(a) There shall be a special commission established to study and implement a solution for the removal of double utility poles in the commonwealth that occurs when a replacement utility pole is built alongside an existing utility pole and neither the replacement utility pole nor the existing utility pole is removed. The commission shall consist of the following 6 members: (i) the secretary of the office of energy and environmental affairs or the secretary's designee, who shall serve as chair; (ii) a representative from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation; (iii) a representative from the Massachusetts Municipal Association, Inc.; (iv) a representative from Eversource Energy; (v) a representative from National Grid; and (vi) a representative from Unitil Resources, Inc.

(b) The study shall include, but not be limited to:

(i) assessments on the current state of double utility poles in the commonwealth;

(ii) identification of any possible legal, financial and regulatory barriers involving the removal of double utility poles;

(iii) recommendations for legislation on removal of double utility poles;

(iv) analysis on the economic implications of removing double utility poles in the commonwealth;

(v) proposals on funding for the removal of double utility poles; and

(vi) establishing best practices and procedures for the removal of double utility poles.

(c) The commission shall prepare a report on its activities and on any findings and recommendations. Not later than December 31, 2026, the report shall be submitted to the: (i) chairs of the joint committee on telecommunications, utilities and energy; (ii) chairs of the joint committee on transportation; (iii) chairs of the senate and house committees on ways and means; and (iv) offices of the house and senate clerk.