Maddy summaryThis bill updates Massachusetts tax lien procedures to provide clearer information and protections for residential property owners facing foreclosure. It requires tax purchasers to notify homeowners within 12 days of buying their tax debt, mandating that notices be sent via certified mail, posted on the property, and written in plain English plus the seven most common languages in the state. The legislation also defines how to calculate "excess equity" for homeowners after a sale and ensures that initial tax demands include warnings about potential property loss and available assistance programs. These changes aim to improve transparency throughout the tax collection process while maintaining the state's ability to recover unpaid taxes.
Rep. Jack Lewis
Sponsored bills
By Representative Garlick of Needham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3040) of Denise C. Garlick and others relative to providing for hybrid access to public meetings. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
By Representative Garballey of Arlington, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2802) of Sean Garballey and others relative to rental housing deleading income tax credit. Revenue.
By Representative Rogers of Cambridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2932) of David M. Rogers and others for legislation to establish a family caregiving tax credit. Revenue.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts state law to officially establish Indigenous Peoples Day, observed annually on the second Monday in October. It directs the governor to issue a yearly proclamation recommending that schools and communities hold appropriate exercises to honor Indigenous history, cultures, and resilience. The legislation specifically requires these observances to acknowledge the history of genocide and discrimination faced by Indigenous peoples while celebrating their continued existence. Directly affecting the state's executive branch and public institutions, the bill formalizes a day of recognition and education within the state calendar.
Maddy summaryThis bill increases taxes on cigarettes and tobacco products in Massachusetts to raise revenue and discourage youth smoking. It raises the excise tax on cigarettes to 200.5 mills plus any shortfall compared to the federal rate, while also imposing an 80% tax on cigars and smoking tobacco based on their wholesale price. The legislation requires manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers to file detailed inventory reports and pay an additional fee on existing stock if they were not previously taxed at the new higher rates. These changes directly affect businesses involved in the sale and distribution of tobacco within the state.
Maddy summaryThis bill updates Massachusetts state law to require most public meetings to be held as hybrid events, allowing citizens to attend both in person and online. It mandates that meeting notices be posted at least 48 hours in advance on official websites and in public buildings, including details on how to join remotely. The legislation defines hybrid meetings as those conducted simultaneously in a physical location and via internet technology, while also establishing specific rules for emergency situations and hardship waivers.
By Representative Roy of Franklin, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3108) of Jeffrey N. Roy and others for legislation to promote American manufacturing by requiring state or municipal agencies or authorities to give preference to materials and goods made in the United States. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a moratorium on the construction and expansion of jails and prisons in Massachusetts. It directly affects state and public agencies by prohibiting them from building new facilities, increasing the capacity of existing ones, or converting other buildings for incarceration purposes. The law also restricts renovations and repairs that would result in increased bed counts, while still allowing necessary maintenance and code compliance work. These restrictions will remain in effect for five years after the bill takes force.
Senate, June 13, 2024The committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1979) of Joanne M. Comerford, Jason M. Lewis, Michael J. Barrett, Rebecca L. Rausch and other members of the General Court for legislation to establish a jail and prison construction moratorium, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2821).