Rep. Steve Xiarhos

Maddy summarySD 1376 removes the statute of limitations for prosecuting sexual assault and rape cases involving child victims. It allows prosecutors to file charges at any time after the crime occurred, provided the victim was under 18 when the offense happened. The law specifically applies to "indecent assault and battery" and "rape" charges under Chapter 277 of the General Laws. This change ensures these crimes can be prosecuted regardless of when the victim reports the incident or comes forward.

By Representative Jones of North Reading and Senator Tarr, a joint petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Bradley H. Jones, Jr., Bruce E. Tarr and others relative to energy costs, transparency, and sustainability. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.

Maddy summaryHD 275 sets a fixed $250 fee for two specific business filings: the certificate of organization and the annual report. This replaces previous variable fees under Chapter 156C of the General Laws. The bill directly affects small businesses in Massachusetts that must file these documents with the state secretary. The fee change took effect on January 1, 2016, providing a predictable cost for these routine filings. It does not alter other business costs or regulations.

By Representatives Hawkins of Attleboro and Pease of Westfield, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of James K. Hawkins, Kelly W. Pease and others for legislation to designate August 10th as Agent Orange awareness day. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes Barnstable County to transfer specific land in Bourne (at 0 County Road and 100 Dr. Julius Kelley Lane) to the town of Bourne, including a parcel subject to an existing conservation restriction. The town, which holds that conservation restriction (document #978,790), may also assign it to a qualified entity when acquiring the property from the county. The transfer is permitted under Massachusetts constitutional provisions for land conveyances, and the bill takes effect immediately upon passage. This is a procedural land transfer bill affecting only the specified property and its conservation status.

Maddy summaryHD 3374 creates a special commission to study Massachusetts' unemployment insurance system. The commission, made up of 12 members including legislative leaders, state agency secretaries, committee chairs, and business/labor representatives, will evaluate how current policies affect small businesses and economic growth. It must file its findings and draft legislation to improve the system by December 31, 2027. The bill directly establishes this study process but does not change unemployment benefits itself.

Maddy summaryH 4749 establishes a 13-member commission to study financial abuse of Massachusetts elders aged 60+ and develop policy recommendations. The commission includes representatives from both legislative chambers, elder advocacy groups, Councils on Aging, real estate associations, and financial institutions like banks and credit unions. It will specifically examine abusive lending practices, exploitative property transfers, and scams targeting seniors through telemarketing or online channels. The commission must submit a final report with policy proposals to relevant legislative committees by December 31, 2026. This bill creates a study body but does not enact new laws or funding.

By Mr. O'Connor, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1749) of Patrick M. O'Connor and Steven George Xiarhos for legislation relative to emergency response in an active shooter or hostile event situation. Public Safety and Homeland Security.

By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1772) of Bruce E. Tarr and Steven George Xiarhos for legislation relative to implementing a blue alert system in the commonwealth. Public Safety and Homeland Security.

By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1764) of Bruce E. Tarr and Steven George Xiarhos for legislation relative to training police officers as drug recognition experts. Public Safety and Homeland Security.