Rep. Tackey Chan

Maddy summaryThis bill amends a law to include specific Department of Youth Services (DYS) employees in an existing provision. It directly affects DYS staff holding the roles of Assistant Program Director, Program Director, or Casework Manager who have served in those positions for at least 10 years. The change adds these long-serving employees to the list of individuals covered by the law, expanding eligibility for whatever the provision currently provides (e.g., benefits, protections, or procedural rights). The bill makes a technical adjustment to the law's language without creating new programs or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends a section of Massachusetts General Law (Chapter 32) to explicitly include "employees of the department of children and families holding the position of attorney who have been employed in such capacities for 10 years or more" in a legal reference. It directly affects DCF attorneys with 10+ years of service by adding them to the specific list of covered employees in the law. The change is purely procedural, updating the legal language to ensure these attorneys are formally recognized within the existing statutory framework. No new benefits, duties, or policy changes are created by this amendment.

By Representatives Vargas of Haverhill and Garcia of Chelsea, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Andres X. Vargas, Judith A. Garcia and others for legislation to further regulate state and local participation in federal civil immigration enforcement. Public Safety and Homeland Security.

Maddy summaryHD 675 requires statewide education and training programs for commercial building managers (including those at private and non-profit properties) to improve energy efficiency. The bill mandates that energy plans include in-depth training on reducing electricity, gas, and oil use through best practices, new technologies, and monitoring systems, offered both in-person and online. Training must be approved by a five-member advisory committee and funded through a 70/30 split between utility companies (using energy efficiency funds) and attendees (paying no more than 30% of costs). Programs must begin by September 1, 2026, and may use existing offerings like the Building Operators Certificate Program.

Maddy summaryHD 1243 requires private gas and distribution companies to increase transparency when awarding construction contracts over $100,000 for work on public ways. Companies must notify all qualified bidders within two business days of their decision, including the award criteria, bidder score, and winning amount. They must also post the contractor name, project location, and work duration on their website. This applies to all such contracts except single-bid situations or when disclosure would harm law enforcement, public interest, or commercial interests. The state department enforces these requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill extends the deadline for the Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure committee to submit its final report on a specific House document from its original date to May 15, 2026. The change overrides existing House rules that would have required an earlier submission timeline. This procedural adjustment gives the committee additional time to complete its review of the legislative document without altering the content or subject matter of the bill itself.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires candidates for state, county, or municipal office to submit a written affidavit confirming they meet residency requirements by the deadline for filing nomination papers. Anyone challenging a candidate's residency must submit a written challenge with supporting documentation at least 10 days before the candidate can withdraw their bid. Local clerks or the Secretary of State must then require the candidate to provide proof of residency and issue a written decision within 5 days. If the challenge is upheld, the candidate's nomination is withdrawn.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the sale of fur products made from animals raised on fur farms (such as mink or fox) within Massachusetts. It directly affects sellers of new fur products, including retailers and online businesses operating in the state, but excludes used fur items, religious items, and products legally sold under federal law. The law defines "fur product" broadly (covering clothing, accessories, and home goods) but exempts items converted to leather or made from certain animals like sheep or deer. Sellers violating the ban face civil penalties of $500-$5,000 per product, enforced by the Attorney General, with rules to be issued within six months. The law takes effect one year after passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill (HD 671) sets rules for employers using payroll cards to pay wages in Massachusetts. It directly affects employees who receive pay via these cards, requiring employers to: 1) Allow at least one free withdrawal per pay period (up to full net wages), 2) Disclose all card fees upfront (except third-party fees), and 3) Provide free, easy access to check account balances (via phone or online). The law aligns with federal protections under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act to prevent hidden fees and ensure wage access.

Maddy summaryThis bill (H 5095) limits how far in advance landlords can require tenants to sign new leases. It prohibits landlords or their agents from demanding lease agreements more than four months before the current lease ends. The law directly affects renters and residential landlords in Massachusetts by preventing long-term lease commitments that restrict tenant flexibility. The key provision is a clear, time-based restriction on lease signing timelines.