Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits businesses from charging unconscionably excessive prices for essential health-related items, such as masks, disinfectants, and over-the-counter medications, during a declared public health emergency in Massachusetts. It defines a price as excessive if it rises more than fifteen percent above the cost charged immediately before the emergency, unless the seller can prove that out-of-control costs forced the increase. To enforce these rules, the Attorney General or District Attorney can seek court orders to stop violations and impose civil penalties of up to twenty-five thousand dollars per offense, along with the forfeiture of profits from the illegal transactions. The law applies to all sellers, including manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers, and takes effect immediately upon passage.
Rep. Mike Soter
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance carriers in Massachusetts to reimburse healthcare providers for 65% of uncollected patient co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles. To qualify for this reimbursement, providers must make reasonable collection efforts, such as phone calls and letters, and submit annual requests for claims where the unpaid amount is at least $250 per service. The legislation defines these financial responsibilities clearly and mandates that insurers complete audits and payments within 120 days of receiving a valid request. Ultimately, the law shifts a portion of the financial burden for unpaid patient costs from providers to insurance companies.
Maddy summaryThis bill aims to improve school safety in Massachusetts by requiring cities and towns to create a special phone line for reporting threats to schools. It mandates that participating municipalities assign a school resource officer to every school building during regular hours and provides state assistance for funding physical security upgrades like hardened locks and surveillance systems. Additionally, the legislation requires school districts to implement specific training for students and staff on how to respond to active shooter situations, along with regular safety audits. Districts must also submit annual reports on their safety policies and activities to state agencies, while keeping specific security plans confidential to protect school safety.
By Representatives Scanlon of North Attleborough and Arriaga of Chicopee, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3532) of Adam Scanlon, Shirley B. Arriaga and others relative to emergency medical technician certification of veterans and military medics. Veterans and Federal Affairs.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Board of Registration for hazardous waste site cleanup professionals within the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. The board will consist of 11 members, including the state's environmental commissioner and 10 individuals appointed by the governor from diverse backgrounds such as licensed engineers, bankers, homebuilders, and environmental advocates. These members, who serve without pay for four-year terms, will oversee the registration and regulation of professionals involved in cleaning up contaminated sites. Additionally, the legislation requires the current board members to be removed and replaced with new appointees who meet the specific qualifications outlined in the act.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new fund to support retired police dogs in Massachusetts. The fund will be managed by the secretary of the executive office of public safety and security and will be financed through state appropriations, grants, gifts, and investment earnings. Money from the fund will be given directly to non-profit organizations within the state to cover the care and medical needs of these retired animals, and the secretary must ensure the funds are used by reputable groups. Each year, the fund administrator must submit a report detailing how much money was received, spent, and remaining to the state legislature and relevant committees.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes amending Massachusetts law to establish a specific minimum wage for young workers under 18 who are in a training period. It directly affects minors under 18 who work 20 hours or less per week and require a work permit, allowing them to earn at least $10 per hour for their first 120 hours with a new employer. The legislation creates a defined training period of up to 120 hours where these specific youth workers are exempt from the standard minimum wage requirements that would otherwise apply.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to require employers to verify the employment eligibility of their employees using the federal E-Verify system. It defines specific terms such as "employer," "employee," and "independent contractor" to clarify who must comply with the verification mandate. The legislation also prohibits employers from intentionally or knowingly hiring unauthorized aliens and establishes a complaint process for reporting violations without requiring the complainant to provide their own social security number or notarize the form.
By Representative Giannino of Revere, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2536) of Jessica Ann Giannino and others relative to disability pensions for violent crimes committed against certain public employees. Public Service.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to expand health insurance coverage for specific therapies addressing cognitive deficits caused by acquired brain injuries. It directly affects individuals suffering from conditions such as strokes or traumatic brain injuries by defining key treatment types like cognitive rehabilitation and neurobehavioral therapy. The legislation establishes clear definitions for these services to ensure they are recognized as medically necessary under existing insurance frameworks. Additionally, it includes provisions for community reintegration services aimed at helping patients safely return to work, school, and independent living.