Activists hail Massachusetts law as crucial step on environmental justice

Law establishes a clear definition of a community overburdened by pollution and gives most vulnerable residents a bigger voice

Activists are heralding the new Massachusetts climate law as a crucial next step in the state's fight for environmental justice, saying it marks a key change in the state's approach to identifying which residents are the most burdened.

The expansive climate legislation, which was signed by Governor Charlie Baker last week, sets new goals on emissions and clean energy but its emphasis on environmental justice, supporters say, could prove to be transformative.