Rep. Joe McKenna

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to amend Massachusetts law to allow deer hunting on Sundays during the designated open deer hunting season. Currently, hunting regulations generally prohibit taking game on Sundays, but this legislation would create a specific exception for deer. The change would directly affect hunters and wildlife managers by modifying the days on which deer may be legally pursued.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to remove legal restrictions that currently ban the use of handguns while hunting in Massachusetts. By deleting specific sections of state law, the legislation would allow hunters to use these firearms during hunting seasons. The change directly affects hunting regulations and the equipment hunters are permitted to use.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to create a three-phase pilot program called the Crosby Project, specifically designed for veterans. The initiative would first involve researching medical marijuana's effectiveness against opioid use, then launch a physical wellness center in or near Boston that offers medical cannabis alongside other treatments like acupuncture and yoga. If the initial phase is successful, the program would expand to a statewide civilian pilot to help treat conditions currently managed by opioid-based medications. The department must submit a final report on the research and program outline by December 31, 2024.

By Representative McKenna of Webster, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2596) of Joseph D. McKenna for an investigation by a special commission relative to the feasibility of replacing the defined benefit pension plan for public employees with a defined contribution plan for future employees. Public Service.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts state law to allow elected officials to count their time in office as "credible service" for retirement system purposes. The change specifically applies to part-time elected officials who did not actively join the retirement system while serving. By updating the legal definition of credible service, the legislation ensures these officials can receive credit for their years of public service when calculating future retirement benefits.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to lower the fees for small businesses in Massachusetts by setting a flat rate of $250 for both filing a certificate of organization and submitting an annual report. It directly affects limited liability companies and other entities that register with the state secretary, simplifying the cost structure for these filings. The legislation amends existing state laws to establish these specific fee amounts, replacing any previous variable or higher charges. The changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2016, aiming to reduce administrative expenses for small business owners.

By Representative Xiarhos of Barnstable, a petition (accompanied by resolutions, House, No. 3541) of Steven George Xiarhos and others for the adoption of resolutions memorializing the Congress of the United States to convene a Constitutional Convention. Veterans and Federal Affairs.

By Representative Howitt of Seekonk, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3348) of Steven S. Howitt, Michael J. Soter and Joseph D. McKenna for legislation to limit motor vehicle dealer documentation fees. Transportation.

April 1, 2024 -- The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 478) of James B. Eldridge, Adam Scanlon, Michael J. Barrett, Paul W. Mark and other members of the General Court for legislation to expand the sale of products by farmer breweries; and (accompanied by bill, House, No. 387) of Adam Scanlon and others relative to the sale of products by farmer distilleries and wineries, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2629).