H 1169 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act relative to colon cancer under the age of 50 years of age, prevalence, screening and insurance coverage and care in the Commonwealth aka Martha's Bill

This bill (HD 3540, "Martha's Bill") requires all health insurance plans in Massachusetts - covering state employees, private insurers, and health maintenance organizations - to fully cover colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45, with no out-of-pocket costs. It mandates coverage for multiple screening methods (including colonoscopy, FIT tests, and CT colonography) as recommended by a doctor, eliminating co-pays, deductibles, or other cost-sharing. The policy directly affects all insured Massachusetts residents aged 45 and older, ensuring access to preventive care without financial barriers. Key provisions specify that screenings and associated services (like lab work or polyp removal) must be covered in full, with no additional charges.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Feb 2025
Senate Passage
Feb 2025
Governor
Introduced Feb 27, 2025 Last action Mar 9, 2026
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
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 27, 2025
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 27, 2025
Committee
Referred to the committee on Financial Services
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors