MA H1003

Establishes a drought management task force within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, co-chaired by the secretary and the director of Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency

Task force membership includes commissioners from agricultural resources, conservation and recreation, environmental protection, fish and game, public health, public utilities, the state fire marshal, and representatives from water-related organizations

Requires the task force to meet at least monthly during drought conditions, maintain a statewide drought management plan reviewed every 5 years and updated every 10 years, and provide recommendations on drought levels and responses

Authorizes the secretary to order water conservation measures, including limits on nonessential outdoor water use, based on drought severity in specific drought regions

Mandates cities and towns to enforce water conservation restrictions issued by the secretary to the fullest extent permitted by law