An Act relative to supported decision making
This bill amends Massachusetts law to create a legal framework for supported decision-making, allowing adults to voluntarily choose supporters to help them make life decisions without losing their own autonomy. The legislation defines supporters as individuals who assist with understanding options, communicating choices, and advocating for the decision-maker's wishes regarding housing, medical care, finances, and employment. Key provisions grant supporters specific authority to help manage affairs while ensuring the decision-maker can revoke the agreement at any time or have it terminated by a court if abuse or exploitation occurs.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Jul 2024
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023
Last action Jul 29, 2024
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
11
Key actions
4
Committee
1
Jul 15, 2024
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
May 21, 2024
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Mar 28, 2024
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities
lower
1 primary · 2 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Christopher Markey
DDemocratic
Co
Marc Lombardo
RRepublican
Co
Vanna Howard
DDemocratic
Ask Maddy
·
AI policy assistant
Ask Maddy about H 201
Scope: MA
Hi! I can help you understand H 201. What would you like to know?
Try one of these
i
Maddy answers using official bill text and legislative records. Always verify before sharing.
Sources cited inline