendations on the development and implementation of comprehensive and equitable public transportation pricing, roadway pricing, and congestion pricing. The bill recognizes the need for a structured approach to mobility pricing to address growing traffic congestion and to provide a sustainable funding model for public transportation initiatives. By potentially examining pricing strategies, the commission will work towards enhancing overall transportation infrastructure across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Contention

The main points of contention surrounding HB H3397 include debates on how mobility pricing could affect low-income communities disproportionately and concerns regarding the potential for new tolls or fees that might burden these populations. Critics argue that without adequate measures to ensure affordability and accessibility, such pricing mechanisms might exacerbate existing inequalities in public transportation access. Furthermore, there could be discussions around the practicality and implementation timelines for any pricing strategies proposed by the commission.

Companion Bills

MA H568

Similar To Establishing a special commission to study the effectiveness of the Massachusetts School Building Authority

MA H4088

Similar To Resolve establishing the Harmony Commission to study and make recommendations related to the welfare and best interests of children in care and protection cases

MA H4444

Similar To Establishing boxer protection

MA H4577

Replaced by Study Order

Previously Filed As

MA H1279

Resolve creating a special commission on affordable housing insurance

MA H2285

Creating a commission to study the effects of unfunded mandates on municipalities

MA S768

Resolve creating a special commission on affordable housing insurance

MA S2297

Relative to fair and stable utility pricing

MA S2309

Relative to solar-powered mobility networks

MA S2229

To expand carbon pricing in the commonwealth

MA H2080

To promote economic mobility through ESOL

MA S1326

To promote economic mobility through ESOL

MA H1324

Relative to prescription drug pricing

MA S737

To promote economic mobility through matched savings

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