Sen. Jason Lewis

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits new gas facilities or expansions within 5 miles of environmental justice neighborhoods, except when required for public safety. It mandates that Massachusetts gas companies submit detailed "just transition plans" by 2026, covering workforce training, retention, and pipeline retirement timelines through 2050 to align with net-zero emissions goals. These plans must address maintaining safe service while shifting to renewable energy alternatives and include measures for employee support during the transition. The requirements apply to all gas distribution companies operating in Massachusetts under Chapter 164.

Senate, December 11, 2025 -- The committee on Housing to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1008) of Joan B. Lovely, James K. Hawkins, James B. Eldridge, Jason M. Lewis and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to the Massachusetts rental voucher program, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2826).

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a Massachusetts Bridge Employment Training Program (BET) administered by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development. It directly affects unemployed or underemployed Massachusetts residents who lost jobs within six weeks or are deemed employable. The program establishes training contracts (IETCs) for up to two years, matching participants with job opportunities in private, non-profit, and public sectors through coordinated training and placement. The goal is to provide accessible skills training to improve individual economic outcomes and support the state's workforce needs.

Maddy summaryMassachusetts bill SD 1200 requires broadband providers to offer high-speed internet service to eligible low-income households at $15 per month. Eligibility includes households participating in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or federal housing assistance, or earning under 200% of the federal poverty level. The service must provide at least 100 Mbps download speed, and providers must report annually to the state telecom department on enrollment and compliance. Violations can be enforced through court actions by the Attorney General.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1324) of Paul R. Feeney and Jason M. Lewis for legislation relative to update overtime salary thresholds and codifying definitions to protect middle-class workers. Labor and Workforce Development.

Maddy summaryHD 3454 clarifies the definition of fraud in public construction bidding to better protect government projects. It requires bidders to certify under penalty of perjury that their bids contain no intentional misrepresentations, omissions, or false statements, and expands the definition of "person" to include all business entities. The bill also adds a specific fraud definition covering knowingly false statements, misleading acts, or reckless disregard of truth intended to mislead. These changes directly affect contractors and bidders submitting proposals for public construction projects in Massachusetts. The law updates certification requirements in bid submissions and appeal grounds to address fraudulent practices.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a phased carbon pricing system for major emissions sectors in Massachusetts, requiring market-based mechanisms (like fees or emissions trading) to meet statewide climate goals. It mandates carbon pricing starting in 2028 for commercial/industrial heating, 2029 for industrial processes, 2030 for transportation, and 2031 for residential heating, with prices beginning at $50 per metric ton of CO2 equivalent and increasing by $10 annually to a $200 cap. Proceeds from transportation fees must fund rebates for residents/employers and the Commonwealth Transportation Fund, while other sector fees support specific trust funds for climate action. The bill requires annual reporting on emissions reductions and ensures pricing mechanisms prioritize equity, protect low-income communities, and prevent increases in harmful air pollutants.

By Mr. Lewis (by request), a petition (accompanied by resolve, Senate, No. 2163) of Vincent Dixon, that provisions be made for an investigation and study by a commission (including members of the General Court) relative to the revitalization of the right of free petition. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

By Mr. Lewis (by request), a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2164) of Vincent Dixon, for legislation relative to improving boards and commissions. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Maddy summaryMassachusetts Bill SD 1573 establishes the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP), providing rental assistance to low-income households (with 75% of vouchers targeted to households earning 30% or less of area median income) to help them afford decent, stable housing. The program sets payment standards at 100-110% of local market rent rates, limits tenant rent payments to 30% of income (with a temporary 40% exception), and requires unit inspections for safety compliance. It mandates annual data collection on voucher usage, including household demographics and location, to be reported to state legislators. The bill also sets a minimum $80 monthly administrative fee per voucher and ensures unspent funds carry over to the next fiscal year.