Rep. Hannah Kane

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance plans in Massachusetts to cover colorectal cancer screening for all insured individuals starting at age 45. It mandates that these screenings, which include various tests like colonoscopies and flexible sigmoidoscopy, be provided without any co-pays, deductibles, or other out-of-pocket costs. The law applies to employees of the state, private health insurance policies, and hospital service plans, ensuring broad access to early detection services. By removing financial barriers, the legislation aims to facilitate regular screening for colorectal cancer in adults under 50.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits health insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers from including clauses in pharmacy contracts that stop pharmacists from telling patients about lower cash prices or alternative ways to buy their medication. It directly affects insurance carriers, pharmacies, and patients by ensuring pharmacists can freely share cost-saving information without fear of penalty. Additionally, the legislation prevents insurers from forcing individuals to pay more at the point of sale than they would if they purchased the medication without using their health plan. By removing these restrictions, the bill aims to increase transparency and allow patients to access potentially cheaper options for their prescriptions.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to increase the sales tax rate on cider from six percent to eight and a half percent. The change directly affects consumers purchasing cider in Massachusetts by raising the cost of the product. By amending Section 1 of Chapter 138 of the General Laws, the legislation updates the statutory tax percentage to align with the proposed rate.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows pregnant individuals in Massachusetts to enroll in state health insurance plans within 30 days of confirming their pregnancy, rather than waiting for the end of a standard open enrollment period. To qualify, the pregnancy must be certified by a licensed healthcare provider, and if enrolled, the health coverage would begin on the first day of the month that certification is received. The law applies to all qualified health plans available through the state health insurance exchange and is designed to ensure timely access to care during pregnancy. The changes would take effect on January 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a special commission to investigate how health plans and pharmaceutical benefit managers use "maximum allowable cost" lists to determine the highest price they will pay for prescription drugs. The commission will consist of ten members representing government officials, health plans, pharmacists, and advocates for providers, pharmaceutical companies, and benefit managers. Its primary task is to examine current practices, financial impacts, industry standards, and transparency regarding these pricing lists. Within 180 days of passing, the commission must submit a report with its findings and any proposed legislation to relevant state committees.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits insurance companies in Massachusetts from charging fees for processing electronic transactions unless they provide written notification to the customer beforehand. It directly affects drivers and policyholders who pay their auto insurance bills online by ensuring they are informed of any associated costs. The key provision amends existing state law to require written notice before any fee can be applied to an electronic payment. This change aims to increase transparency for consumers regarding potential charges on digital transactions.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows motor vehicle insurance companies in Massachusetts to offer discounts to licensed drivers who complete a specific marijuana impairment education course. The course must be approved by the insurance commissioner and include a module on the dangers of driving under the influence of marijuana. It is offered by accredited driving schools or insurance companies and gives insurers the option, rather than a requirement, to provide these savings.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts election laws to allow candidates to use campaign funds for child-care services required because of their political activities. It defines these services broadly to include care from individuals, non-profits, and for-profit organizations, while restricting payments to family members unless they operate a professional daycare or babysitting service. The legislation also permits candidates to claim expenses for child-care that would not otherwise exist but for their campaign. Finally, it requires the director of campaign and political finance to create specific regulations outlining these rules by December 31, 2023.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the MassMade Program within the Massachusetts Office of Business Development to identify, connect, and support local businesses that produce consumer goods within the state. The program will create a publicly accessible resource for consumers to find locally made products while helping businesses identify obstacles and serving as a hub for regional economic organizations. Additionally, the legislation requires a report on encouraging local companies to bid on state projects and mandates a feasibility study for an online system to facilitate the exchange of procurement information related to Massachusetts-made goods.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a task force to review state requirements placed on public schools and districts that are not fully funded by the state. The group will consist of 11 members, including education committee chairs, legislative leaders, the commissioner of education, and representatives from various school organizations. The task force will identify existing laws and reporting rules, suggest ways to simplify or remove unfunded mandates, and calculate the total estimated cost these requirements impose on local municipalities. It must hold at least one public hearing and submit a final report with its findings and recommendations within 12 months of the first meeting.