Rep. Orlando Ramos

Maddy summaryThis bill requires that workers on government-subsidized construction projects in Massachusetts receive wages at least equal to the rates set by the state commissioner. It specifically applies to projects funded through various tax incentives, such as tax increment financing plans, historic rehabilitation tax credits, and housing development programs. The law mandates that employers submit weekly certified payroll reports to the granting authority and allows any interested party to request copies of these records for inspection. By tying wage standards to existing tax relief mechanisms, the measure aims to ensure fair compensation for mechanics, laborers, and apprentices on publicly supported building work.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new Micro and Minority Business Strategy Department within the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development to specifically support small and minority-owned enterprises. The department will be funded using 50% of the annual community empowerment reinvestment grant program and will develop a unique economic strategy for gateway communities. A nine-member board will oversee the department, with six members appointed by the governor to represent micro business owners, minority business owners, and residents of gateway communities. The legislation defines micro-businesses as entities with 10 or fewer employees and annual gross income under $250,000, while minority-owned businesses are those beneficially owned by minority individuals.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to increase the minimum wage rates paid to care workers within Massachusetts social service programs. It achieves this by amending existing state laws to mandate higher payment standards for these specific employees. The change directly affects agencies and organizations that currently hire care workers under these programs, ensuring they receive enhanced compensation.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to create a new state system called the Massachusetts Health Care Trust to provide universal health coverage for all residents. It establishes a Board of Trustees and an Executive Director to manage the program, which is designed to offer affordable and equitable access to medical services for everyone in the Commonwealth. The legislation amends existing state laws to add this new chapter, effectively replacing or supplementing the current insurance model with a single-payer approach.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a temporary advisory committee to study how well communities across Massachusetts can access fresh food. The committee will investigate why some areas lack grocery stores, assess the health effects of this gap, and propose solutions like new laws, financial incentives, or better transportation options. Its members will include state officials, industry representatives, and nonprofit leaders, and they must submit their findings and draft legislation within 18 months. Once the report is filed, the committee will disband.

By Representative Ramos of Springfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3105) of Orlando Ramos for legislation to designate the song, “Massachusetts”, words and music by Montenia, as the official jazz song of the Commonwealth. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

By Representative Ramos of Springfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2642) of Orlando Ramos relative to retirement systems and pensions for correctional officers. Public Service.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows owners of antique vehicles in Massachusetts that are 25 years or older to request corrections to odometer readings on their vehicle titles. It establishes a process where owners can submit an appeal with supporting documentation, such as an affidavit, to prove that the mileage recorded on their title was incorrect. If the registrar verifies the error, they will issue a new certificate of title reflecting the accurate mileage. The legislation directly impacts owners of older cars who have discovered discrepancies in their official vehicle records.

By Representative González of Springfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2813) of Carlos González and others for legislation to establish voluntary contribution check-off boxes on state tax returns to provide financial assistance to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. Revenue.

Senate, March 14, 2024 -- Text of the Senate Bill ensuring affordability, readiness and learning for our youth and driving economic development (Senate, No. 2707) (being the text of Senate, No. 2697, printed as amended)