Sen. Adam Gómez

Maddy summaryThis bill gives tenants in multi-family residential buildings (excluding certain types like single-family homes or shelters) a first right to purchase their property if the owner sells due to foreclosure, short sale, or deed in lieu. To qualify, at least 51% of tenant-occupied units must form a Tenant Association. If the association meets requirements, it gets priority to buy the property before outside buyers, and the property must later be maintained as long-term affordable housing for 30 years through recorded deed restrictions. Municipalities can choose to adopt this local option.

By Mr. Eldridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 984) of James B. Eldridge for legislation to regulate junk fees in rental housing. Housing.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates vehicle emissions standards by adding an exemption for vehicles used in maintaining public infrastructure. Specifically, it exempts vehicles used for repairing or maintaining electricity, water, gas, telecommunications, and sewage systems from the emissions standards outlined in the law. The exemption applies directly to utility and infrastructure maintenance operations, ensuring these vehicles are not subject to the new standards. The change takes effect immediately upon the bill's passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to support municipal light plants during emergencies. It allows these community-owned utilities to sell, rent, or lease equipment (like generators or tools) used for emergency mutual aid - when one town helps another during power outages. It also ensures employees providing this emergency assistance receive the same workers' compensation coverage and benefits as if they were working on regular utility duties. The changes directly affect municipal light plants and their workers participating in mutual aid efforts across towns.

By Ms. Edwards, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1522) of Lydia Edwards, Adam Gomez, Susannah M. Whipps, James B. Eldridge and other members of the General Court for legislation to promote patient safety and equitable access to care. Public Health.

Maddy summaryThis bill defines "off-road vehicle" to include ATVs, dirt bikes, and similar recreational vehicles. It prohibits retail dealers from selling motor fuel directly into these vehicles using dispensing devices, including self-service pumps operated by customers. The law applies specifically to fuel sales at retail locations, banning direct fueling of off-road vehicles at the point of sale. It does not address vehicle confiscation or alter existing rules for public road use.

By Mr. Gomez, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1869) of Adam Gomez and Deborah B. Goldberg, Treasurer and Receiver General, for legislation relative to require public pension fund divestment from ammunition and firearms. Public Service.

By Mr. Gomez, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 764) of Adam Gomez for legislation to ensure prompt access to health care. Financial Services.

Maddy summarySD 1109 establishes a pilot program making MBTA bus service free for all riders on designated routes, starting no later than December 31, 2026. The MBTA pilot must include at least 10 priority routes (with specific requirements for routes ending at commuter rail/subway stations or depots) and 10 high-ridership routes from 2020, while Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) must implement a similar free bus pilot on at least one high-ridership route. An advisory group for each pilot will monitor impacts on ridership, equity, system efficiency, and costs, holding quarterly public meetings and reporting findings every six months. The program is structured as a one-year test to evaluate the feasibility and effects of fare-free bus service before potential broader implementation.

By Mr. Gomez, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 372) of Adam Gomez for legislation to create a disproportionate share childcare provider fund. Education.