Maddy summaryThis bill creates a mandatory educational diversion program for teenagers accused of sharing indecent images, commonly known as sexting. Instead of immediately facing criminal charges, eligible students would be required to complete a course that explains the legal penalties, social consequences, and long-term risks associated with posting such images online. The program is designed to be administered by the Attorney General in partnership with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and would be integrated into existing juvenile justice processes. If a student fails to finish the required education, the court can then proceed with standard legal proceedings against them. Additionally, the bill encourages schools to teach media literacy skills to help students better understand and navigate digital content.
Rep. Tackey Chan
Sponsored bills
By Representatives Kane of Shrewsbury and Garlick of Needham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2204) of Hannah Kane, Denise C. Garlick and others relative to accelerating improvements to the local and regional public health system to address disparities in the delivery of public health services. Public Health.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to define disposable menstrual products, such as sanitary napkins and tampons, within the state's education statutes. By adding this definition, the legislation provides a clear legal basis for schools to ensure these items are available to students who need them. The change directly affects educational institutions by clarifying the scope of products that should be accessible in school settings. This measure aims to improve access for menstruating students without altering existing funding or distribution requirements.
By Representatives Nguyen of Andover and Shand of Newburyport, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3095) of Tram T. Nguyen, Dawne Shand and others for legislation to promote diversity on public boards and commissions. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
By Representative Chan of Quincy and Senator Eldridge, a joint petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3003) of Tackey Chan, James B. Eldridge and others for legislation to require that government agencies make certain demographic data available to the public. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
By Representative Chan of Quincy, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2479) of Tackey Chan relative to the application of judicial retirement law. Public Service.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to strengthen financial incentives for breeding thoroughbred horses within the state. It authorizes the Massachusetts Thoroughbred Breeders Association to distribute cash bonuses to breeders and owners based on race performance, while also allowing the association to offer foaling bonuses to mare owners. To qualify for these rewards, the bill establishes specific rules for what counts as a "Massachusetts bred" or "accredited" horse, requiring that foals be born or raised in the state and registered with local authorities. Additionally, the legislation mandates that stallion owners file annual reports detailing breeding activities and limits the association's spending on the program to twelve percent of its annual revenue.
Maddy summaryThis bill extends the authorization for a Suffolk County horse racing facility to operate live races and simulcast betting until July 31, 2024, rather than the previous expiration date of July 31, 2023. The legislation achieves this by amending multiple sections of existing state laws to update the expiration dates and repealing the specific language that set the original 2023 deadline. Additionally, the bill includes provisions ensuring that any simulcast broadcasts comply with federal interstate racing laws and requires approval from the New England Horsemen's Association for races originating from states with different regulatory requirements.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new State Racing Board within the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to oversee live horse racing and simulcasting. The board will consist of three members appointed by the governor, including at least one licensed veterinarian with equine experience, who will be responsible for regulating pari-mutuel wagering and off-track betting. Key provisions establish strict conflict-of-interest rules for board members, require them to have significant administrative experience, and define their duties to administer related laws while serving as a host racing commission. The legislation also updates legal definitions to clarify what constitutes illegal gaming and formally establishes the new board's role in enforcing regulations for racing facilities.