By Representatives O'Day of West Boylston and Philips of Sharon, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2246) of James J. O'Day, Edward R. Philips and others for legislation to authorize attending physicians to prescribe medical aid in dying medication that will end the life of patients in a peaceful manner. Public Health.
March , 2024 -- The committee on Education, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 256) of John J. Cronin, Manny Cruz and John Barrett, III for legislation to create and expand student pathways to success; (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 274) of Paul R. Feeney, Jacob R. Oliveira, Adam Scanlon, Susan Williams Gifford and other members of the General Court for legislation to improve access, opportunity, and capacity in Massachusetts vocational-technical education; (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 297) of Edward J. Kennedy and Joanne M. Comerford for legislation to expand dual enrollment for high school students in Gateway Cities; (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 306) of Jason M. Lewis, Michael O. Moore, Kate Lipper-Garabedian and Patricia D. Jehlen for legislation relative increase student access to career technical education schools and programs which are aligned with regional labor market needs; (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 334) of Jacob R. Oliveira, Jeffrey N. Roy and Michael J. Barrett for legislation to expand high school student access to earn industry recognized credentials; (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 361) of John C. Velis for legislation to expand high school student access to earn industry recognized credentials; and (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 362) of John C. Velis and Kelly W. Pease for legislation to expand dual enrollment for high school students in Gateway Cities, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2664).
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a special commission in Massachusetts to study blockchain technology and cryptocurrency. The commission will consist of 25 members, including state officials, industry representatives, and consumer advocates, who must meet within 90 days to begin their work. Its main task is to investigate how blockchain could be used by government and businesses, examine tax implications for digital assets, and determine the best ways to protect consumers while encouraging responsible adoption. The group will also look at energy usage, regulatory oversight, and barriers that might prevent certain groups from participating in these emerging technologies. Ultimately, the commission will produce a master plan with recommendations for expanding blockchain use in the state.
By Representative Hogan of Stow and Senator Cyr, a joint petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2197) of Kate Hogan, Julian Cyr and others for legislation to protect public health from PFAS. Public Health.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to require that individuals using pesticides containing the herbicide glyphosate must hold a valid license or permit issued by the state department. It applies to both agricultural and non-agricultural uses on any land, meaning homeowners and other non-farmers would need certification to apply these products. Additionally, the legislation mandates that retailers verify a customer's license before selling or supplying glyphosate-containing pesticides and requires these sales to occur on the business premises. Businesses wishing to sell these products must register with the department, pay an annual fee of up to $25, and adhere to specific terms set by the department.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts election law to standardize polling hours for regional school district votes across all towns within those districts. Currently, regional school districts often have varying voting times, but this legislation would require all polls in such districts to open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m. The change directly affects voters in regional school districts who participate in these specific elections, ensuring a uniform voting window regardless of the town they reside in.
By Representatives Lewis of Framingham and Domb of Amherst, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2224) of Jack Patrick Lewis, Mindy Domb and others relative to improving healthcare delivery for underserved residents. Public Health.
Maddy summaryThis bill allows Massachusetts businesses to claim a tax deduction for student loan payments they make on behalf of their employees. Specifically, it permits companies to deduct up to $2,000 per employee for principal payments made toward education debts, provided the employee lives in the state. The legislation defines "education debt" to align with existing state tax definitions and applies the benefit to business corporations filing state taxes. By offering this financial incentive, the bill aims to encourage employers to help workers manage their student loans.
Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor to issue an annual proclamation designating the first Monday in March as COVID-19 Remembrance Day. The legislation is sponsored by multiple state representatives and aims to honor the lives lost and the challenges faced during the pandemic. By establishing this specific date, the bill creates a formal opportunity for the state to acknowledge the impact of the virus on Massachusetts communities. The measure does not change laws or require new funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to remember those affected by the pandemic.
Senate, March 14, 2024 -- Text of the Senate Bill ensuring affordability, readiness and learning for our youth and driving economic development (Senate, No. 2707) (being the text of Senate, No. 2697, printed as amended)
