MA S561

Exempts zero-emission and near-zero-emission rail infrastructure projects from Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) environmental impact report requirements

Defines "zero-emission rail infrastructure" as infrastructure supporting rail services that produce no exhaust emissions of pollutants or greenhouse gases under any operational conditions

Defines "near-zero-emission rail infrastructure" as infrastructure supporting rail services using hybrid systems combining conventional fuel engines with grid-rechargeable batteries

Applies to light rail, heavy rail, regional rail, commuter rail, and intercity rail services

Covers both rail vehicle infrastructure construction/upgrades and power infrastructure construction/upgrades to support clean rail vehicles