By Representative Gordon of Bedford, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2109) of Kenneth I. Gordon relative to the definitions of covered business entities and covered contract workers under paid family medical leave. Labor and Workforce Development.
This bill establishes a trust fund to grow and diversify the perinatal behavioral health care workforce in Massachusetts. It directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to eligible entities (such as colleges, community health centers, tribal organizations, and public health agencies) that create or expand training programs for providers focusing on mental health and substance use services for perinatal individuals. The grants prioritize organizations serving medically underserved populations or areas with racial, geographic, or health outcome disparities. Recipients must report annually on grant usage, program participants (with demographic data), and impacts on workforce shortages and access. The fund aims to improve access to culturally competent behavioral health care during pregnancy and the first year postpartum.
By Ms. Lovely, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 887) of Joan B. Lovely, Joanne M. Comerford, Christopher Richard Flanagan, Jacob R. Oliveira and others for legislation to increase the monthly amount of money that Medicaid recipients living in nursing homes are allowed to keep from their income to spend on personal items like toiletries, clothing, and small entertainment. Health Care Financing.
By Representatives Vargas of Haverhill and Donaghue of Westborough, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2239) of Andres X. Vargas and Kate Donaghue relative to addresses of sober homes. Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery.
By Representative Fiola of Fall River, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2415) of Carole A. Fiola relative to the practice of “dry needling” or “trigger point acupuncture” by certain health care professionals. Public Health.
H 4641, the "Seizure-Safe Schools Act," requires public and private schools with students diagnosed with seizure disorders to ensure at least one trained staff member can administer FDA-approved seizure rescue medications or assist with Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) magnets. Schools must provide staff training on recognizing seizures and first aid, obtain written parental authorization and healthcare provider documentation for medication use, and develop individualized seizure action plans for affected students. The law mandates these requirements only for schools with enrolled students needing such care, and provides liability protection for staff acting in good faith under the plan. It takes effect one year after enactment.
By Representative Walsh of Peabody, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 798) of Thomas P. Walsh relative to the dignity, privacy, and safety of residents in nursing homes and rest homes. Elder Affairs.
By Ms. Rausch, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1367) of Rebecca L. Rausch for legislation to establish a standard for prevention of heat illness in outdoor public sector workers. Labor and Workforce Development.
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 952) of Bruce E. Tarr for legislation to support access to practical nursing programs in vocational schools. Higher Education.
By Representative Gómez of Easthampton, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2436) of Homar Gómez for legislation to eliminate fees for the removal of a child’s body by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Public Health.
