Rep. Jack Lewis

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all schools and child care centers in Massachusetts to test their drinking water outlets annually for lead levels exceeding one part per billion. It mandates that testing be conducted by certified laboratories using specific methods and establishes a six-month deadline for facilities that have not previously participated in the state's assistance program. The legislation also defines key terms such as "certified point-of-use filter" and "drinking water outlet" to ensure clarity in compliance. Additionally, the act gives the Department of Environmental Protection the authority to adjust testing frequency on a case-by-case basis when necessary for public health.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the use of elephants, big cats, primates, giraffes, and bears in traveling animal acts, circuses, and similar mobile performances within Massachusetts. It directly affects owners and operators of traveling exhibits by banning the participation of these specific animals in events where they are transported between locations for entertainment purposes. The law includes an exemption for permanent institutions like zoos, provided the animals are not moved specifically for the traveling act. Violations of this new rule can result in civil penalties ranging from $500 to $10,000 for each animal involved.

Maddy summaryThis bill aims to improve early education and care in Massachusetts by making services more affordable, accessible, and high-quality for children and their families. It seeks to support child development and strengthen the state's economy by expanding access to these essential services. The legislation outlines specific goals to enhance the quality of care and reduce costs, though the provided text does not detail the exact funding mechanisms or implementation steps.

Maddy summaryThis bill aims to improve early education and care in Massachusetts by exempting providers from certain price limits and clarifying who qualifies as a caregiver. It removes restrictions that cap the fees providers can charge, allowing them to set their own rates under specific contracts, while also defining "caregivers" to include guardians and non-resident supervisors. Additionally, the legislation establishes a new definition for "high needs" to identify children and families requiring extra support due to factors like disabilities, trauma, or economic hardship. These changes are designed to increase access to quality care and better support the development of young children across the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new drought management task force within the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency to coordinate responses to water shortages. The task force will include representatives from various state agencies, professional organizations, and the public, and it must meet at least quarterly or monthly when a drought is declared. Its primary duties involve collecting data, making recommendations on drought levels and responses, and updating a statewide drought management plan every five years. Additionally, the bill grants the agency secretary the authority to order uniform water conservation measures, such as limiting nonessential outdoor water use, across specific drought-affected regions to protect public health and the environment.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Invasive Species Trust Fund in Massachusetts to support efforts against non-native plants and animals that harm local ecosystems. The fund will be financed through specific state appropriations, donations, investment income, and a voluntary fee added to hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses. Money from the fund can be used to support a state advisory committee, fund research and pilot projects at universities and non-profits, and provide grants to municipalities and other groups for invasive species control. Grants for ongoing maintenance projects may cover up to 75% of costs for a maximum of five years, provided the projects align with a statewide strategic plan. The bill also requires applicants for state assistance to develop management plans that identify the root causes of invasive species problems.

By Representatives Sousa of Framingham and Lewis of Framingham, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Priscila S. Sousa and Jack Patrick Lewis that the commissioner of the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance be authorized to convey certain parcels of land in the city of Framingham to said city. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Maddy summaryThis bill mandates that all public schools in Massachusetts provide free breakfast and lunch to every student attending the school. To help cover these costs, the legislation requires schools to maximize the use of federal funding programs and assigns the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education the responsibility of paying for any remaining expenses not covered by federal reimbursements. Additionally, the bill directs the state to create regulations that help families access supplemental nutrition assistance programs by offering application support or referrals to relevant agencies. These provisions are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2023.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Safe Drinking Water at School Act to mandate annual lead testing for all drinking water outlets in Massachusetts schools and child care centers. It requires facilities to use certified laboratories and specific testing methods to check for lead levels exceeding one part per billion, with a six-month deadline for those previously excluded from the state's assistance program. The legislation defines key terms such as "school" and "drinking water outlet" to ensure clear compliance standards across public, charter, and non-public educational facilities. By updating Chapter 111 of the General Laws, the bill creates a uniform requirement for monitoring water safety to protect student health.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new drought management task force within the state to coordinate efforts for maintaining adequate water supplies during dry periods. The task force will include representatives from various state agencies, professional organizations, and public health experts to assess conditions and recommend drought levels and responses. It also establishes a requirement for a statewide drought management plan that must be reviewed every five years and updated at least every ten years. Additionally, the bill empowers the secretary to enforce uniform water conservation measures, such as limiting nonessential outdoor water use, across all users in affected regions. Local cities and towns are required to fully enforce these conservation restrictions issued by the state secretary.