Rep. Kathy LaNatra

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits employers in Massachusetts from using consumer credit reports to screen job applicants or current employees. It also bans employers from asking candidates questions about their credit history or requiring them to waive their rights against such inquiries. The law includes specific exceptions for roles requiring national security clearance or when federal or state laws mandate the use of credit reports. Employers are further restricted from retaliating against individuals who file complaints or participate in investigations regarding credit discrimination.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Massachusetts education code to require schools to include prescription opioid abuse prevention in their violence prevention curriculum. The change specifically directs educators to teach students about the prescription drug epidemic and explain how misuse of these medications can lead to addiction to other substances like heroin. By adding this topic to existing legal requirements, the legislation ensures that all public schools address the risks associated with prescription opioids as part of their standard safety education.

By Representative LaNatra of Kingston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3365) of Kathleen R. LaNatra and Michael D. Brady relative to railroad crew transportation. Transportation.

Maddy summaryThis bill aims to strengthen the legal protections for residents of assisted living facilities in Massachusetts. It requires the Attorney General to create new regulations that safeguard consumer rights against unfair or deceptive practices within these residences. Additionally, the bill mandates that any violations of these new rules will be treated as violations of Chapter 93A, which covers unfair business practices. The legislation also specifies that these regulations must be finalized and issued within one year of the bill becoming law.

By Representative LaNatra of Kingston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3363) of Kathleen R. LaNatra and Michael D. Brady for legislation to require a minimum of 2 persons for the movement of certain freight trains. Transportation.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the SAVE Students Act, creates a statewide anonymous reporting system for students, staff, and the public to report unsafe or violent activities in Massachusetts schools. The Department of Public Health will establish and manage this program, which must be accessible 24/7 through a mobile app, website, and toll-free phone line, and include a staffed crisis center offering multilingual support. The law requires that the system protect the identity of reporters while allowing them to voluntarily share their information if they choose, and mandates that regulations be developed to ensure the program does not lead to unfair disciplinary actions against students from protected groups.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new, independent Office of Elder Advocate in Massachusetts to oversee the care and services provided to older adults and people with disabilities. The office will investigate complaints, examine systemic issues within state agencies and publicly funded private entities, and offer recommendations to improve safety and dignity for these populations. It also establishes a specific advisory council to guide the office and grants it the authority to impose temporary cost-sharing agreements to ensure timely access to services.

Maddy summaryThis bill mandates that health insurance plans in Massachusetts cover fertility preservation services for individuals facing medical treatments that could cause infertility. It applies to state employees, private accident and sickness policies, and employee health funds, requiring them to fund procedures like egg or embryo freezing to the same extent as other pregnancy-related care. Coverage is limited to cases where a diagnosed condition or its necessary treatment is likely to impair fertility, based on guidelines from reputable medical organizations. The legislation defines these services as those recommended by board-certified physicians following current professional standards.

By Representatives Khan of Newton and Fluker Oakley of Boston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2209) of Kay Khan, Brandy Fluker Oakley and others for legislation to establish a board of registration in midwifery and further regulating out-of-hospital birth access and safety. Public Health.

By Representative Fiola of Fall River, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2163) of Carole A. Fiola and others that the Division of Medical Assistance be directed to provide coverage for screenings for postpartum depression. Public Health.