Rep. David LeBoeuf

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.

By Representative Donato of Medford, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2151) of Paul J. Donato and others relative to immunizations against infectious disease which give rise to a declared public health state of emergency. Public Health.

By Representative Murray of Milford, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Brian W. Murray and others relative to disqualification from operating commercial motor vehicles. Transportation.

By Representative Frost of Auburn, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Paul K. Frost and David Henry Argosky LeBoeuf that the Worcester County Retirement Board be authorized to credit Nathan Hagglund, a member of the Worcester regional retirement system, with certain creditable service in the town of Leicester. Public Service.

Maddy summaryThis bill seeks to amend the Massachusetts Constitution to restore voting rights to individuals currently incarcerated in correctional facilities for felony convictions. The key provision involves removing a specific exclusion clause that currently bars these individuals from participating in elections. If passed by the legislature and approved by voters, the change would allow people serving felony sentences to vote while they are in prison. This measure directly affects the state's incarcerated population and aims to expand electoral participation for this specific group.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates animal welfare laws to require department employees and contractors to report suspected animal cruelty, abuse, or neglect to investigators within two working days, with immediate phone reporting for urgent cases. It protects those who make reports in good faith from legal liability while clarifying that the department itself is not obligated to conduct investigations. Additionally, the legislation allows child welfare officials to request behavior assessments and veterinary records from foster or pre-adoptive homes to ensure child safety, while explicitly prohibiting placement denials based solely on a dog's breed.

Maddy summaryThis bill exempts the position of Police Chief in the town of Leicester from the state's civil service law. It allows the town to hire and manage the chief without following the standard civil service rules that apply to other public employees. The law ensures that any current Police Chief serving on the effective date will keep their existing civil service status and benefits. This change gives the town more flexibility in appointing the chief while protecting the rights of the current officeholder.

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.

By Representative LeBoeuf of Worcester, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2581) of David Henry Argosky LeBoeuf and Patricia A. Haddad relative to the retirement benefits of certain employees of the Department of Transitional Assistance and the Department of Housing and Community Development. Public Service.

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.