Maddy summaryThis bill updates the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission by redefining key terms and adjusting the composition of its governing board. It introduces new definitions for concepts such as "health equity," "significant equity investor," and various healthcare entities like pharmacy benefit managers and private equity companies to clarify who is regulated. The legislation also changes how the commission's board is formed, specifying that members will be appointed by the governor, state officials, and legislative leaders rather than solely by the Department of Public Health. Additionally, the bill repeals previous sections related to medical assistance divisions and modifies the oversight structure for the commission. These changes aim to refine the legal framework used to review and regulate the state's healthcare market.
Rep. Dan Donahue
Sponsored bills
The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two branches with reference to the Senate amendment of the House Bill relative to treatments and coverage for substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure (House, No. 4758), reports recommending passage of the accompanying bill (House, No. 5143).
Maddy summaryThis bill amends state insurance and health laws to improve pain management and substance use disorder treatment for public employees and medical professionals. It requires group insurance plans for state workers to cover non-opioid pain treatments, such as acupuncture and behavioral therapy, without needing prior approval, and mandates that opioid reversal drugs and recovery coach services be fully covered with no deductibles or copayments. Additionally, the legislation mandates that doctors and pharmacists complete specific training on non-opioid pain alternatives and overdose prevention, while requiring pharmacies in high-overdose areas to maintain a continuous supply of opioid antagonists.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to allow Massachusetts to tax agricultural and horticultural land based on its farming value rather than its potential market value. The change would directly affect landowners who actively use their property for farming or gardening, potentially lowering their property taxes. To qualify for this reduced valuation, a land parcel must have been used for these purposes for at least two years and meet specific size requirements depending on the municipality's population. The amendment requires approval by the state legislature and a vote from the public to become part of the state constitution.
By Representative Garlick of Needham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2330) of Denise C. Garlick and others relative to providing protections for health care employees who are victims of violence or assault and battery. Public Safety and Homeland Security.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes legal protections for workers employed by transportation and delivery network companies in Massachusetts, such as ride-share and food delivery drivers. It mandates that these workers be presumed to be employees of their companies, granting them the same wage, hour, and benefit rights as other workers in the state. Additionally, the legislation updates regulations to ensure these companies provide safe and reliable services while remaining accountable to consumers and the community.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new chapter in Massachusetts law to allow rideshare drivers to form organizations and negotiate with companies to improve industry-wide working conditions. It aims to address issues like pay, health coverage, and scheduling by enabling collective bargaining between drivers and digital transportation platforms. The legislation authorizes the state to oversee these negotiations and approve recommendations that raise standards for workers in the digital marketplace.
By Representative Donahue of Worcester, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2506) of Daniel M. Donahue and Patricia A. Haddad that the Division of Personnel Administration conduct a civil service exam for certain benefits eligibility and referral social workers. Public Service.
By Representative Donahue of Worcester, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2505) of Daniel M. Donahue and others relative to public employee retiree benefits. Public Service.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to create an exemption for specific business-to-business transactions involving catalytic converters. It allows buyers to purchase these converters from registered businesses that manufacture them or regularly generate used ones without needing a special dealer license. Under the new rules, these licensed businesses must record the date, time, quantity, and proof of their business status for each transaction. The change aims to streamline commercial trade in catalytic converters while maintaining oversight through mandatory documentation.