Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to form a working group that will study how to clean up, repair, and reopen a closed visitor information center located on Interstate 95 in Mansfield. The working group is tasked with creating a detailed plan that addresses specific needs such as removing debris, rebuilding restrooms, adding vehicle charging stations, and determining how the site can be used to promote local tourism. The group must also evaluate staffing requirements, potential funding sources, and how to partner with regional tourism organizations to operate the facility. All findings and recommendations from this study must be submitted to the state legislature by June 1, 2024, without the bill mandating immediate construction or funding at this time.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill requires public colleges and universities in Massachusetts to offer financial literacy counseling to students upon their arrival on campus. The primary goal is to help new students understand student loans and other education-related expenses. Under the legislation, the state Board of Higher Education must provide a College Financing Plan that details estimated costs for tuition, housing, books, and transportation alongside available grants, scholarships, and loan options. Institutions are permitted to deliver this plan in an electronic, printable format, and the Board is authorized to create regulations to ensure these requirements are met.
Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development to investigate industries affected by the pandemic that could benefit from the WorkShare program, a state initiative designed to help businesses retain employees during economic downturns by reducing hours rather than laying off staff. The legislation requires the agency to produce a report within six months detailing current usage, identifying potential new participants, and suggesting ways to increase employer awareness. Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a marketing strategy to be implemented within 12 months, which will include distributing promotional materials and running advertisements to encourage more companies to utilize the program.
Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Department of Elder Affairs to develop a plan for providing specialized services to individuals with early-onset Alzheimer's disease who are enrolled in MassHealth's frail elder home and community-based services waiver. The legislation requires the department to identify specific needs and barriers faced by this population and propose strategies to improve care and support. Additionally, the bill mandates that the department report its findings and proposed plan to the Joint Committee on Elder Affairs by a specified deadline.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires all schools in Massachusetts to keep a supply of emergency epinephrine auto-injectors available for students experiencing anaphylactic reactions. It mandates that these supplies be stored in unlocked, easily accessible locations, with the specific number of injectors determined by the school's population. The legislation also establishes that school staff who administer the medication in good faith are protected from civil liability for negligence, while the Department of Public Health will create rules to ensure proper training and inventory checks. Additionally, the bill directs state departments to seek federal funding and inquire about free epinephrine from pharmaceutical companies to help cover implementation costs.
Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to produce a report on whether non-public school and home-schooled students can voluntarily take the MCAS exam. The report must analyze the feasibility and costs of allowing these students to participate and be distributed to key state officials and legislative committees within six months. This legislation does not immediately grant access to the exam but instead requires an official study to determine if such access is practical and affordable.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends the composition of the Advisory Board to the Massachusetts School Building Authority by adding two new organizations to its membership. Specifically, it requires the inclusion of the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators, Inc., and the Alliance for Vocational Technical Education Coalition alongside the existing Massachusetts Association of School Committees, Inc. The change aims to broaden the board's representation to include voices from vocational and technical education sectors. By updating the list of required members in state law, the legislation ensures these groups have a formal role in advising on school building projects.