Rep. James Arena-DeRosa

Maddy summaryThis bill requires state and local agencies to evaluate whether new rules or regulations could negatively affect commercial farms in Massachusetts before they are finalized. State agencies must publish a written assessment of potential impacts and submit detailed findings to relevant legislative committees at least 45 days before the rule takes effect, while local governments must complete a specific form 90 days prior to enactment. If an assessment shows a proposed rule would cost a farm more than $500 annually or require over 20 extra hours of labor, the findings must be sent to the state board of agriculture for mitigation suggestions before the rule is issued. The law includes an exception for emergency health and safety measures that are set to expire within six months, ensuring that urgent protections for public safety are not delayed.

Senate, January 29, 2024 --The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 178) of Anne M. Gobi for legislation relative to transparency in credit card fees; (accompanied by bill, House, No. 260) of Gerard J. Cassidy relative to credit card surcharges; and (accompanied by bill, House, No. 306) of Colleen M. Garry relative to credit card surcharges, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2565).

Senate, January 29, 2024 --The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 175) of Cindy F. Friedman, Joanne M. Comerford, Carmine Lawrence Gentile, Lydia Edwards and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to the disclosure of toxic chemicals in children’s products; and (accompanied by bill, House, No. 318) of James K. Hawkins and others for legislation to direct the Department of Environmental Protection to publish a toxic chemicals of concern consumer products list, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2564).

Senate, January 29, 2024 --The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 213) of Michael F. Rush for legislation relative to the licensure of appraisers; (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 214) of Michael F. Rush and Paul McMurtry for legislation relative to the licensure of appraisers; and (accompanied by bill, House, No. 262) of Tackey Chan, Paul R. Feeney and others relative to the licensure of appraisers, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2568).

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to create and publish a list of toxic chemicals of concern found in consumer products intended for children. The legislation defines "children" as individuals aged 12 and under and includes a wide range of items such as toys, clothing, cosmetics, car seats, and artificial turf fields. To determine which chemicals are harmful, the law requires the department to consult with recognized authoritative bodies like the EPA and the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Once the list is compiled, it will be made available to the public to inform parents and consumers about potential health risks in products used by young people.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to require businesses that charge extra fees for credit card use to display these surcharges on a sign at their location. The rule applies to any seller who imposes a fee when a customer chooses to pay with a credit card instead of cash, check, or similar methods. By mandating clear signage, the legislation aims to ensure customers are informed about additional costs before completing a transaction. The change focuses solely on the requirement for visible notification and does not alter the ability of merchants to charge such fees.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new Auto Damage Appraiser Licensing Board within the Division of Occupational Licensure to regulate professionals who assess vehicle damage. The board will consist of seven members appointed from the auto body repair industry, insurance companies, the Attorney General's office, and consumer representatives, with one member serving as chair. Key provisions include limiting members to two consecutive three-year terms and requiring vacancies to be filled within 60 days. The legislation aims to create a structured oversight body specifically for auto damage appraisers in Massachusetts.