Recent Posts
Posted In: Municipal Law, Public Records
Alexander Hamilton, Public Records Law Share Top Billing at the First Circuit
The First Circuit recently delved into a mustier corner of the Public Records Law in United States v. Letter from Alexander Hamilton to the Marquis De Lafayette Dated July 21,…
Posted In: Marijuana
When it Comes to Pot Shops, Local Control Wins
On July 20, 2021, the Supreme Judicial Court confirmed that municipalities enjoy substantial deference in dealing with marijuana retailers applying for Host Community Agreements (“HCA”). In Mederi, Inc. v. City…
Posted In: Airports
FAA Announces Additional Aid Available to Airports under ARPA
On June 22, 2021, the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) announced its process for distributing Airport Rescue Grants pursuant to the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (H.R. 1319, Pub. L….
Posted In: Municipal Law
Governor Signs Bill Making Zoning Changes and Promoting Housing
The Act Enabling Partnerships for Growth that Governor Baker signed (with some specific vetoes) on January 14 has several provisions affecting municipal zoning. Foremost among these are provisions mandating density…
Aid for Airports and the Aviation Industry in the 2021 Appropriations Act
On December 21, 2020, Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, H.R. 133 (the “2021 Appropriations Act”). The President signed the legislation on December 27. The 2021 Appropriations Act…
Posted In: COVID-19
Governor Mandates Wearing of Face Masks in Public and Delegates Enforcement Authority to Local Boards of Health
On May 1, Governor Baker issued an order mandating that people wear face coverings in public. The order, available here, is the governor’s latest measure responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic. …
Posted In: COVID-19
Notarizing By Video Chat: Massachusetts Temporarily Allows Remote Notarization
With the closure of non-essential businesses, stay-at-home orders, and social distancing in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, the challenges and risks associated with meeting a notary in person has become…
Posted In: COVID-19
Court Confirms Governor’s Powers to Determine What Businesses Are Essential
On April 16, 2020, the Suffolk Superior Court denied a bid by the recreational cannabis industry to stay open as “essential services” during the Coronavirus State of Emergency. The decision…
Posted In: COVID-19
CARES Act Minimum Service Requirements: A Brief Guide for Airports
April 12, 2020- Sections 4005 and 4114(b) of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, H.R. 748 (the “CARES Act”) authorize the Department of Transportation to require an air…
Posted In: COVID-19
7 Things You Need to Know About Massachusetts Municipality Act Gov. Baker Signed Today
The Governor signed into law today Chapter 53 of the Acts of 2020, which includes multiple provisions aimed at reducing burdens on municipalities and state agencies caused by the ongoing…