Today, Republican Governor Charlie Baker signed H. 5060, Massachusetts’ new Climate and Clean Energy Bill into law. By reaching a compromise, the state legislature and the Baker Administration have reinforced their commitment to leading the nation and acting urgently to address the climate crisis. Governor Baker’s signature comes on the heels of the US Senate passing the Inflation Reduction Act, the biggest federal action on climate in US history. These sweeping actions are the result of people across the Commonwealth and the country experiencing the impacts of climate change firsthand and demanding action. It is yet another example of the incredible progress the nation has seen from state climate action this year. 

“This law builds on existing climate policy and accelerates our transition to local, clean energy, setting us on a course toward a sustainable, healthy future,” said ELM Action Fund Executive Director Casey Bowers. “Recent heatwaves and drought conditions have made the immediate need to reduce emissions and protect vulnerable communities even clearer. ” 

Bowers went on to say: “We look forward to carrying this momentum and building on this legislation next session to ensure Massachusetts is on track to reach its 2030 and 2050 climate goals. We cannot afford to slow down. We thank Governor Baker for signing this bill and solidifying his legacy as a leader in offshore wind and clean energy and our climate champions in the Legislature for their tireless work ensuring this bill becomes law.”

What’s in the bill 

• Incentives and legal changes that will increase offshore wind 
• Permitting changes for renewables
• Major rebates and incentives for electric vehicles, public transit, and EV infrastructure
• Requirements for building energy efficiency and reduced emissions
• Transmission and grid modernization
• Major equity and consumer protections

For a full bill breakdown please see Environmental League of Massachusetts summary.