BOSTON — State Sen. Anne M. Gobi (D-Spencer) has championed home heating fuel spill protections, by filing S.676 An act relative to the remediation of home heating oil releases. Subsequently the bill was redrafted in committee and submitted as S2821.
Massachusetts residents are largely unprotected, should a home heating fuel spill occur. Often, this means a homeowner is responsible for any clean up, which can be costly. Sen. Gobi has been working to protect homeowners, many who are unaware of the financial risks which can cost homeowners anywhere from $20,000 to $1,000,000 for remediation and clean up costs.
This bill, which passed unanimously, would require insurers to add coverage for accidental home heating oil spills.
Upon the bill passing the Senate, Gobi said, “This legislation is a necessity for homeowners’ protection and peace of mind. The cost of remediation is expensive and can force residents to seek risky financial maneuvers. It is only fair that the State takes actions to protect its citizens from this danger. I am grateful to my colleagues in the Senate for their action today. I urge the House of Representatives to move quickly on this legislation, too. It is in the best interest of the residents of Massachusetts. This is the right move, and the time to act is now.”
Now engrossed, S2821 will be sent to the House of Representatives. To track the bill, and for more information, please visit: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S2821