State Rep. Jerry Parisella is pushing the $3.4 billion climate bill

BEVERLY, MA — State Rep. Jerry Parisella is touting the boost to the state’s life and climate science industry that is being designed as part of a $3.4 billion economic development bill that passed the House of Representatives last week.

The bill aims to make Massachusetts more affordable for workers and businesses in the life sciences, clean energy and manufacturing industries.

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“This legislation promotes economic growth in all regions of the state and makes more targeted investments in key sectors like life sciences and climate technology,” said Parisella, chairman of the House Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. “This session’s bill highlights include $700 million in meaningful tax credits, new licensing reforms, workforce training and consumer protections for ticketing, electric vehicle charging and home improvement contractors.

“This is an exciting time in Massachusetts history, and I’m proud of the work being done to keep us not only competitive, but a leader in vital industries.”

The bill includes $500 million in grants for the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, $400 million in MassWorks public infrastructure grants, $250 million for Mass Impact to support large transformational projects, $200 million $200 million for the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, $200 million for MassCEC to research and invest in offshore wind infrastructure, and $150 million for public library grants.

The bill passed the House of Representatives 155-2 and now goes to the Senate for consideration.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached @[email protected]. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)