Massachusetts lawmakers advance Freedom to Move Act to align transportation with climate goals

The Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy convened on May 14, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at aligning Massachusetts' transportation policies with its climate goals. The primary focus was on the "Freedom to Move Act," which seeks to reduce carbon emissions from the transportation sector, the largest source of emissions in the Commonwealth, accounting for approximately 40% of overall carbon pollution.

The meeting began with a presentation emphasizing the need for regional planning agencies to assess transportation spending through local government frameworks. This approach aims to ensure that public dollars are spent wisely, promoting investments in transportation systems that enhance reliability and support economic growth while simultaneously driving down emissions. The proposed legislation includes flexible options for regional planners, allowing for tailored solutions that address local needs without imposing a one-size-fits-all strategy.

Kevin Chen from the Union of Concerned Scientists testified in support of the bill, highlighting its potential to bridge the gap between climate goals and transportation decisions. He pointed out that improved transportation options could lead to significant savings in energy infrastructure and vehicle ownership costs, making the transition to a decarbonized transportation system more feasible. Chen also noted the importance of addressing the needs of rural communities, where limited public transit options often force residents to rely on personal vehicles, leading to increased costs and social isolation.

Seth Gadbois from the Conservation Law Foundation echoed these sentiments, advocating for the bill as a means to strengthen Massachusetts' climate policies. He pointed out that other states, like Colorado and Minnesota, have successfully aligned transportation spending with climate targets, redirecting funds from projects that would increase emissions to more sustainable options. Gadbois emphasized the need for clear, measurable targets for reducing vehicle miles traveled, which he argued are essential for effective planning and achieving climate goals.

The discussion also touched on concerns regarding the potential impact of the legislation on rural areas. Some committee members expressed apprehension about the implications of reducing overall miles driven, particularly for residents who must travel long distances for work. The witnesses reassured the committee that the bill is designed to provide flexibility and accommodate the unique transportation needs of different regions, ensuring that solutions are not detrimental to rural communities.

As the meeting progressed, committee members raised questions about the balance between reducing vehicle miles and supporting necessary travel for employment. The witnesses reiterated that the goal is to create more transportation options, thereby reducing reliance on personal vehicles while still recognizing the importance of driving in certain contexts.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions underscored the urgency of advancing the Freedom to Move Act as a pivotal step toward achieving Massachusetts' climate objectives. The bill aims to foster a more integrated and sustainable transportation system, ultimately benefiting public health, economic vitality, and environmental sustainability. The committee plans to continue deliberations on the legislation, with further testimony and discussions anticipated in future meetings.