Maddy summaryHD 2546, titled "An Act ensuring our freedom to read in the Commonwealth," requires Massachusetts public libraries to protect the freedom to acquire and provide library materials without external restrictions or bans. The bill declares state policy supporting libraries' role in education and mandates the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners to establish rules ensuring libraries meet specific standards, including adopting the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights or creating a similar written policy prohibiting book removals based on partisan or doctrinal disapproval. Key provisions require libraries to provide accessible services, materials for all educational levels, professionally trained staff, and diverse collections to meet community needs. This law directly affects all public libraries and library systems across Massachusetts, aiming to safeguard access to information for every resident.
Sen. Bruce Tarr
Sponsored bills
By Ms. Kennedy, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1347) of Robyn K. Kennedy, Dylan A. Fernandes, Michael D. Brady and Jacob R. Oliveira for legislation to ensure workplace psychological safety by deeming workplace bullying an unlawful practice. Labor and Workforce Development.
By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1895) of Jacob R. Oliveira, Ryan C. Fattman, Paul W. Mark, Joanne M. Comerford and other members of the General Court for legislation to provide equity to police officers disabled by cardiac disease. Public Service.
Maddy summaryThis bill (SD 2577) is procedural and does not create new policy. It amends Chapter 178 of the Acts of 2024 by removing Section 53 entirely. The bill has no direct impact on constituents or new mechanisms, as it only deletes an existing section from prior legislation. No specific beneficiaries, affected groups, or policy changes are described in the provided text.
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1910) of Bruce E. Tarr and Steven George Xiarhos for legislation to provide the next of kin of a police officer or firefighter killed in the line of duty with the flags of the Commonwealth and the United States. Public Service.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires Massachusetts public and private schools to incorporate opioid use disorder education into existing health curricula. Schools must teach students about opioids, overdose identification, naloxone use and access, reducing stigma around naloxone, and medical amnesty for laypeople who assist during overdoses. The mandate applies to all school districts, charter schools, and approved private or residential schools. The law directs schools to build this content into current health education programs without creating new standalone courses.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires employers on private construction projects exceeding $750,000 to post specific transparency information at job sites. It applies to residential developments with over 10 units or commercial/industrial projects over 5,000 square feet. Key provisions mandate posting: (1) a compliance certificate showing current contributions to worker benefits, (2) workers' compensation carrier details and coverage status, and (3) a sign-in/out log tracking all workers' names, signatures, trade licenses, and arrival/departure times. Employers must provide these records to the Attorney General upon request.
Maddy summaryThis bill makes workplace bullying unlawful by defining it as severe or pervasive conduct creating a toxic work environment. It requires all employers (of any size) to implement written anti-bullying policies within 90 days, train employees, establish transparent complaint processes, and maintain records. Employees can sue for damages including back pay, punitive awards for egregious cases, and up to $5,000 per violation (capped at $15,000), plus attorney fees. The law also prohibits employers from mandating mediation before legal counsel or using non-disclosure agreements in bullying cases, and grants victims a three-year window to file claims.
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 74) of Bruce E. Tarr for legislation relative to reimbursement of the Marine Recreational Fisheries Development Fund for free licenses. Agriculture.
Maddy summaryThis bill allows the town of Ipswich to increase the income limit for its Senior Tax Deferral Program (under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 41A) to match the higher threshold in Chapter 62, Section 6, Subsection (k). It directly affects Ipswich seniors who qualify for the tax deferral program by expanding eligibility to include those with higher incomes. The town select board must vote to implement the adjustment, which would take effect for tax exemptions granted starting July 1, 2025. The change aligns Ipswich's program with a broader state income limit for similar senior tax relief.