Rep. Jim Hawkins

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Midwifery Workforce Development Fund to support midwifery education, retention, and birth center sustainability. The fund, administered by the state health department, receives state/federal maternal health funds and private donations, with unspent balances rolling over annually. It finances student education costs, midwife loan forgiveness (potentially requiring work in underserved areas), midwifery training programs, and mental health support for practicing midwives. Additionally, the bill mandates that state health insurance programs pay certified midwives and freestanding birth centers at rates no lower than those for physicians or hospital services for equivalent care.

By Representatives Hawkins of Attleboro and Pease of Westfield, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of James K. Hawkins, Kelly W. Pease and others for legislation to designate August 10th as Agent Orange awareness day. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Maddy summaryH 5032 requires that for public construction projects in Massachusetts exceeding $10 million in cost, contractors and subcontractors must ensure at least 15% of labor hours for each trade are performed by registered apprentices. This applies to all public works projects (like schools or roads) and directly affects construction companies bidding on such projects. Contractors must use apprentice programs approved by the Division of Apprentice Standards and maintain required apprentice-to-journeyperson ratios. Public agencies can exempt specific trades only after proving no qualified bidders with apprenticeship programs are available, with strict documentation requirements. The bill does not apply to projects under $10 million or exempt entire projects unless documented per trade.

Senate, January 29, 2026 -- The committee on Election Laws to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2742) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Rebecca L. Rausch, James K. Hawkins, Brian M. Ashe, Michael O. Moore and others for legislation to enhance safety and security for candidates and professionals, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2918)

Maddy summarySD 924 requires state health coverage to pay for medically necessary habilitative and rehabilitative treatments for adults aged 21+ with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, or autism spectrum disorder. The bill mandates coverage for treatments like applied behavior analysis (provided by licensed professionals) and both dedicated and non-dedicated communication devices (including medically necessary tablets). Coverage applies only to individuals already receiving state health coverage under Chapter 118E, with diagnoses confirmed by licensed physicians or psychologists. This policy change directly expands access to essential, evidence-based care for a specific group of adults with qualifying disabilities.

By Ms. Kennedy, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 877) of Robyn K. Kennedy, Paul W. Mark, James B. Eldridge, John F. Keenan and other members of the General Court for legislation to promote an enhanced care worker minimum wage. Health Care Financing.

By Ms. Miranda, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 891) of Liz Miranda, Joanne M. Comerford and Michael J. Barrett for legislation relative to the primary care workforce development and loan repayment grant program at community health centers. Health Care Financing.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands who qualifies as a "family member" eligible to be paid as a caregiver in MassHealth-funded home and community-based services. It specifically adds legally liable family members - such as biological/adoptive/foster/step parents, legal guardians, powers of attorney, and adult children - to the definition. The law requires the Executive Office of Health and Human Services to submit a state plan amendment or waiver to implement this change. It directly affects MassHealth programs that pay family caregivers, allowing more relatives to provide care while being compensated. The change applies to programs funded under Chapter 118E of Massachusetts law.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SD 981) requires Massachusetts health insurers to increase minimum payments for mental health and substance use services provided by behavioral health clinics by 5% starting in 2027. It mandates that clinics receive at least 20% higher payment rates for these services compared to independent practitioners (like solo therapists). The state must review these rates every two years, adjusting for inflation, comparing staff wages to state averages, and considering new government costs. The bill directly affects behavioral health clinics and independent practitioners who provide mental health services in Massachusetts.

By Mr. O'Connor, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 168) of Patrick M. O'Connor, James K. Hawkins, John F. Keenan, Manny Cruz and other members of the General Court for legislation to increase the safety of individuals with disabilities relying on life-support equipment. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.