Senate, June 13, 2024The committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1979) of Joanne M. Comerford, Jason M. Lewis, Michael J. Barrett, Rebecca L. Rausch and other members of the General Court for legislation to establish a jail and prison construction moratorium, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2821).
Senate, June 20, 2024 -- The committee on Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2730) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Barry R. Finegold and Frank A. Moran for legislation relative to deceptive and fraudulent deepfakes in election communications, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2831).
By Mr. Kennedy, a petition (accompanied by resolve) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Edward J. Kennedy for legislation to provide for a study of Bittersweet Vine and other invasive species. Environment and Natural Resources.
Filed by Mr. Barrett -- Order relative to granting the committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy until July 31, 2024 within which time to make its final report on current Senate documents relative to telecommunications, utilities, and energy matters.
By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Jacob R. Oliveira for legislation relative to the regulation of Kratom. Public Health.
Order relative to authorizing the committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs to make an investigation and study of certain House documents concerning veterans' benefits, services, prisoners of war and other veterans issues
This bill creates a new Board of Registration in Midwifery within the Department of Public Health to oversee the licensing and regulation of midwives in the state. The board will consist of eight appointed members, including licensed midwives with significant experience, a physician, a nurse-midwife, and a public representative, with specific requirements for members to address racial disparities in maternal health. Additionally, the legislation establishes a new Board of Allied Health Professions that includes representatives from various health fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lactation consulting. The bill also expands the legal definition of "licensed midwife" to allow them to issue prescriptions and grants local health agencies the authority to conduct in-depth reviews of fetal and infant deaths to improve community health services.
This bill creates a new coordinating council to guide the implementation of a statewide system that integrates behavioral health services into schools. The council will be made up of representatives from schools, healthcare providers, parents, and other community groups, who will work together to develop a three-year plan for expanding access to mental health support for students. Under the legislation, school districts are required to adopt this comprehensive system by September 2026, while the council will regularly report progress and identify any barriers to equitable access. Additionally, the bill mandates that the state department provide specific reporting formats to track how well districts are meeting these new behavioral health goals.
This bill creates a new Board of Registration in Midwifery within the Department of Public Health to oversee and regulate the practice of midwifery in the state. The board will consist of nine appointed members, including licensed midwives, obstetricians, and a public representative, with a specific requirement to consider racial disparities in maternal health during appointments. Additionally, the legislation expands the definition of who can prescribe medication to include licensed midwives and establishes a program for postpartum depression screenings for state employees. It also updates various state laws to formally recognize and define the roles of certified nurse-midwives and licensed midwives across different departments.
Order authorizing the committee on Revenue to make an investigation and study of certain Senate and House documents relative to the fair share amendment, property taxes and other related matters.
Order relative to authorizing the committee on Revenue to make an investigation and study of certain Senate and House documents relative to estate tax, personal income tax and other related matters.
This bill expands health coverage for state employees and retirees by mandating that their insurance plans cover opioid antagonists and licensed recovery coach services without deductibles or prior authorization. It also requires all medical practitioners to complete training on non-opioid pain management alternatives and the risks of opioid misuse before renewing their licenses. Additionally, the legislation directs pharmacies in high-overdose areas to maintain a continuous supply of over-the-counter opioid antagonists and requires substance use disorder treatment facilities to educate patients and provide at least two doses of these medications upon discharge.
