The filing deadline for bills for the 2017-2018 legislation session on Beacon Hill was January 20. There are two bills (Senate 425 & Senate 2049) similar to legislation that MEMA defeated last year that would have levied a 2.5 cent tax on every gallon of heating oil statewide to be collected at the wholesale level to establish an Oilheat equipment upgrade program. Important: MEMA is currently working out details on an equipment rebate program to be launched this spring using National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) funds that could provide rebates to consumers of up to $500 for new heating systems and tanks.
There are also bills to alter home owner insurance coverage for home heating oil releases (Senate 436) and to help consumers avoid paying for leaking natural gas (Senate 1113). MEMA will keep the industry updated on all Beacon Hill activity.
