Rep. Chris Worrell

Maddy summaryHD 3193 modifies Massachusetts' property transfer tax by creating graduated rates for home sales over $250,000. For sales between $250,000-$500,000, the tax rate increases to 1.1x the existing rate; higher tiers apply for sales exceeding $500,000, $1 million, and $2 million. The bill directly affects sellers of higher-value homes by increasing their tax burden, with all revenue from these higher rates required to fund housing initiatives. Specifically, the tax revenue must be split equally between housing crisis programs and Affordable Housing Act initiatives established under Chapter 150 of the 2024 Acts. (Note: The "existing rate" referenced is not specified in the bill text.)

By Representative Biele of Boston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 325) of David Biele and others relative to the sale of alcoholic beverages at certain venues. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.

By Ms. Jehlen, a petition (accompanied by bill) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Patricia D. Jehlen, Rebecca L. Rausch, James K. Hawkins, Jason M. Lewis and other members of the General Court for legislation to ensure law enforcement identification for public safety. The Judiciary.

By Representatives Worrell of Boston and Holmes of Boston, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Christopher J. Worrell for legislation to designate the Dorchester division of the Boston Municipal Court as Judge Leslie E. Harris courthouse. The Judiciary.

Maddy summaryHD 2634 allocates $2.2 billion to modernize Massachusetts' water infrastructure, primarily through $2 billion for expanding the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority's service area to support housing development and address PFAS-contaminated water supplies. The bill prioritizes funding for debt relief to improve affordability in struggling communities, grants for sewer and water upgrades tied to housing projects, and research on PFAS and biosolids. It also establishes a commission to review water transfer laws for housing development and requires annual reports on expansion projects and barriers. The funding directly affects municipalities, water utilities, and communities with water quality issues, with specific targets for housing-related infrastructure.

Maddy summaryHD 3157 requires new multifamily construction projects (using less than 3,000 gallons of water daily) in Massachusetts to incorporate greywater recycling systems. It defines greywater as wastewater from showers, sinks, and laundry (excluding toilet or kitchen sink waste), and establishes two system tiers: Tier 1 for single-family homes under 400 gallons per day (for toilet flushing or irrigation), and Tier 2 for other buildings. Key provisions mandate safe system design (avoiding human/pet contact, 24-hour storage limits, and diversion to sewer during backups), while requiring all systems to connect to existing public or on-site sewer systems. The law aims to promote water conservation through regulated reuse, applying to new multifamily projects and private residential systems meeting specific flow and safety standards.

Maddy summaryHD 458 amends Boston's fire department cadet program by reducing the required service time from 2 years to 1 year in two key areas. It allows cadets to not be terminated for age after completing 1 year of service (Section 1), and enables those with 1 year of service to be appointed to the lowest fire force grade without an eligible list, provided they meet specific criteria (Section 2). The bill directly affects Boston fire cadets seeking permanent positions within the city's fire department. This is a procedural adjustment to eligibility requirements, with no new programs or funding introduced. (Bill HD 458, Section 1 and 2)

Maddy summaryThis bill requires home care agencies providing state-funded home care services to enter into labor peace agreements with labor organizations representing their workers, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery. Agencies must submit regular attestations to the Department of Elder Affairs detailing their labor relations status, including whether agreements exist, negotiations are underway, or no union representation is sought. Failure to comply may result in contract termination and a four-year ban on future state contracts for repeated violations. The policy directly affects home care agencies, workers, and the state's home care program participants.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a permit system for recovery housing (sober homes) in Massachusetts, requiring operators to apply for a "determination of need permit" from the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services. It prohibits new recovery housing in designated "impacted communities" (neighborhoods meeting specific criteria like low income, high minority populations, or language barriers). Operators must submit detailed information including location, staff details, rules, and proof that only residents with disabilities (as defined by law) will reside there. Existing recovery housing must apply for permits by June 30, 2024, and new operators must obtain permits before opening. The bill aims to regulate recovery housing placement while prioritizing environmental justice communities.

Maddy summaryH 1072 would require the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs to conduct environmental audits in Black communities designated as environmental justice neighborhoods. These audits would assess pollution levels and potential health risks in these areas, focusing on neighborhoods facing disproportionate environmental burdens. The resulting data would help identify specific environmental disparities and inform future state actions to address them.