MA S949

Creates a Green and Healthy Public College and University Building Planning Commission chaired by the Commissioner of Higher Education to assess buildings for energy efficiency, air quality, accessibility, safety, and indoor environmental quality, with reassessment required at least every 10 years

Establishes two new funds: a Public College and University Capital Debt Relief Fund to cover capital construction debt service (prohibiting student fees for covered portions) and a Green and Healthy Public College and University Building Fund for renovations and new construction meeting green standards

Requires the commonwealth to pay all construction costs for public higher education buildings after January 1, 2027, eliminating institutional funding or financing through building authorities or private entities

Mandates the commission develop a plan by December 31, 2028, for all public higher education buildings to meet green and healthy standards by 2037, including cost estimates, funding recommendations, and comparison of costs to long-term savings

Requires public hearings at every public higher education institution and consultation with employee organizations before finalizing recommendations, with priority given to buildings with greatest needs and consideration of historic inequities