Sen. Nick Collins

Maddy summaryThis bill implements recommendations from the Walsh-Kennedy Commission to strengthen safety regulations for cutting, welding, and hot works processes in Massachusetts. It requires all worker certifications to be verified through a secure, multilingual electronic database that ensures training is conducted in person with ongoing education. The legislation also increases penalties for violations, introducing criminal negligence charges and higher fines or jail time for repeat offenders who cause serious injury or death. Additionally, the Department of Fire Safety must create a public notification system to record and share information about non-compliance with these safety rules.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes Building Trades Recovery Week, a designated period each year to raise awareness about opioid and substance misuse issues within the construction industry. Sponsored by legislators Nick Collins and Rodney M. Elliott, the measure directs the governor to issue an annual proclamation setting aside the last week of April for this observance. During this week, the Buildings Trades Employers Association is tasked with organizing events and discussions to promote mental health and combat the opioid epidemic among construction workers. The legislation focuses on creating a formal framework for addressing substance abuse in the building trades rather than implementing specific regulatory changes or funding allocations.

By Mr. Collins, a petition (accompanied by bill) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Nick Collins and Ryan C. Fattman for legislation relative to grant expenditures for public health and safety. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes public agencies in Massachusetts to require Project Labor Agreements for specific construction projects. A Project Labor Agreement is a pre-hire contract that sets employment terms for all workers on a project, regardless of which union they belong to. Public agencies can choose to use these agreements on a case-by-case basis if they believe it will improve project efficiency, safety, and workforce development. The law defines key terms such as "construction," "labor organization," and "lead construction firm" to clarify how these agreements apply to public works. Ultimately, the bill gives government entities the discretion to decide whether to mandate these agreements based on the specific needs of each project.

Maddy summaryThis bill grants property tax exemptions to disabled veterans in Massachusetts who have a service-connected disability rating of 100 percent from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. To qualify, the veteran must be at least 65 years old, a legal resident of the state, and have served under honorable conditions, while the property must be their primary residence. The exemption covers a percentage of the home's value equal to the veteran's disability rating, with the state covering the resulting tax loss by reimbursing local municipalities. Additionally, the benefit extends to the surviving spouse if they continue to own and occupy the home after the veteran passes away.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a legal framework in Massachusetts to ensure that owners of portable wireless devices can have them repaired by independent repair shops. It requires manufacturers to provide independent repair providers with the necessary parts, tools, and technical documentation on fair and reasonable terms, preventing companies from blocking third-party repairs through restrictive access. The law defines specific categories for manufacturers, authorized repair providers, and independent repair providers to clarify who must comply with these access requirements. By mandating access to repair resources, the legislation aims to increase consumer choice and competition in the device repair market.

The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 142) of Michael D. Brady, Sal N. DiDomenico, Anne M. Gobi, Jack Patrick Lewis and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to digital right to repair; and (accompanied by bill, House, No. 360) of Adrian C. Madaro and others relative to digital right to repair, reports the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2478).

By Representative Roy of Franklin, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 383) of Jeffrey N. Roy for legislation to allow electronic delivery receipts for certain bulk sale customers of fuel oils and propane. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.

By Mr. Collins, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2399) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Nick Collins for legislation relative to pension parity. Public Service.

Senate, July 31, 2023 -- The committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight, to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1975) of Nick Collins for legislation relative to property rights, reports the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2430).