By Mr. Velis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2095) of John C. Velis for legislation to establish a vendors’ collection allowance. Revenue.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates the "Honor and Remember" flag as a symbol representing Massachusetts' commitment to honoring U.S. military members who died in service and their families. It specifies the flag's symbolic elements (e.g., red for blood shed, gold star for ultimate sacrifice) and requires it to be displayed below the American flag when flown together, never larger than the American flag. The bill lists eight specific days for optional display (including Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Gold Star Mother's Day) and clarifies that no individual, organization, or government entity is mandated to purchase or display the flag. The measure focuses solely on recognition and voluntary display, with no enforcement or cost implications.
Senate, July 24, 2025 -- Text of the Senate Bill facilitating better interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder (Senate, No. 2565) (being the text of Senate No. 2558, printed as amended)
Maddy summaryThis bill mandates that most health insurance plans in Massachusetts cover acupuncture for specific conditions, including pain management, PTSD, substance abuse treatment, and nausea. It requires insurers to provide these benefits without differentiating reimbursement rates between licensed acupuncturists and medical doctors. The bill also creates a commission to study how to better integrate acupuncture into mainstream healthcare delivery, focusing on cost reduction, access, and quality. These changes directly affect insurance companies, healthcare providers, and Massachusetts residents seeking acupuncture services.
Maddy summaryThis bill (HD 2124) requires home healthcare employers to implement safety measures protecting workers who provide in-home care, such as nurses and therapists. Key provisions include mandatory annual safety training, pre-visit safety assessments considering patient history and potential risks, provision of communication devices (like cell phones or alarms), and protections allowing workers to refuse unsafe visits without penalty. Employers must also establish crisis response teams for violence victims, report workplace violence incidents every 180 days, and provide up to 7 paid days off for workers assaulted at work to seek legal assistance or court-related support. The bill directly affects home healthcare workers and their employers, focusing on reducing workplace violence risks through concrete safety protocols and accountability.
By Mr. Velis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 837) of John C. Velis for legislation to strengthen the state credit union charter. Financial Services.
Senate, July 31, 2025 -- Text of the Senate Bill to promote student learning and mental health (Senate, No. 2581) (being the text of Senate document numbered 2561, printed as amended)
Maddy summaryThis bill (SD 1308) requires courts to detain individuals who violate release conditions by committing specific firearm or violent offenses. It applies to people already charged with violent crimes (defined under Mass. law) or firearm offenses, who were released after certain hearings but then commit a new offense involving a firearm, rifle, shotgun, machinegun, or assault weapon, or commit a violent crime while on release. Judicial officers must order detention after a hearing using "clear and convincing evidence" of the violation. Detention cannot exceed 120 days in district court or 180 days in superior court without justification. The law aims to quickly address community safety risks posed by repeat offenders violating release terms.
Filed by Mr. Velis -- Senate Order relative to granting the committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery until April 30, 2026 within which time to make its final report on a certain current Senate document relative to addiction services.
Filed by Mr. Velis -- Senate Order relative to granting the committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs until April 30, 2026 within which time to make its final report on certain current Senate documents relative to veterans and federal affairs matters.
