Sen. Jason Lewis

By Mr. O'Connor, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 418) of Patrick M. O'Connor, John J. Marsi, Hannah Kane, Ryan C. Fattman and other members of the General Court for legislation to improve augmentative and alternative communication opportunities for children with disabilities. Education.

Senate, December 22, 2025 -- The committee on Revenue to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1973) of James B. Eldridge, James K. Hawkins and Jason M. Lewis for legislation relative to the imposition of an excise tax to provide for climate change adaptation infrastructure and affordable housing investments in the Commonwealth, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2751)

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a Trail Access Working Group to improve trail access for people with disabilities across Massachusetts. The working group, required to include at least one-third members who identify as having disabilities and reflect geographic and racial diversity, will review current trail access, study best practices, and issue annual reports with specific recommendations - including cost estimates and funding ideas - to the governor and legislature. It also creates a Trail Access Advisory Council to implement these recommendations and serve as a public resource for accessible trail design. The policy directly affects state agencies managing trails (like the Department of Conservation and Recreation), municipalities with public trails, and people with mobility disabilities seeking equitable outdoor access.

By Mr. Gomez, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 132) of Adam Gomez, Jason M. Lewis, Michael D. Brady, James B. Eldridge and other members of the Senate for legislation to allow certain minors to consent to shelter and receive supportive services. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.

By Mr. Eldridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1973) of James B. Eldridge, James K. Hawkins and Jason M. Lewis for legislation relative to the imposition of an excise tax to provide for climate change adaptation infrastructure and affordable housing investments in the Commonwealth. Revenue.

By Mr. Lewis (by request), a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 303) of Vincent Dixon, for legislation relative to Community Institution Stabilization. Economic Development and Emerging Technologies.

By Mr. Cyr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 464) of Julian Cyr, Rodney M. Elliott, Rebecca L. Rausch, James B. Eldridge and other members of the General Court for legislation to strengthen the state home care program workforce by requiring each covered employer to enter into a labor peace agreement. Elder Affairs.

Maddy summaryThis bill strengthens protections for workers who report work-related injuries or illnesses by creating a strong presumption of retaliation if an employer takes adverse action within 90 days of such protected activity. It expands the definition of prohibited retaliation to include actions like denying employment relationships or falsely claiming injuries aren't work-related, and requires employers to post multilingual notices about worker rights. Workers who face retaliation can now seek treble damages, attorney fees, and injunctive relief through civil court. The bill also clarifies that employers must indemnify insurers for unpaid wages required by law, ensuring workers receive full compensation.

By Mr. Lewis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1567) of Jason M. Lewis for legislation to regulate access to certain tobacco products by persons under twenty-one years of age. Public Health.

By Mr. Lewis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1568) of Jason M. Lewis and John F. Keenan for legislation to prohibit the sale of tobacco products to persons born on or after January 1, 2006. Public Health.