SECTION 1. The division of highways within the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, established pursuant to section 37 of chapter 6C of the General Laws, shall conduct a study over 3 years on the steps necessary to protect vulnerable habitats, especially wetlands and waterways, along state highways. The study shall include an analysis of: (i) the drainage infrastructure along state highways; (ii) the presence of harmful contaminants from road surfaces and road construction in stormwater along state highways; (iii) the level and type of pollution in habitats resulting from drainage from state highways; and (iv) potential mitigation strategies to reduce and eventually eliminate pollution caused by state highway drainage.

SECTION 2. Not later than June 30, 2028, the division of highways shall submit its report containing the results of the study conducted pursuant to section 1, together with any proposed legislative or regulatory changes, to the clerks of the house of representatives and the senate, the joint committee on transportation and the joint committee on environment and natural resources.