Cambridge City Leaders Applaud New Climate Legislation

Cambridge City leaders are applauding new proposals to step up critical state funding and policy support for transitioning away from fossil fuels and preparing for extreme weather driven by climate change. 

The Mass Ready Act authorizes the state to spend $2.9 billion over five years to upgrade dams, ensure safe water, and prepare for severe heat and flooding. It would expand a grant program that helps communities identify climate hazards, assess vulnerabilities, and implement action plans to improve resilience to extreme weather events.

“Over a third of this funding is focused on climate resilience and environmental justice,” said Kendra White, Cambridge’s Climate Resilience Manager. “The funding programs and policies in this bill will make a real difference to the residents and workers in Cambridge most at risk of harm from extreme weather.”

Mass Ready follows closely on the heels of the proposed Energy Affordability, Independence & Innovation Act. That bill would address high energy costs, aid the transition to renewable energy, and make energy efficiency upgrades more accessible for low-income households. It would keep utilities from shutting off electricity to low-income customers who need air conditioning during heat waves.

“While protections exist during the winter, no protections exist for the summer,” said Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang, testifying in support of the Energy Act at a June 25 state legislative hearing on behalf of the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition. He cited the recent heat wave and the trend toward hotter summers driven by climate change. “We firmly believe this action will save lives.”

The bill would also restrict competitive electricity suppliers. The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office has found that these suppliers target low-income residents with rates that are initially low but frequently rise. Cambridge Climate Chief Julie Wormser noted that their customers in Cambridge often end up with rates that are much higher than those paid under the City’s electricity aggregation program.

"Only 69% of our low-income residents are enrolled in the City’s less-expensive community aggregation program, versus 81% of higher-income ratepayers,” she said. “We hope the final bill prevents bad actors from taking advantage of our vulnerable residents.”