Resolved, 1.) It appears, and it is generally agreed, that Climate Change, is occurring, across our Planet Earth, and that there are actual present consequences, and potential actual future consequences of these circumstances. It has generally been determined that there is a global warming phenomena, that this can also lead to various extremes, that cause rises in water levels, extreme variations in temperature, risks of extreme droughts, exaggerated extremes in storms, and other effects.
2.) While there are numerous arguments regarding causation, its extent, and its potential
severity, there is little argument, as to the reality of these circumstances.
3.) Important aspects of government, public policy, and public services, include, but are not
limited to, providing for the public good, in terms of lives, public health, public safety,
and reasonable protection of property, both public, and private.
4.) Recent disasters, and continuing erosion, especially along the Massachusetts coast,
numerous flooding events within the Commonwealth, and other severe weather events, have
caused damage to the Commonwealth, its citizens, its businesses, and its economic costs; and
potentially presage many further, potentially damaging events.
5.) While larger policies, can most effectively be dealt with by the broader Federal
agencies, and government; and various international agreements; there are numerous practical
circumstances, that should be addressed, and measured, in terms of looking forward, for the
reasonable security of our Commonwealth; and its cities, and towns.
6.) It is in the interests of all residents of our Commonwealth, that their local governments in
the municipalities, and other public agencies, be able to anticipate such costs, needs for various
actions, and what amounts of financing, may be needed, as part of responsible public services,
and long-term planning. This will assist residents, home owners, businesses, institutions, and
other stakeholders, in their long-term planning, as well as their ordinary operations.
7.) Therefore, this Resolve, creates a Climate Change Economic Consequences
Commission, to collect data (including both existing, and new needed data); assess various
likely, and possible, scenarios, relating to climate changes, environmental variations, and other
reasonable adjustments of public policy; and to report on various levels of cost, appropriate
descriptions of insurance, and financing; in terms of individuals, possible disasters, and other
related matters, that are important to the people of our Commonwealth.
8.) Membership – The membership of this Commission shall be appointed as follows: A
total membership of twenty-one (21); five (5) appointed by the Governor, five (5) by the
President of the Senate, five (5) by the Speaker of the House; and the remaining six (6) by the
first fifteen (15), from individuals of the Commonwealth applying, including representatives of
organizations, scientists, local city and town municipalities, insurance adjusters, financial
organizational planners, infrastructure experts, and ordinary citizens.
9.) Duration of Commission – This Commission shall hold regular hearings, at least four (4) per
year, across the Commonwealth, and file reports, on an at least annual basis, completing its
business, not later than five (5) years after its establishment.
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The General Court provides this information as a public service and while we endeavor to keep the data accurate and current to the best of our ability, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.