Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts state law to increase the amount of offshore wind energy that electric distribution companies must purchase. It raises the required capacity from 5,600 megawatts to 8,000 megawatts and adjusts the deadline for meeting this target to June 30, 2026. The legislation also shortens the time allowed for companies to secure these contracts from 24 months to 18 months and adds a requirement that the selected project must contribute at least 20% to the evaluation score based on its potential for local employment and economic development. A new selection committee is established to oversee the bidding process, including representatives from energy, housing, economic development, labor, and legislative leadership. These changes directly affect utility companies, offshore wind developers, and the state's energy planning framework.
Rep. Sam Montaño
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a Clean Heat Standard in Massachusetts that requires natural gas and heating fuel providers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. To meet this goal, the state will create a system of tradeable credits called Clean Heat Credits, which represent the pollution reduction achieved by installing specific low-emission heating technologies. The Department of Energy Resources will oversee the program and define which heating measures qualify, while explicitly excluding simple switches between fossil fuels or the use of renewable natural gas and hydrogen. Obligated parties must retire a certain number of these credits to comply with the state's broader climate goals, effectively shifting the financial burden of decarbonizing heating systems onto fuel suppliers rather than consumers.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a special legislative commission to study challenges facing public libraries and their digital resource collections. The commission will investigate costs, consumer satisfaction, privacy concerns, and how licensing for digital materials differs from traditional print resources. It will also review actions taken by other states and make recommendations to support diverse collections and protect patron data. Additionally, the bill prohibits library contracts from restricting the sharing of license terms or requiring libraries to violate patron confidentiality, labeling such violations as unfair business practices. The commission is set to submit its findings and recommendations by October 15, 2025.
By Representative Moran of Boston, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of John Francis Moran and others relative to the right of students to freedom of expression in public schools. Education.
Maddy summaryThis bill allows registered pharmacists in Massachusetts to prescribe and dispense hormonal contraceptive patches and self-administered oral contraceptives without requiring a prior prescription from a doctor. To ensure safety, pharmacists would need to complete specific training, use a risk assessment tool with the patient, and refer the individual to a primary care provider after the transaction. The legislation also mandates that pharmacists provide a written record of the prescription and prohibits requiring patients to schedule an appointment for this service. These changes aim to increase access to birth control by enabling pharmacists to directly provide these medications to anyone who needs them.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to hold hospitals accountable for frequently interrupting their required services. It mandates that if a licensed facility diverts or pauses patient care three or more times in a single year, the state Department of Public Health must hold a public hearing in the affected community. Following the hearing, the department has the discretion to take corrective actions, which may include revoking the facility's license. The measure directly impacts healthcare providers by establishing a clear threshold for service disruptions and ensuring community involvement in the review process.
By Representative McKenna of Webster, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2236) of Joseph D. McKenna and others for legislation relative to LSDs (Lysosomal Storage Disorders) in infants. Public Health.
By Representative Montaño of Boston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2240) of Samantha Montaño relative to providing access to patient protection services for all residents. Public Health.
By Representative Khan of Newton, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2216) of Kay Khan and others relative to the services provided by dental hygienists. Public Health.
By Representative Khan of Newton, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2217) of Kay Khan and others relative to limited service clinics. Public Health.