Sen. Bruce Tarr

Maddy summaryThis law requires health insurance plans in the state to cover specific breast cancer screening and diagnostic tests without charging patients extra fees. It mandates that if a plan covers standard mammograms, it must also cover digital breast tomosynthesis, breast MRI, and breast ultrasound on equal terms, including for follow-up exams after an abnormality is found. The legislation applies to private insurance, state employee plans, and Medicaid managed care, while also clarifying rules for high-deductible health savings accounts regarding these preventive benefits.

By Representative Kassner of Hamilton and Senator Tarr, a joint petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Kristin E. Kassner, Bruce E. Tarr and others for the issuance of an annual proclamation by the Governor to designate April 5 as Okur-Chung Neurodevelopmental Syndrome awareness day. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Senate, October 28, 2024 - Text of the Senate amendment (Senator Tarr) for the House Bill to recall elected officials in the town of Manchester-by-the-Sea (printed as Senate, No. 440).

By Representative Cahill of Lynn and Senator Lovely, a joint petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Daniel Cahill and Joan B. Lovely for legislation to further regulate insurance claims. Financial Services.

Maddy summaryThis bill temporarily suspends an existing rule to allow the Senate to meet for formal business. The change specifically permits the chamber to convene in order to consider reports from conference committees or those received from the House. By overriding the standard restrictions, the legislation enables the Senate to handle these specific legislative tasks without adhering to the usual procedural limitations.

By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Bruce E. Tarr, Peter J. Durant, Ryan C. Fattman, Patrick M. O'Connor and other members of the General Court for legislation to enhance the authority of courts to protect public safety. The Judiciary.

By Representative Kassner of Hamilton, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Kristin E. Kassner relative to ecological restoration projects. Environment and Natural Resources.

By Representative Garlick of Needham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2330) of Denise C. Garlick and others relative to providing protections for health care employees who are victims of violence or assault and battery. Public Safety and Homeland Security.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health care employers in Massachusetts to create and enforce programs aimed at preventing workplace violence. To achieve this, facilities must conduct annual risk assessments in cooperation with employees and labor unions to identify specific dangers, such as working in public areas or guarding property. The legislation defines workplace violence to include unpermitted touching, attempts to use physical force, or threatening behavior that causes fear of future harm. These measures apply to a wide range of settings, including hospitals and state correctional facilities, while explicitly excluding certain outpatient services like clinics and dialysis centers.

By Representative Cusack of Braintree, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2486) of Mark J. Cusack and Carole A. Fiola relative to the cost of living adjustment for state and teacher retirees. Public Service.