Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance plans in Massachusetts that cover pregnancy-related benefits to also cover medically necessary infertility diagnosis, treatment, and preservation services. The law applies to individuals and groups residing or working in the state, ensuring that coverage for these services is provided without discrimination based on age, sexual orientation, or familial status. Insurers must follow medical standards set by professional societies and cannot impose restrictions such as waiting periods or limits on the number of treatment attempts. Additionally, the bill mandates coverage for fertility preservation when a person has a diagnosed medical or genetic condition that could impair their reproductive ability.
Sen. Paul Feeney
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill expands access to postpartum home visiting services for new parents and their newborns in Massachusetts by requiring health insurance plans to cover these visits without deductibles or co-pays. The legislation directs the Department of Public Health to create a statewide system that offers evidence-based support, including health screenings, nutritional guidance, and referrals to community resources, within eight weeks after birth. Providers must check if patients have other insurance coverage first, but the state acts as a payer of last resort to ensure services are available regardless of income or family size. Additionally, the law mandates that these programs report data to the department to monitor effectiveness and reduce health disparities among different populations.
By Ms. Comerford, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2506) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Joanne M. Comerford, Natalie M. Blais, Rebecca L. Rausch, John J. Cronin and other members of the General Court for legislation to create a state disaster relief fund for emergency management. Emergency Preparedness and Management.
April 11. 2024 -- The committee on Emergency Preparedness and Management, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2506) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Joanne M. Comerford, Natalie M. Blais, Rebecca L. Rausch, John J. Cronin and other members of the General Court for legislation to create a state disaster relief fund for emergency management, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2724).
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to remove a specific paragraph from Section 6B of Chapter 159B, which currently outlines requirements for telecommunications and utility companies. By striking this text, the legislation eliminates a particular administrative reporting or compliance obligation that these industries must follow. The change directly affects telecommunications and utility providers by simplifying their regulatory interactions with the state. This measure aims to reduce the overall administrative burden on both government agencies and the private sector without introducing new rules.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires contractors performing repairs on public gas and electric infrastructure to follow specific state laws regarding labor standards and prevailing wages. It mandates that utility companies provide prevailing wage rate sheets to the Department of Labor every six months for each municipality where work is conducted. Additionally, the bill directs the Department of Labor to create rules for a certification program within one year that will train and certify contractors and their employees working on public utility infrastructure. These measures aim to increase safety and transparency in the repair of public utility systems by ensuring fair labor practices and professional qualifications.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires natural gas companies to inspect and repair leaks, install protective gate boxes on shut-off valves, and verify valve accessibility before and after excavation or blasting projects. It mandates that these companies notify local municipalities or the state about significant construction work and submit written confirmation that safety measures have been completed. To enforce these rules, the legislation imposes fines of up to $10,000 for failing to verify valve safety and $200 per day for not providing the required written confirmation. These changes directly affect gas utility operators and aim to improve public safety by ensuring critical infrastructure remains secure during ground-disturbing activities.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a state grant program to help Veterans' organization posts in Massachusetts install solar energy systems at their headquarters or halls. The program establishes a dedicated trust fund with an annual spending limit of $500,000 to cover the costs of purchasing and installing solar equipment, ensuring that all electricity generated benefits the awarded organization. Eligible groups can receive grants of up to $50,000 each, with a requirement that at least 10 grants be distributed across geographically diverse areas every fiscal year. The Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs will manage the program and submit annual reports detailing the grants awarded and funds disbursed to the state legislature.
Maddy summaryThis bill directs Massachusetts public schools and universities to conduct detailed energy audits to identify ways they can reduce energy use and switch to renewable power. The law requires these audits to estimate costs and savings, list available funding options, and include specific inspections of building insulation and envelopes. By improving energy efficiency and adding solar power, the legislation aims to lower emissions, reduce utility costs, and create jobs while protecting students and staff from climate-related risks like extreme heat and flooding. Ultimately, the bill supports the state's goal of making all public educational buildings carbon-free by 2033.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires gas and distribution companies in Massachusetts to increase transparency when awarding construction contracts worth $100,000 or more for work on public roads. Under the new rules, companies must notify all bidders of the award decision within two business days and post the winning contractor's name, bid amount, and project location on their website. The law also mandates that written notices to bidders include the specific criteria used for the award and the score the bidder received. Companies may withhold certain information if doing so would harm law enforcement, public interest, or fair competition, and the state department is tasked with enforcing these requirements.