Rep. Brad Jones

Maddy summaryThis proposed Massachusetts bill (H 4620) requires state-funded service contracts (such as janitorial, food services, or facility management) to employ up to 10% of workers with disabilities. Contracts must employ at least 75 full-time equivalent workers, with the 10% requirement met within one year of award. The law defines "individuals with disabilities" broadly to include physical, mental, or neurological conditions affecting work, and directs specific state agencies to oversee implementation and provide employment support. It applies to all state or local government contracts receiving legislative appropriations.

Maddy summaryThis bill extends the retention period for rape evidence kits from the standard period to 15 years. It also creates an exception to the usual statute of limitations for rape cases when DNA evidence identifies the perpetrator after the typical time limit expires. Specifically, prosecutors can file charges at any time if DNA from the original crime scene links to the suspect, even if the original time limit for prosecution has passed. The law directly affects victims of rape by enabling potential prosecution years later when DNA evidence becomes available through modern testing.

Maddy summaryHD 1552 requires shelters, schools, and correctional facilities to provide free disposable menstrual products (like pads, tampons, and liners) to menstruating individuals without stigma. It applies to temporary housing providers (e.g., domestic violence shelters, emergency hotels), all public primary/secondary schools, and correctional facilities (jails, prisons). The bill mandates these products be available in convenient, non-stigmatizing ways, such as in restrooms. This directly affects menstruating people experiencing homelessness, attending school, or in detention. The law creates a new requirement for these specific institutions to cover the cost of products.

Senate, October 9, 2025 -- The committee on Senate Ways and Means, to whom was referred the Senate Bill to increase access to disposable menstrual products (Senate, No. 2546),- reports, recommending that the same ought to pass with an amendment substituting a new draft with the same title (Senate, No. 2640).

By Representative Jones of North Reading, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 84) of Bradley H. Jones, Jr., and others for legislation to provide for an investigation by a special task force (including members of the General Court) relative to the use of the Internet by sex offenders. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.

Senate, July 10, 2025 -- The committee on Public Health to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1549) of Patricia D. Jehlen, John F. Keenan, Michael J. Barrett, Patrick M. O'Connor and other members of the Senate for legislation to increase access to disposable menstrual products, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2546).

By Ms. Lovely, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 155) of Joan B. Lovely, Sean Garballey, Alyson M. Sullivan-Almeida, James K. Hawkins and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to supported decision-making agreements for certain adults with disabilities. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.

By Representative Xiarhos of Barnstable, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Steven George Xiarhos and others for legislation to establish penalties for racing on public ways and unlawful motor vehicle competitions. The Judiciary.

By Representative Xiarhos of Barnstable, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Steven George Xiarhos and others relative to penalties for assault and battery on a police officer. The Judiciary.

Maddy summaryHD 605 establishes a 17-member commission to study service animal misuse in Massachusetts. The commission - including legislative leaders, disability advocates, law enforcement, business representatives, and experts - will examine current laws, investigate fraud/misrepresentation of service animals, and research solutions from other states. It will specifically assess whether to change definitions of "service animal" or create certification systems, and report findings by April 2026. This bill does not change current law but aims to inform future policy based on the commission's recommendations.