H 264 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act relative to supported decision making

HD 3289 creates a legal framework for adults (18+) with disabilities to make decisions with support from chosen individuals ("supporters") instead of relying on court-appointed guardians. The bill establishes "supported decision-making agreements" that allow supporters to help gather information, communicate decisions, and advocate for the adult - without making decisions for them. These agreements must be voluntary, written, signed with witnesses, and can be changed or ended by the adult at any time. The law includes safeguards, requiring courts to terminate agreements only if abuse is proven after a hearing, and ensures supporters cannot access protected health or educational records without consent.
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 Dec 29, 2025
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 Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Christopher Markey
Christopher Markey
DDemocratic
MA
9th Bristol