Energy goals up in the air for 2030

The Commonwealth is legally obligated to meet certain climate targets by the year 2030, but lawmakers are looking for ways to soften these goals. >> 22 News State House reporter Olivia Ray is on Beacon Hill to explain the legislators proposal and push backs from advocates. >> It's a highly contentious issue on Beacon Hill. Should Massachusetts stand by legally binding 2030 climate targets? In 2021, the legislature enacted a law that obligates the Bay State to reduce emissions by at least 50% below 1990 levels by 2030. As shifting federal policies in funding availability make meeting climate goals more difficult, the House is looking to change the rules. Under a proposed bill, the 2030 legal obligations would not be binding under certain circumstances, like if failure to meet the goal is deemed to be because of federal instead of state policy. The idea of tamping down climate obligations was met with strong swift criticism from climate groups who said in a letter signed by over 100 organizations reducing the enforcability of the project could encourage lawmakers to reverse emissions efforts and goals. Criticism rolled in over the past week and on Monday the House budget chief told reporters the bill will no longer be up for a vote soon as part of a larger climate package. Dan Zachin, legislative manager of 350 Mass, explained the significance of the delay in a statement to 22 News, reading in part, quote, I'm glad to see the House listening to their constituents and pumping the brakes on this dirty, expensive bill. The proposed bill would increase long-term investments in gas infrastructure, driving up utility rates to feed corporate greed. While the policy is being removed from its current bill vehicle, it is possible that the legislature can take another look at easing climate targets in early 2026. Working for you from the state house in Boston.