Rep. Jack Lewis

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes an amendment to the Massachusetts Constitution to allow public officials who decline taking a traditional oath to instead make a solemn affirmation. The key provision requires that any affirmation omit the phrase "So help me God" and replace it with "This I do under the pains and penalties of perjury." The change also directs that the word "swear" be removed from the standard text and replaced with "affirm" for those choosing this alternative. This update would directly affect any state employee or elected official who objects to swearing an oath on religious or personal grounds.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates animal welfare laws to require department employees and contractors to report suspected animal cruelty, abuse, or neglect to investigators within two working days, with immediate phone reporting for urgent cases. It protects those who make reports in good faith from legal liability while clarifying that the department itself is not obligated to conduct investigations. Additionally, the legislation allows child welfare officials to request behavior assessments and veterinary records from foster or pre-adoptive homes to ensure child safety, while explicitly prohibiting placement denials based solely on a dog's breed.

By Representatives Lewis of Framingham and Schmid of Westport, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Jack Patrick Lewis and Paul A. Schmid, III for legislation to designate a certain bridge in the town of Ashland as the Harold Wadhams Gates memorial bridge. Transportation.

Senate, January 4, 2024 -- Text of the Senate Bill expanding wheelchair warranty protections for consumers with disabilities (Senate, No. 2546) (being the text of Senate, No. 2541, printed as amended)

By Representative Garlick of Needham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2330) of Denise C. Garlick and others relative to providing protections for health care employees who are victims of violence or assault and battery. Public Safety and Homeland Security.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health care employers in Massachusetts to create and enforce programs aimed at preventing workplace violence. To achieve this, facilities must conduct annual risk assessments in cooperation with employees and labor unions to identify specific dangers, such as working in public areas or guarding property. The legislation defines workplace violence to include unpermitted touching, attempts to use physical force, or threatening behavior that causes fear of future harm. These measures apply to a wide range of settings, including hospitals and state correctional facilities, while explicitly excluding certain outpatient services like clinics and dialysis centers.

Maddy summaryThis law, known as Ollie's Law, strengthens regulations for commercial kennels and boarding facilities to improve animal safety and public oversight. It requires these businesses to obtain licenses that are contingent on passing inspections, limits the number of animals allowed based on facility capacity, and mandates annual reviews of license fees and terms. The bill also establishes a formal process for citizens to petition local officials if a kennel causes a nuisance, such as excessive barking, and requires the state to create detailed rules covering staff training, injury reporting, and emergency planning. Additionally, kennels must maintain records of all dogs in their care and face specific fines for operating without a license or after a license has been revoked.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes legal protections for workers employed by transportation and delivery network companies in Massachusetts, such as ride-share and food delivery drivers. It mandates that these workers be presumed to be employees of their companies, granting them the same wage, hour, and benefit rights as other workers in the state. Additionally, the legislation updates regulations to ensure these companies provide safe and reliable services while remaining accountable to consumers and the community.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new chapter in Massachusetts law to allow rideshare drivers to form organizations and negotiate with companies to improve industry-wide working conditions. It aims to address issues like pay, health coverage, and scheduling by enabling collective bargaining between drivers and digital transportation platforms. The legislation authorizes the state to oversee these negotiations and approve recommendations that raise standards for workers in the digital marketplace.

By Representative Fernandes of Falmouth, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2516) of Dylan A. Fernandes and Angelo L. D'Emilia relative to disability pensions for violent crimes committed against certain public employees. Public Service.