WBZ News: Newton Holds "Yes On 6" Rally Ahead of State Election In November

NEWTON, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio)  — The supporters of Question 6 on this year's ballot are getting some top-of-the-ballot firepower. Gov. Maura Healey is among the many people supporting the initiative, and appeared at a rally for supporters on Sunday at Hammond Pond Reservation in Newton. 

A "yes" vote supports the establishment of the "Nature for All Fund Initiative," which would take tax revenues from purchases of sporting goods — like golf clubs, camping tents, and fishing gear — and would put them in a "Nature for All Fund," which supports state nature conservation efforts. 

After July 1, 2028, all sales tax revenue from those purchases would be placed in the earmarked fund, which can only be spend on conservation instead of being added to the general state budget that can be used for anything. The question would also create a commission to oversee the use of the money. 

Speakers at the rally were careful to point out that the measure wouldn't create a new tax; it just sets aside money generated by one that already exists. 

Only three other states have similar measures: Georgia, Virginia and Texas. 

Mass Audubon President David O'Neill said the fund will raise some $100 million a year for state forests and parks, more than triple their current yearly funding. The non-profit is one of the most prominent supporters of Question 6. 

There is no formal group registered to oppose the question. WBZ NewsRadio asked O'Neill why a ballot measure was the right way to go about passing the law, instead of letting Beacon Hill pass it. 

He said if the state wants to hit its climate goals by 2030, there's no time to lose. 

"The progress for that to pass looked like it may be multiple years...we couldn't actually wait for that to play itself out."

WBZ NewsRadio's Chaiel Schaffel (X/@CSchaffelWBZ) reports.