Budget Amendment ID: FY2024-S3-48

ENV 48

Blue Technology Grant Program

Ms. Moran and Messrs. Tarr and Cyr moved that the proposed new text be amended by adding the following section:-

SECTION X. Chapter 21A of the General Laws is hereby amended by adding, after section 28, the following section:-

Section 29. The Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs shall establish a grant program to provide funding to Massachusetts non-profits, academic institutions, and businesses to conduct scientific research and the research and development of new technology created for the purpose of improving ocean health and the responsible use of the ocean. This funding may be used for scientific studies and other research, research and development of new technology, investment into existing beneficial technology, expansion of existing beneficial technology, or research into how the technology affects the Commonwealth, the state economy, or particular industries. The department shall promulgate rules and regulations to support the creation of a grant program. The department shall accept applications from entities that are incorporated in, are properly licensed to do business in, or have a location in Massachusetts. All grants made under this program should provide a measurable economic benefit to the Massachusetts ocean economy.

In awarding grant funding, the Secretary shall prioritize projects with the most measurable benefit to the ocean environment, marine species, or coastal communities; projects using existing technology that is identified as the best available prototype in the field; projects with outcomes that promote equity and inclusivity; projects that promote the use of time-series data. Applications that satisfy one or more of these criteria shall be considered favorably in priority of awards for funding, so long as those applications meet all other necessary criteria. The Secretary is authorized to use her discretion to decide between applications of similar standing.