Maddy summaryHD 982 requires all Massachusetts state-owned public buildings (like government offices or libraries) that are newly built, reconstructed, or remodeled after January 1, 2025, to install at least one universal changing station in public restrooms. These stations must support up to 350 pounds, measure at least 70 inches long by 30 inches wide, have adjustable height (17-38 inches), include safety rails, and be located in private or enclosed areas. The bill mandates clear signage for location and operation, and compliance with accessibility standards, while allowing exemptions for historic properties or if installation costs exceed $10,000. It directly affects state building owners and contractors planning new construction or renovations after 2025.
Rep. Jim Arciero
Sponsored bills
By Representatives Livingstone of Boston and Finn of West Springfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 261) of Jay D. Livingstone, Michael J. Finn and others relative to supported decision-making agreements for certain adults with disabilities. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
Maddy summaryH 4884 extends the deadline for the House Committee on Transportation to report on nine specific House documents (numbered 3636, 3680, 3735, 3755, 3756, 3788, 4166, 4179, and 4402) until Wednesday, March 18, 2026. This procedural bill overrides the standard House Rule 27 deadline, granting the committee additional time to finalize its report on these documents. It directly affects the Transportation Committee and the legislative documents listed, without changing policy or impacting the public. The bill was adopted on December 24, 2025, after committee approval and Rules suspension.
The committee on Education to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 428) of Jacob R. Oliveira, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., Lindsay N. Sabadosa, David Paul Linsky and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to school library standards, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2865).
Maddy summaryHD 3728 requires the Massachusetts Department of Highways to install two "988 Suicide Prevention" signs on every bridge under its jurisdiction, one at each end. The signs must be clearly readable to pedestrians and drivers and include the 988 hotline number as a resource for those in crisis. This policy directly affects bridge users across the Commonwealth by making suicide prevention resources immediately visible. The Department of Highways must complete all installations within one year of the bill's passage.
Maddy summaryThis bill changes how vanity license plate fees are charged in the state. It requires the motor vehicle office to collect only one special fee for the initial vanity plate registration, and all future renewals must cost the same as standard license plates. This affects drivers who choose vanity plates, eliminating ongoing higher fees for renewals. The law takes effect January 1st after passing.
By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 428) of Jacob R. Oliveira, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., Lindsay N. Sabadosa, David Paul Linsky and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to school library standards. Education.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes new regulations for employers using artificial intelligence in employment decisions within Massachusetts. It defines key terms like "Automated Decision System" (ADS) as any AI tool making hiring, promotion, or workplace decisions, and restricts how employers can collect or use sensitive employee data - including biometrics, health information, and productivity tracking. Employers must disclose ADS use and obtain consent for certain data collection, while prohibiting the use of AI tools for decisions affecting wages, benefits, or job access without transparency. The law directly affects all Massachusetts employers and workers whose data is processed by such systems.
Maddy summaryH 4806 creates a new Auto Damage Appraiser Licensing Board within the Division of Occupational Licensure. The board will consist of seven members: four appointed by the governor (two from auto body repair, two from insurance), two appointed by the Attorney General (one from the AG's office, one from the industry), and one neutral chair appointed by the licensing commissioner. This board will oversee the licensing and regulation of auto damage appraisers in Massachusetts. The bill establishes specific appointment rules, including term limits and a requirement for balanced industry representation.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires state-aided public housing for the elderly to allow pet ownership under specific, non-discriminatory rules. It prohibits outright bans on dogs (including breed-based restrictions), declawing, or evictions solely for having a pet, while permitting reasonable requirements like pet deposits (max $160 or one month’s rent), spaying/neutering, and emergency care plans. Housing authorities must develop written policies for different housing types (apartments, single-family homes, etc.) and establish pet committees for grievance handling. An advisory group will help update regulations and create guidance for implementing these policies, with violations subject to penalties under existing law.