Rep. Patrick Kearney

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a grant program to help Massachusetts residents with disabilities or their caregivers afford necessary home modifications. Eligible individuals with incomes at or below 120% of the area median income can receive up to 50% of the cost for approved changes, with a maximum grant of $5,000. The program covers specific improvements like zero-step entrances, wider doorways, accessible bathrooms, and medical equipment backups, provided the work meets established accessibility standards. Applicants must submit proof of completed renovations, such as invoices and before-and-after photos, to receive funding. The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission will oversee the program guidelines in consultation with the relevant department.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to require state agencies and food service facilities on state property to stop using single-use plastic items for serving or transporting food. The Department of Environmental Protection, working with the Operational Services Division, will create a list of approved reusable, recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable products by consulting with industry experts and local governments. State agencies and concessionaires must then use only items from this approved list, which will be updated regularly based on specific criteria for durability and recycling viability. The legislation primarily affects government-run cafeterias, restaurants, and mobile food units operating within state facilities.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes new rules for electric foot scooters in Massachusetts by defining them as devices under 100 pounds with a maximum speed of 20 mph. It allows these scooters to be operated on any road where bicycles are permitted, except on limited-access highways where they are explicitly banned, and permits parking on sidewalks without obstructing pedestrians. Operators must follow standard traffic laws, such as staying to the right and yielding to pedestrians, and the scooters must be equipped with brakes and lights when used at night. Additionally, anyone under the age of sixteen operating an electric foot scooter is required to wear protective gear.

By Representative Kearney of Scituate, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Patrick Joseph Kearney relative to eligibility for the emergency housing assistance program. Housing.

By Representative Cruz of Salem, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3243) of Manny Cruz and others relative to tourism and visitation marketing and promotion grants. Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows students, parents, and school staff to bring and use over-the-counter sunscreen on school grounds and at school events without needing a doctor's note. It clarifies that sunscreen is treated differently than prescription medication for this purpose and explicitly states that school personnel are not required to help students apply it. Additionally, the law encourages school districts to promote sun safety education to students.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the use of elephants, big cats, primates, giraffes, and bears in traveling animal acts such as circuses and carnivals across Massachusetts. It specifically bans these animals from participating in performances where they are transported in mobile facilities like trucks or trailers for the purpose of entertainment. The law applies to individuals and businesses but explicitly excludes animals housed at permanent, non-mobile institutions that do not transport the animals for the event. Violations of this new chapter can result in civil penalties ranging from $500 to $10,000 per animal involved, and enforcement is assigned to state and local law enforcement officials.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new crime called drug-induced homicide, which allows prosecutors to charge individuals with up to life in prison if they knowingly distribute Class A controlled substances that result in death. It includes a "Good Samaritan" provision that protects people from prosecution if they seek medical help for an overdose in good faith without intent to defraud. The legislation also establishes a permanent commission made up of various officials and community members to monitor the law's effectiveness, review convictions, and ensure sentencing remains flexible without mandatory minimums. This commission will meet regularly to report its findings and recommendations to state leaders and the judiciary.