Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a Trail Access Working Group to improve trail access for people with disabilities across Massachusetts. The working group, required to include at least one-third members who identify as having disabilities and reflect geographic and racial diversity, will review current trail access, study best practices, and issue annual reports with specific recommendations - including cost estimates and funding ideas - to the governor and legislature. It also creates a Trail Access Advisory Council to implement these recommendations and serve as a public resource for accessible trail design. The policy directly affects state agencies managing trails (like the Department of Conservation and Recreation), municipalities with public trails, and people with mobility disabilities seeking equitable outdoor access.
Rep. Jim Hawkins
Sponsored bills
By Mr. Eldridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1973) of James B. Eldridge, James K. Hawkins and Jason M. Lewis for legislation relative to the imposition of an excise tax to provide for climate change adaptation infrastructure and affordable housing investments in the Commonwealth. Revenue.
Maddy summaryThis bill (HD 1307) formalizes pet-friendly policies for elderly residents in state-aided public housing across Massachusetts. It directly affects elderly tenants by prohibiting housing authorities from banning dogs based on breed, size, or appearance, requiring declawing, charging pet deposits over $160 or one month’s rent, or evicting solely for having a pet. Key provisions include banning breed restrictions, limiting deposits, and requiring housing authorities to update pet ownership regulations. An advisory group, including tenant advocates and animal welfare representatives, will help develop housing-specific pet policies and guidance for housing authorities. The bill aims to standardize pet access while ensuring housing authorities comply with these new requirements.
By Mr. Payano, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1364) of Pavel M. Payano, Vanna Howard, Michael D. Brady, James K. Hawkins and other members of the General Court for legislation to streamline state employee collective bargaining. Labor and Workforce Development.
Senate, December 18, 2025 -- The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 263) of Mark C. Montigny, Michael O. Moore, James K. Hawkins, James B. Eldridge and other members of the General Court for legislation to protect consumers from contributing to inhumane animal testing for cosmetics, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2744).
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a 24-month nurse practitioner residency program at community health centers to recruit and retain new nurse practitioners. It requires centers (those receiving federal grants under 42 USC 254b) to offer supervised patient care under physicians or experienced nurses, and mandates participants to commit to at least 18 months of employment at the center. The state must fund the program with $2.5 million annually and seek federal Medicaid reimbursement for this training. The program does not affect existing nursing licensure requirements under Chapters 94C or 112.
Maddy summaryMassCore (HD 1731) establishes a required high school curriculum program for all Massachusetts students entering 9th grade in 2027-2028. It mandates specific course units: 4 English, 4 math, 3 science, 3 history, 2 world language, 1 arts, and 5 electives, aligned with state standards. The bill includes provisions for waivers for multilingual learners, students with disabilities, and newly enrolled students, and requires school districts to report readiness and financial impacts by 2025. Implementation will be guided by an advisory council representing diverse stakeholders, with funding requests for districts facing financial hardship.
Maddy summarySD 2273 sets new wage standards for direct care workers in Massachusetts human services programs. It requires that direct care staff salaries meet or exceed the 75th percentile of similar jobs in the state (per Bureau of Labor Statistics), with proportional increases for front-line staff like case managers and supervisors. The bill also changes how fringe benefits and payroll costs are calculated, benchmarking them to health/education sector costs instead of the Consumer Price Index. It applies to human services providers and state agencies contracting for these services, with a planning process beginning July 1, 2025. The law ensures these wage adjustments won’t reduce funding for existing social service programs.
By Representative Blais of Deerfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 517) of Natalie M. Blais and others relative to rural schools. Education.
Maddy summarySD 1802 strengthens wage theft protections by requiring employers to provide new written wage notices to employees within 10 days of hire, detailing pay rates, benefits, and company details. It establishes joint liability for lead contractors, labor contractors, and subcontractors when wage theft occurs, meaning all can be held responsible. The Attorney General gains expanded power to file civil actions for unpaid wages, seeking triple damages and attorney fees, and can pursue injunctive relief. The bill also ensures unemployment benefits are calculated as if wages were properly paid when wage theft is proven during the benefit period. It directly affects employers, contractors, and employees in Massachusetts.