Take Action Now: Support the Snow Removal Liability Bill for a Safer Winter in Massachusetts
Take Action Now: Support the Snow Removal Liability Bill for a Safer Winter in Massachusetts
As winter’s grip tightens, the importance of efficient and effective snow removal becomes increasingly evident, not just for our daily convenience but also for our safety. However, there’s more to snow removal than just clearing driveways and sidewalks. A significant legislative development is on the horizon in Massachusetts that could impact how snow removal services operate, ensuring they can do their jobs without undue legal pressure. Here’s what you need to know and how you can help.
A Leap Forward: The Snow Removal Liability Bill (S.1221)
The Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals (MALP) has been actively involved in advocating for a bill that promises to bring much-needed clarity and fairness to the snow removal industry. The bill, known as S.1221 – An Act Relative to Snow Removal Service Liability Limitation, aims to limit the liability snow removal services face, allowing them to work more efficiently and effectively.
Steve Boksanski, the Legislative Agent for MALP, shares the good news: “The Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development reported out favorably on S.1221, and it has now been referred to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means.” This progress is a crucial step towards enacting the bill, but it’s not the finish line. The snow removal community, along with their clients and supporters, must come together to ensure the bill’s passage.
Why This Matters to You
For clients of our insurance agency in Massachusetts, this bill is not just a legislative matter; it’s about enhancing the safety and reliability of snow removal services. By limiting undue liability on these essential services, the bill will enable them to operate more effectively, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring that properties are cleared of snow and ice promptly. This not only minimizes physical risk but can also lead to potentially lower insurance premiums due to reduced claims from snow-related incidents.
How You Can Help
Your voice matters, and here’s how you can lend it to support S.1221:
Contact Your Senators: Reach out to your state senators via email, phone, or letter, urging them to support the passage of S.1221. This is particularly crucial if you’re in a district represented by a member of the Ways & Means Committee. Your advocacy can make a real difference.
Join the Green Industry Alliance (GIA) on Beacon Hill: Mark your calendars for Thursday, February 29, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This is a unique opportunity to meet with legislators alongside fellow MALP members and colleagues. For more details, contact Karen Connelly at malcp@yahoo.com or Virginia Wood at vwood@mlp-mclp.org.
Resources for Your Advocacy
Understanding the bill is the first step to effective advocacy. A summary of the legislation is available, along with a sample letter to help you articulate your support to your senator or representative. Supporting the Snow Removal Liability Bill is not just about aiding a specific industry; it’s about contributing to a safer, more efficient winter for everyone in Massachusetts. As part of our community, your action can help ensure that this vital bill crosses the finish line. Let’s work together to make our winters safer and our snow removal services more reliable.
