H4685

Requiring local approval for battery storage facility permitting

Introduced·4/24/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H4685 mandates local approval for battery storage facility permits.

Massachusetts H4685 requires state agencies to obtain municipal approval before permitting a battery storage facility. Municipal governing bodies must hold a public hearing and consider public input before voting on a project. State agencies provide technical assistance but cannot override local decisions. Non-compliant facilities face fines up to $100,000 per violation and must cease operations until compliant. The Attorney General enforces the law and can seek injunctive relief.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Nov 17, 2025

10:00 AM

Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government Hearing

History

Apr 13

House

Accompanied a study order, see H5353 (under House Rule 27)

Feb 17

House

Reporting date extended to Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Feb 17

House

Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order