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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 913) of Bruce E. Tarr for legislation to stabilize adult day health services. Health Care Financing.
