Public beaches across Massachusetts could soon get bigger under new proposal

Public beaches in Massachusetts could soon be expanding under a proposal being considered by state lawmakers. The measure would reclassify barrier beaches as public land and potentially expand shoreline access for residents and visitors.

Barrier beaches run parallel to the coastline and are separated from the mainland by water or wetlands. These dynamic landforms are constantly being reshaped by erosion, storms and rising sea levels. Under current Massachusetts law, private property ownership can extend to the tide line, resulting in many portions of the beach becoming privately owned.

Supporters of the proposal say making barrier beaches accessible to the public would reflect their changing nature and provide greater access to coastal areas.

But opponents warn the change could lead to lawsuits from property owners and cost the state millions of dollars, according to comments Shared with The Boston Globe.

The bill is expected to be debated in the Massachusetts Senate next week. Even if approved there, it must pass the House before going to the governor’s desk.

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