Maddy summaryThis bill requires all public schools to maintain a stock of non-patient-specific epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPens) for emergency use in treating severe allergic reactions in any student. Schools must store the auto-injectors in accessible locations, ensure adequate quantities based on student population, and train staff on proper administration, including using dose calculation tools. The Department of Public Health will establish regulations for storage, training, and regular inventory checks to monitor expiration dates. School staff who administer epinephrine in good faith during an emergency are protected from civil liability, and the cost will be covered by a surcharge on insurance payors as defined by existing law.
Rep. John Marsi
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill requires all Massachusetts schools to maintain a stock supply of non-patient-specific epinephrine auto-injectors for immediate use during severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). It mandates schools to store the medication in accessible locations, determine appropriate quantities based on student population, train authorized staff, and regularly check expiration dates. The law also provides legal immunity for school staff who administer epinephrine in good faith during emergencies, protecting them and their school districts from civil liability. Additionally, the health and education departments must seek federal funding or free epinephrine from pharmaceutical companies to support implementation.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates special license plates for Cold War veterans, specifically those who honorably served during the Cold War era (September 2, 1945, to December 26, 1991). Veterans of private passenger vehicles and motorcycles can apply for plates displaying "COLD WAR VETERAN" on the left side, provided they submit satisfactory proof of service. A $20 annual fee is required in addition to standard registration costs, and the plates do not apply to motorized bicycles.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires all Massachusetts schools (public and private) serving minors to adopt and implement a formal abuse prevention policy defining inappropriate conduct between staff and students. It mandates biennial training for school staff on recognizing, preventing, and reporting sexual misconduct - including behaviors like romantic invitations or suggestive comments - and provides age-appropriate education for students on healthy boundaries, recognizing risks, and reporting concerns. The policy must be created by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in consultation with child advocacy agencies and reviewed every five years. Schools must maintain training records and make the policy publicly available online. The law directly affects all schools, staff members, and students in Massachusetts.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires all Massachusetts schools (public, private, charter, and religious) to adopt formal abuse prevention policies and implement specific safety measures. It mandates biennial training for school staff on recognizing, preventing, and reporting abuse or sexual misconduct, and requires age-appropriate student education on boundaries, healthy relationships, and reporting concerns. Schools must also conduct thorough background checks on applicants for positions involving direct student contact, including verifying employment history and any past investigations into misconduct allegations. The bill directly affects educators, school staff, and students by establishing standardized safety protocols and reporting procedures across all school settings.
By Mr. Moore, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 165) of Michael O. Moore, Hannah Kane, David Paul Linsky, Colleen M. Garry and others for legislation to protect individuals with disabilities in MassHealth day habilitation programs. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
By Ms. Comerford, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 311) of Joanne M. Comerford, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., Adam Gomez, Jacob R. Oliveira and other members of the General Court for legislation to establish farm to school grants to promote healthy eating and strengthen the agricultural economy. Education.
By Mr. Velis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 460) of John C. Velis and Bradley H. Jones, Jr. for legislation to establish an elementary and secondary school robotics grant program. Education.
By Representatives Finn of West Springfield and Garballey of Arlington, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 232) of Michael J. Finn, Norman J. Orrall and others relative to individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
Maddy summaryThis bill (H 4487) updates terminology across Massachusetts state law to replace outdated terms like "handicapped," "disabled," and "mentally retarded" with more respectful and current language such as "persons with disabilities" and "intellectual or developmental disability." It amends 33 sections of the General Laws, including provisions related to employment weeks, veteran benefits, healthcare, and community services, to consistently use inclusive terminology. The bill directly affects how state laws reference these communities but does not create new programs or change existing policies. It was reported favorably by the Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities committee.