Massachusetts House leaders hit pause on a controversial energy bill that would have watered down the state’s 2030 climate goals. (Commonwealth Beacon)
For context: The bill aimed to turn the state’s legally binding mandate to cut emissions by 50% by 2030 into an “advisory” goal. It also proposed slashing $500M from the Mass Save efficiency program and removing requirements for utilities to prioritize decarbonization over cost.
The blowback: Climate groups called the move a "betrayal" of the state's environmental commitments. The backlash was strong enough to spook House leadership, who decided to punt the bill until after the winter recess to rework the legislation.