MA S2244

Creates a low-income cooling assistance program through the Department of Housing and Community Development to help pay cooling-related electricity bills and distribute energy efficient cooling appliances for households earning up to 60% of state median income, with priority for vulnerable persons (over 65, under 5, or with certain medical conditions)

Prohibits utility shutoffs for residential customers facing financial hardship when the heat index is forecast to reach 95°F or above within 48 hours, before holidays/weekends with such forecasts, or when the Air Quality Index is forecast at 151 or above

Requires the Department of Public Health to study whether to add maximum indoor temperature requirements to the state sanitary code, with a report due by December 31, 2026

Establishes an extreme heat task force under the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to develop heat emergency declaration criteria, create a strategic plan for integrating extreme heat considerations into state programs, and submit annual recommendations by December 31

Task force membership includes state agency secretaries, legislative leaders, and representatives from public health schools, municipal associations, environmental justice communities, teachers associations, and Gateway Cities