Maddy summaryThis bill creates a dedicated PFAS Remediation Trust Fund to help Massachusetts communities address contamination in drinking water, groundwater, soil, and other environmental media. The fund will be financed through recovered amounts from lawsuits or settlements against manufacturers and sellers of PFAS-containing products, along with other designated transfers and donations. Expenditures from the fund will prioritize vulnerable environmental justice populations and can be used to provide grants to municipalities, counties, and health boards for remediation projects, treatment systems, and private well assistance. The law also establishes rules requiring grant recipients to repay the fund if they later recover costs from liable third parties and prohibits funding for projects caused by the applicant's own negligence.
Rep. Marcus Vaughn
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance plans in Massachusetts to cover colorectal cancer screening for all insured individuals starting at age 45. It mandates that these screenings, which include various tests like colonoscopies and flexible sigmoidoscopy, be provided without any co-pays, deductibles, or other out-of-pocket costs. The law applies to employees of the state, private health insurance policies, and hospital service plans, ensuring broad access to early detection services. By removing financial barriers, the legislation aims to facilitate regular screening for colorectal cancer in adults under 50.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to increase the sales tax rate on cider from six percent to eight and a half percent. The change directly affects consumers purchasing cider in Massachusetts by raising the cost of the product. By amending Section 1 of Chapter 138 of the General Laws, the legislation updates the statutory tax percentage to align with the proposed rate.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires insurance companies in Massachusetts to cover autism-related benefits for dependents of policyholders, regardless of the dependent's age. It mandates that various types of health plans, including group policies, hospital service agreements, and health maintenance contracts, must include these specific coverage provisions. The legislation also updates the legal definition of an "eligible dependent" to ensure that children with autism spectrum disorders remain covered by their parents' insurance plans even after turning twenty-six. These changes apply to policies delivered, issued, or renewed within the state, with exceptions for stand-alone dental services and government programs like Medicare.
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.
By Representative Vaughn of Wrentham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2678) of Marcus S. Vaughn and Rebecca L. Rausch (by vote of the town) that the police chief of the town of Wrentham be exempt from the civil service law. Public Service. [Local Approval Received.]
By Representative Vaughn of Wrentham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2679) of Marcus S. Vaughn and Rebecca L. Rausch (by vote of the town) that the deputy police chief of the town of Wrentham be exempt from the civil service law. Public Service. [Local Approval Received.]
By Representative Kassner of Hamilton, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Kristin E. Kassner and Samantha Montaño relative to insurance coverage of hearing aids. Financial Services.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a task force to review state requirements placed on public schools and districts that are not fully funded by the state. The group will consist of 11 members, including education committee chairs, legislative leaders, the commissioner of education, and representatives from various school organizations. The task force will identify existing laws and reporting rules, suggest ways to simplify or remove unfunded mandates, and calculate the total estimated cost these requirements impose on local municipalities. It must hold at least one public hearing and submit a final report with its findings and recommendations within 12 months of the first meeting.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to require public hearings before schools change mascots or other branding that references specific people, groups, races, or identities. It mandates that the school district holding the hearing must invite at least one representative of the referenced group to attend and speak on the proposed change. Additionally, the state commissioner is tasked with creating rules to ensure these hearings are conducted properly. The legislation directly affects school districts in Massachusetts that are considering updates to their school names, logos, or team identifiers.