Bay State News

The Massachusetts House and Senate extended their session past midnight on August 1st, yet concluded with minimal legislative achievements. Despite a 22-hour final day, consensus was not reached on several key bills.

The failure to pass the Economic Development bill had mixed implications. While it halted billions in aid for high-tech and green energy sectors, it also prevented a provision that would have barred non-union small businesses from municipal job bids. The House attempted to separate this provision into another bill but the Senate has not addressed it.

An energy bill was also stalled amid the last day's confusion. The Senate's version proposed giving the Department of Public Utilities more power to deny gas hookups, affecting existing natural gas users. The House's version was less restrictive, leading to an impasse that leaves current energy choices unchanged for residents and small businesses.

Additionally, while the House approved a measure allowing Boston to adjust property tax rates unfavorably for commercial properties, the Senate did not act on it. This disagreement was publicly highlighted by exchanges between Boston's Mayor and the Senate President. For small businesses in Boston, no further legislative action could mean avoiding increased operating costs.

There is speculation about a special session or passing bills informally, but legislative leaders have made no announcements. NFIB plans a virtual event in early fall to discuss these pending proposals.