Sen. Paul Feeney

Senate, March 12, 2026 -- The committee on Financial Services to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 752) of Paul R. Feeney for legislation to promote financial literacy, wealth-building, and economic opportunity for all, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2988).

By Ms. Lovely, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1573) of Joan B. Lovely, Jason M. Lewis, Paul K. Frost, Ryan C. Fattman and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to newborn screenings for congenital cytomegalovirus. Public Health.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SD 817) protects tenants with pets from eviction during emergencies and standardizes pet policies in housing. Landlords cannot evict tenants for having pets during a state of emergency (for one year after it ends) unless pets cause actual harm, and hotels cannot unreasonably refuse pets during emergencies. It bans housing rules that restrict pets based on breed, size, or appearance, and allows landlords to charge a capped additional rent (max 1% of rent per dog or total for other pets), excluding service animals. These changes directly affect renters, landlords, and housing authorities, aiming to prevent pet-related housing discrimination.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1537) of Paul R. Feeney and Patrick M. O'Connor for legislation to establish testing protocol and care for victims of date rape drugs. Public Health.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 752) of Paul R. Feeney for legislation to promote financial literacy, wealth-building, and economic opportunity for all. Financial Services.

By Mr. Montigny, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 640) of Mark C. Montigny, John F. Keenan, Joanne M. Comerford, Michael O. Moore and other members of the General Court for legislation to promote humane cosmetics and other household products by limiting the use of animal testing. Environment and Natural Resources.

Maddy summarySD 1398 expands protections for domestic animals by defining "cruel conditions" to include exposure to waste, lack of food/water, or inadequate weather protection, and explicitly includes livestock under "domestic animal." It imposes tiered fines for violations: up to $50 for a first offense, $200 for a second, and $500 for third or subsequent offenses, with possible animal impoundment or loss of ownership for repeat violations. The bill affects owners or keepers of all domestic animals, including livestock, by establishing clearer standards for animal care. Fines collected under this law must be deposited into the Homeless Animal Prevention and Care Fund.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 235) of Paul R. Feeney for legislation to ensure the Gaming Commission regulates internet gaming. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 299) of Paul R. Feeney for legislation relative to economic development and infrastructure in the Stadium Area of Route1. Economic Development and Emerging Technologies.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by resolve, Senate, No. 1997) of Paul R. Feeney that provisions be made for an investigation and study by a special commission (including members of the General Court) to evaluate and report on the impact that passage of the People’s Budget would have on Massachusetts. Revenue.