By Representative Scanlon of North Attleborough, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 4068) of Adam J. Scanlon for legislation to address health insurance coverage by implementing a fair share employer contribution. Labor and Workforce Development.
By Representative Decker of Cambridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1358) of Marjorie C. Decker relative to health care research and decision-making centered on patients and persons with disabilities. Health Care Financing.
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People with Disabilities
This bill strengthens protections for reproductive and gender-affirming healthcare services in Massachusetts. It prohibits state agencies, employees, and healthcare data systems from sharing personal information (like addresses or contact details) of providers or patients, or cooperating with out-of-state investigations into these legally protected services. The law also blocks state agencies from using public resources for such investigations and restricts health data sharing for enforcement purposes, with civil penalties for violations. These changes directly affect healthcare providers, patients receiving these services, and Massachusetts state/local agencies handling health data.
H 4329 establishes a new legal framework for medical decision-making when patients lack capacity to make their own choices. It creates Chapter 201G defining key terms and setting a priority order for surrogate decision makers (spouse, adult children, parents, siblings), requiring them to submit a written, sworn declaration. The bill specifies criteria for selecting among eligible candidates - such as relationship, familiarity with the patient’s values, and availability - and prohibits certain individuals (like treating physicians or facility staff) from serving as surrogates. Additionally, it amends existing law to allow healthcare agents’ authority to continue for up to six months after a patient’s death with prior written permission.
H 4342 requires most health insurance plans in Massachusetts to cover routine outpatient doctor visits and basic medical care without requiring patients to pay a deductible first. This applies to standard individual, group, and employer-sponsored health insurance plans sold within the state. Certain federal tax-exempt health plans may still require deductibles to maintain their tax status. The law aims to reduce upfront costs for common medical services like check-ups and minor treatments.
By Representative Silvia of Fall River, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1326) of Alan Silvia for legislation to ensure access to prescription medications. Financial Services.
By Mr. Driscoll, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1514) of William J. Driscoll, Jr. for legislation relative to provider choice and vaccines. Public Health.
By Ms. Lovely, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 886) of Joan B. Lovely, Michael J. Barrett, Hannah Kane, James K. Hawkins and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to family members serving as caregivers. Health Care Financing.
By Representative Gregoire of Marlborough, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1369) of Danielle W. Gregoire relative to supportive housing and healthcare costs for low-income seniors. Health Care Financing.
By Mr. Rush, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2600) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Michael F. Rush for legislation to require health insurance coverage for scalp cooling systems. Financial Services.
