Sen. Paul Feeney

Maddy summaryThis bill clarifies that libraries and library friends groups may sell used books and other items to raise funds, with all proceeds required to be used directly for library purposes. It directly affects public libraries and affiliated community groups that organize fundraising sales. The key provision amends existing law to explicitly permit these sales while ensuring funds support library operations, removing ambiguity about allowable uses of the revenue. The change is procedural, focusing on defining permissible fundraising activities within existing library funding frameworks.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SD 2329) prohibits publishers from including contract terms that prevent libraries from sharing license details with others or compromise patron privacy. It also establishes a special commission to study digital resource costs, patron privacy concerns, and access challenges in public libraries. The commission will examine how digital licensing differs from print materials, research privacy practices, and compare approaches used by other states. Its findings and recommendations - due by October 2025 - aim to support library sustainability, improve public access to digital resources, and protect user data. The bill directly affects public libraries, publishers, and library patrons in Massachusetts.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs Massachusetts' Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to conduct a noise study along Interstate-495 in Foxborough, specifically near the South Grove and Grove Street neighborhoods. The study, to be performed by a MassDOT-acoustical engineer, will measure existing traffic noise levels adjacent to these residential areas. Results and recommendations must be submitted to legislative leaders by June 1, 2026. The resolution directly affects residents in the South Grove neighborhood who may experience highway noise impacts.

Maddy summaryThis bill mandates a study by Massachusetts' health policy commission on the mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic specifically on frontline, direct care nurses. The study will examine pandemic-related trauma, identify current mental health resources available to nurses, and recommend improvements to support their well-being. It requires input from nurses, healthcare providers, mental health experts, and relevant state agencies. The commission must submit a final report with findings and legislative recommendations by December 31, 2026. The bill does not create new programs or funding but focuses on gathering data to inform future policy.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a tuition grant program for public librarians in Massachusetts. It provides full tuition coverage at Massachusetts colleges or participating New England schools for librarians pursuing a Master of Library Science degree. The Board of Higher Education will set eligibility rules based on academic and professional criteria, then award grants to qualifying librarians from each public library. The program directly affects current public library staff seeking advanced library science education within the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs Massachusetts' transportation department to form a working group within 90 days to study reopening a visitor information center on I-95 in Mansfield (Northern Bristol County). The group must analyze removing debris, improving safety/accessibility, adding EV charging stations, redesigning the facility, and creating staffing plans to promote tourism and local businesses. The study must cover costs, commercial uses like tourism ads, and visitor tracking, with a final report due by June 1, 2026. It does not fund or immediately reopen the center but sets a process for future action. The bill directly affects travelers using I-95 and regional tourism businesses seeking promotion.

By Mr. Collins, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2531) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Nick Collins, Bruce E. Tarr, Patrick M. O'Connor, Sal N. DiDomenico and other members of the Senate for legislation relative to assault and battery by means of bodily substance upon a transit worker. The Judiciary.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 129) of Paul R. Feeney for legislation to require that mandated reporters complete training at least every two years to recognize and report suspected child abuse or neglect. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 127) of Paul R. Feeney and Michael S. Chaisson for legislation to authorize the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to establish additional mandated reporters for the purpose of the protection and care of children. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1849) of Paul R. Feeney for legislation relative to court officers injured on duty. Public Service.