Maddy summaryThis bill updates Massachusetts tax lien procedures to provide clearer information and protections for residential property owners facing foreclosure. It requires tax purchasers to notify homeowners within 12 days of buying their tax debt, mandating that notices be sent via certified mail, posted on the property, and written in plain English plus the seven most common languages in the state. The legislation also defines how to calculate "excess equity" for homeowners after a sale and ensures that initial tax demands include warnings about potential property loss and available assistance programs. These changes aim to improve transparency throughout the tax collection process while maintaining the state's ability to recover unpaid taxes.
Rep. Steven Howitt
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes creating a state income tax credit for parents in Massachusetts who pay for their dependent children's college tuition. Under the plan, eligible parents earning less than $100,000 annually could receive a credit of up to $2,500 per child for each year they contribute to tuition costs. The income limit would be adjusted each year based on changes in the consumer price index to maintain its value over time. This measure directly impacts middle-income families by reducing their state tax liability when they spend money on higher education expenses for their dependents.
By Representative Rogers of Cambridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2932) of David M. Rogers and others for legislation to establish a family caregiving tax credit. Revenue.
By Representative Howitt of Seekonk, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2831) of Steven S. Howitt and others relative to Title V income tax credit reform of financial aid for homeowners who have incurred costs for the repair or replacement of failed septic systems. Revenue.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to exempt certain animal medications and supplies from sales tax in Massachusetts. It directly affects pet owners and veterinarians by allowing them to purchase prescription drugs and specific therapeutic items without paying the standard sales tax. The legislation defines these exempt items as drugs dispensed only by licensed veterinarians and supplies that are therapeutic in nature, intended for treating illness or injury, and not meant for repeated use. By amending state tax law, the bill aims to reduce the cost of essential veterinary care for animals.
By Representative Howitt of Seekonk, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2837) of Steven S. Howitt and Michael J. Soter for legislation to provide tax credits to restaurants utilizing reusable utensils, dishes, glasses and bulk condiments. Revenue.
By Representative Roy of Franklin, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3108) of Jeffrey N. Roy and others for legislation to promote American manufacturing by requiring state or municipal agencies or authorities to give preference to materials and goods made in the United States. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
Maddy summaryThis bill aims to improve access to biomarker testing for cancer patients in Massachusetts to help them receive the most appropriate therapy. It requires health insurers to cover the cost of these specific tests without imposing additional restrictions or requiring prior authorization beyond what is already standard for other medical services. The legislation directly affects cancer patients, their families, and health insurance providers by ensuring that necessary diagnostic tools are financially accessible. By removing barriers to testing, the bill seeks to facilitate better treatment decisions based on individual patient biology.
By Representative Ayers of Quincy, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3485) of Bruce J. Ayers, Adam Scanlon and Steven S. Howitt relative to reimbursement for life insurance for members of the Massachusetts National Guard. Veterans and Federal Affairs.
Maddy summaryThis law establishes a mandatory educational diversion program in Massachusetts for minors charged with specific offenses related to possessing or sharing sexual images, commonly known as sexting. The Attorney General will lead the creation of this program in collaboration with various state agencies and community groups, focusing on informing youth about legal penalties, social consequences, and the risks of online image sharing. If a child is charged with these offenses, the court will typically pause legal proceedings to require the completion of this program instead of immediate prosecution, unless the district attorney objects. Successful completion of the program allows the case to be dismissed, while failure to participate results in the case being restored for standard legal processing. Additionally, the bill expands the legal definition of abuse to include "coercive control" and requires schools to teach media literacy skills using materials from the new diversion program.