Senator Kennedy is a strong proponent of mitigating the effects of climate change, transitioning Massachusetts to clean energy, adequately funding state environmental agencies, and protecting conservation land, waterways, watershed areas, and working farms throughout the Commonwealth. Senator Kennedy is a co-sponsor of innovative legislation filed in the Senate which would seek to curb carbon emissions and ensure that Massachusetts is doing its part to combat climate change by setting a price on carbon. He is also a co-sponsor of “An Act transitioning Massachusetts to 100 per cent renewable energy” which aims to transition the Commonwealth to renewable energy sources for electricity, transportation, heating and other sources of consumption by 2045.

Senator Kennedy is the sponsor of legislation which would re-establish the Clean Environment Fund, previously resolved during the recession, to create a funding source for municipalities to undertake recycling enhancement projects, promote urban forestry, protect water resource, and other important environmental efforts. In addition, he has sponsored legislation which would authorize the study of enhancements to recycling programs in the state.

Rivers have played a critical role in shaping the history and development of the communities that comprise the First Middlesex District. The Merrimack and Nashua Rivers, which in many ways define the landscape of the District, have undergone successful clean-up efforts in recent decades after long being marred by contamination and pollution. This has been due in large part to the devotion of community groups and advocacy organizations leading the charge for clean waterways in partnership with the state and federal government. Senator Kennedy is committed to making sure the state continues to do its part to protect our rivers. He has co-sponsored legislation this session to address the threat of invasive species spreading throughout waterways.