Amendment #80 to H4876

Responding to the threat of invasive species

Mr. Rogers of Cambridge moves to amend the amendment by adding the following:

SECTION XXXX. Chapter 20, as appearing in the Official Edition, of the General Laws is hereby amended by adding the following section:-

Section 33. (a)  The executive office of energy and environmental affairs shall establish and maintain a comprehensive invasive species office for the purpose of promoting the ecological integrity and biodiversity of the state’s lands and waterways by controlling invasive species and strategically coordinating management efforts across the state. The office shall focus on each function of invasive species management, including at a minimum, prevention, management, education, and collaboration. The office, with respect to each function, shall: (i) prevent the introduction or re-introduction of invasive or potentially invasive species, (ii) eradicate or control invasive species through early detection and rapid response and best management practices, (iii) target invasive species education to the general public, schools, industries, government agencies, and other organizations, and (iv) facilitate development and support of cooperative invasive species management areas that maximize regional resources and impact.

(b) The office shall coordinate with cities and towns to combat the negative effects of invasive species and increase resources and funding that support city and town-sponsored activities involving invasive species. The office shall identify all federal and private funds available to the state and to private entities to address invasive species and assist state departments, private and non-profit entities to acquire these funds.

Additional co-sponsor(s) added to Amendment #80 to H4876

Responding to the threat of invasive species