Healthcare

passed · Massachusetts · Senate Nov 17, 2025

S 811: An Act to improve outcomes for those with limb loss and limb difference

SD 1134 requires health insurers in Massachusetts to cover prosthetic and orthotic devices without discrimination based on disability. It mandates coverage for devices designed for specific physical activities (like swimming or biking) and ensures replacement without lifetime restrictions if medically necessary. The bill also prohibits separate financial barriers for these devices and guarantees access to at least two in-network providers, with out-of-network reimbursement options. This directly affects residents with limb loss or difference who rely on such medical equipment for daily and physical activities. The law applies to both private health plans and MassHealth coverage under Chapter 32A and Chapter 118E of Massachusetts General Laws.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill mandates MassHealth coverage for prosthetic/orthotic devices, expanding health insurance benefits and improving patient access for limb loss/difference care.95% confidence

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passed · Massachusetts · House Jan 15, 2026

H 743: An Act establishing a grant program to increase the presence of mental health counselors in schools

This bill establishes a state grant program to help Massachusetts school districts hire more mental health professionals for students. School districts can apply for funds to cover either the salary of in-house counselors or costs for outside mental health service providers. The program requires districts to use grant money specifically for mental health support staff or contracted services, with the Department of Education setting certification rules for funded professionals. The goal is to directly increase mental health resources available to students across participating school districts.

Topics ✓ EducationSupports EducationBill establishes grant program to fund mental health counselors in schools, directly increasing educational support services for students.95% confidence ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill creates grant program to fund mental health counselors in schools, directly supporting mental health services under healthcare policy.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Student Health Mental Health

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passed · Massachusetts · House Jul 9, 2026

H 2544: An Act relative to nursing career pathways in long term care

This bill amends existing law to allocate at least $1 million specifically for career pathway programs in long-term care facilities. It directly supports entry-level workers (like certified nurses' aides, home health aides, and homemakers) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) seeking to advance their careers. The key provision expands eligibility to include programs at Massachusetts public community colleges and Career/Vocational Technical Education Schools, allowing these students to receive financial assistance for transitioning to licensed practical nursing or registered nursing roles. The funding is restricted to Massachusetts residents enrolled in qualifying educational programs.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill creates nursing career pathways in long-term care under Public Health, directly strengthening healthcare workforce development and access to long-term care services.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Healthcare Workforce Long-Term Care

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passed · Massachusetts · Senate Feb 9, 2026

S 843: An Act making technical changes to the Betsy Lehman Center for patient safety and medical error reduction enabling statute

By Ms. Creem, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 843) of Cynthia Stone Creem for legislation to make a technical changes to the Betsy Lehman Center for Patient Safety and Medical Error Reduction enabling statute. Health Care Financing.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill updates enabling statute for Betsy Lehman Center, enhancing patient safety and medical error reduction, directly supporting healthcare quality and patient rights.85% confidence

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passed · Massachusetts · Senate Jan 29, 2026

S 777: An Act relative to specialty medications and patient safety

By Mr. Lewis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 777) of Jason M. Lewis for legislation relative to specialty medications and patient safety. Financial Services.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill focuses on specialty medication safety, directly enhancing patient protection and access within healthcare services.95% confidence

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passed · Massachusetts · House Feb 9, 2026

H 4043: An Act relative to copay assistance for medications

This bill requires pharmaceutical manufacturers to offer copay assistance programs for both branded and generic medications to all Massachusetts residents, regardless of their insurance status (unless federal law prohibits it). It mandates that manufacturers notify the Department of Public Health about program details and eligibility, and the Department must make this information publicly available to patients and healthcare providers. The law directly affects patients struggling with medication costs and pharmaceutical manufacturers operating in Massachusetts. Key provisions ensure transparency and access without restricting participation by manufacturers.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill provides copay assistance for medications, reducing patient out-of-pocket costs and improving access to essential treatments, directly advancing healthcare access.95% confidence

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passed · Massachusetts · Senate May 26, 2026

S 1497: An Act protecting patient safety regarding non-FDA approved drugs

By Mr. Cronin, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1497) of John J. Cronin for legislation to protect patient safety regarding non-FDA approved drugs. Public Health.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill explicitly protects patient safety regarding non-FDA drugs under Public Health, advancing patient rights and safety in healthcare access.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Public Health

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passed · Massachusetts · House Mar 16, 2026

H 2541: An Act relative to the protection of medical exemptions for immunizations for school attendance

This bill (HD 3633) updates Massachusetts law regarding medical exemptions for school immunizations. It requires physicians to provide a written "Medical Certification" stating a child's health would be endangered by vaccination, based on factors like family history or pre-existing conditions. The certification must be submitted annually to the school health program, kept confidential (not shared outside that program or used in court without consent), and protects physicians from disciplinary action or professional harm for issuing it. This directly affects parents seeking exemptions, schools, and healthcare providers involved in school health requirements.

Topics ✓ EducationSupports EducationProtects medical exemptions for school immunizations, enabling student attendance and supporting educational access for those with health conditions.85% confidence ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareProtects medical exemptions for school immunizations, safeguarding healthcare access for students with medical conditions and upholding patient rights in public health policy.92% confidence

Sub-Topics Public Health

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passed · Massachusetts · Senate Jun 16, 2025

S 882: An Act to promote graduate medical education

By Mr. Lewis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 882) of Jason M. Lewis, Joanne M. Comerford and James B. Eldridge for legislation to require MassHealth to make Graduate Medical Education payments. Health Care Financing.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareMandates MassHealth funding for graduate medical education, directly advancing healthcare workforce development and training programs.90% confidence

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passed · Massachusetts · Senate Jan 29, 2026

S 841: An Act to support equal access to community care for elders and persons with disabilities

By Ms. Comerford, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 841) of Joanne M. Comerford, Jason M. Lewis, Brendan P. Crighton, Jacob R. Oliveira and other members of the Senate for legislation to support equal access to community care for elders and the disabled. Health Care Financing.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill explicitly supports equal access to community care for elders/disabled, directly improving patient access to healthcare services as per title and summary.95% confidence

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