Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new chapter in Massachusetts law to reduce the use of plastic bags by defining specific terms for retailers and bags. It creates a legal definition for a "reusable bag" as one made of durable materials like cloth or hemp with stitched handles, while also defining standards for "recycled paper bags" that must contain a minimum percentage of postconsumer recycled material. The legislation applies to a wide range of retail establishments, including grocery stores, restaurants, food trucks, and institutional cafeterias, by setting the stage for future regulations on bag usage and materials. By amending the state's General Laws, the bill provides the framework for the Department of Environmental Protection to implement specific rules regarding plastic bag reduction.
Rep. Tony Cabral
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts laws to strengthen protections for workers injured on the job by requiring the state department to investigate all injury claims and hold conferences to gather evidence, regardless of whether a dispute is currently active. It also expands the legal remedies available to injured workers by allowing for punitive damages and injunctive relief in cases where employers violate specific safety regulations. Additionally, the legislation updates fee schedules and clarifies the types of damages that can be recovered when workers file complaints against employers for failing to meet safety standards.
By Representative Cabral of New Bedford, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2995) of Antonio F. D. Cabral and others relative to bidding for public construction contracts. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the City of New Bedford to grant a utility easement to the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. The permission allows the university to install and maintain underground utilities under a specific section of city-owned land at Fort Taber Park. In exchange, the university is required to restore the park's surface, including any altered paths or infrastructure, and ensure the land remains available for public park use. The specific area affected is identified by a dated engineering plan, and the law becomes effective immediately upon passing.
By Representative Cabral of New Bedford, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Antonio F. D. Cabral for legislation to establish a sick leave bank for Corinne Senna, an employee of the Trial Court. The Judiciary.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new chapter in Massachusetts law to ensure state agencies provide timely and culturally competent language services to individuals with limited English proficiency. It requires agencies to create written language access plans that outline specific tasks, deadlines, and responsible personnel to guarantee equal access to public services. The legislation defines key terms such as "equal access" and "culturally competent" to guide how agencies must communicate with non-English speakers. By mandating these administrative blueprints, the law aims to remove language barriers for residents seeking government assistance, programs, or activities.
Maddy summaryThis bill, titled "An Act relative to healthy youth," is a procedural measure that does not contain specific policy language or substantive provisions. Instead, it serves to formally introduce a legislative concept or topic for further discussion within the Massachusetts General Court. The text provided lists numerous legislators who have signed onto the petition but does not include the operative sections that would define how the state would support youth health. Consequently, the bill currently functions as a placeholder to initiate the legislative process rather than establishing concrete rules or programs.
By Representatives Kane of Shrewsbury and Garlick of Needham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2204) of Hannah Kane, Denise C. Garlick and others relative to accelerating improvements to the local and regional public health system to address disparities in the delivery of public health services. Public Health.
By Representative Cabral of New Bedford, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Antonio F. D. Cabral for legislation to establish a sick leave bank for Ana C. Contreras, an employee of the Trial Court. The Judiciary.