MA H3998

Establishes a Native Planting Fund administered by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, funded through legislative appropriations, interest earnings, state and federal grants, and proceeds from a specialty vanity license plate featuring native pollinator imagery

Requires MassDOT to create a program promoting native flowering plants, grasses, and shrubs along state highways and public lands to incorporate green infrastructure like rain gardens and bio-swales for stormwater management

Directs MassDOT to work with the Department of Agricultural Resources, Department of Environmental Protection, and environmental organizations to identify suitable locations and develop plant selection standards

Authorizes grants to municipalities for green infrastructure projects and partnerships with local nurseries and landscapers to supply native plants and support job creation

Requires annual reporting to the legislature by December 31 on fund activities and program effectiveness, including metrics on stormwater reduction, pollinator populations, and maintenance cost savings