Substituted by the House, on motion of Mr. Walsh of Peabody, for a bill with the same title (House, No. 2939) [Local Approval Received]. April 30, 2026.
Maddy summaryThis bill expands health insurance coverage for prosthetic and orthotic devices in Massachusetts to ensure equitable access for people with limb loss or differences. It mandates that insurance plans cover specialized equipment designed for physical activities like swimming or biking, removes discriminatory barriers to coverage based on disability, and requires networks to include at least two distinct providers for these services. Additionally, the legislation simplifies the process for replacing devices by allowing replacements based on medical necessity rather than strict time limits, provided repairs would cost more than 60% of a new device. These changes directly affect state employees and other insured individuals, aiming to improve their ability to perform daily life activities and maintain physical function.
Maddy summaryThis bill mandates that health care plans for firefighters in Massachusetts cover specific cancer screenings without charging co-payments or deductibles. It requires these screenings to begin three years after a firefighter starts their job and to be repeated every three years while they are employed. The law specifies that the exams must check for various types of cancer, including lung, colon, and prostate cancer, and applies to firefighters working for the state, cities, towns, and certain military bases. While the bill generally prohibits out-of-pocket costs, it allows for cost-sharing only if federal tax laws require it to maintain the plan's tax-exempt status.
Maddy summaryH 4335 requires Massachusetts' Group Insurance Commission to cover medically necessary cognitive rehabilitation services for Commonwealth employees (active and retired) with an acquired brain injury (ABI). The bill mandates coverage for specific therapies including cognitive rehabilitation therapy, neurocognitive therapy, community reintegration services, and neurofeedback therapy, without lifetime or unreasonable annual limits. It prohibits insurers from denying coverage solely because services occur outside a hospital and requires insurers to train staff on these benefits. The law also specifies that providers must hold appropriate licenses and accreditation for these services. This directly affects Commonwealth employees with ABI by ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage for their rehabilitation needs.
Senate, June 18, 2016 -- Text of the Senate Bill relative to primary care for you (Senate, No. 3141) (being the text of Senate, No. 3116, printed as amended)
Maddy summaryThis bill requires public employers (such as state, city, or fire district departments) to provide full-time firefighters with free cancer screenings every three years, starting three years after they begin working as firefighters. It covers screenings for 11 specific cancers including colon, lung, bladder, and prostate, with all costs paid by the employer's health plan - no co-pays or deductibles required. The mandate applies to firefighters in municipal departments, the Massachusetts Military Reservation, the 104th Fighter Wing, and Devens fire departments. The only exception is if the employer's health plan is federally tax-exempt and would lose that status without cost-sharing, though this is uncommon.
Maddy summaryThis bill (H 4549) requires Massachusetts health insurers and MassHealth to cover prosthetic and orthotic devices without discrimination based on disability. It mandates coverage for devices designed for daily use and specific physical activities (like showering or sports), ensures replacement without lifetime restrictions, and prohibits separate financial barriers for these devices. The law also guarantees access to at least two in-network providers and prevents denial of coverage for limb loss-related needs that would be covered for non-disabled individuals seeking similar medical care. It directly affects people with limb loss or difference who rely on these devices for mobility and daily living.
By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 427) of Jacob R. Oliveira for legislation to expand high school student access to earn industry recognized credentials. Education.
By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 426) of Jacob R. Oliveira, Vanna Howard, Joanne M. Comerford, Michael D. Brady and other members of the General Court for legislation to ensure that all students are prepared for future success. Education.
By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 431) of Jacob R. Oliveira for legislation to develop a statewide program which identifies seven competencies that schools will support students to develop upon graduation from high school. Education.
