By Ms. Friedman, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1403) of Cindy F. Friedman, Joanne M. Comerford, Mike Connolly, Adam Gómez and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to reducing administrative burden. Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to add "Air Medal" as a recognized military award for license plate designations. It directly affects veterans who have earned the Air Medal by providing them with a specific license plate option. The key provision inserts "Air Medal" into existing sections of the law that list military honors eligible for plate recognition, alongside the Distinguished Flying Cross. This is a procedural change to expand military recognition plate choices without altering other laws or creating new benefits.
By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1611) of Jacob R. Oliveira and Paul W. Mark for legislation to offer natural organic reduction as an environmentally-friendly burial alternative. Public Health.
Maddy summaryThis bill (HD 1854) requires health insurance plans covering Commonwealth employees, retirees, and private insurance policies in Massachusetts to provide coverage for specific dental and oral care related to head and neck cancer. It mandates coverage for pre-cancer dental care (to prevent infection or decay), dental procedures before cancer treatment (like chemotherapy), and post-cancer care (to address treatment side effects such as tooth loss or infection). The bill also covers dental implants, prostheses, rehabilitation services, and patient education necessary to restore function (eating, speaking, swallowing) and appearance affected by cancer or its treatment. These requirements apply to group insurance plans (Chapter 32A), health insurance (Chapter 118E), private medical insurance (Chapter 175), and hospital service plans (Chapter 176A).
By Ms. Jehlen, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 870) of Patricia D. Jehlen, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., Hannah Kane, Michael O. Moore and other members of the General Court for legislation to clarify rate setting processes for home health and home care services. Health Care Financing.
By Mr. Gomez, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 869) of Adam Gomez, James K. Hawkins, Jacob R. Oliveira, Joanne M. Comerford and other members of the General Court for legislation to prevent discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of health care. Health Care Financing.
By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1612) of Jacob R. Oliveira for legislation relative to burial alternatives that protect the environment. Public Health.
Maddy summaryHD 3787 requires health insurers in Massachusetts 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 swimming or running), including repairs and replacements when medically necessary. The bill prohibits insurers from imposing stricter cost-sharing for these devices than for other medical services and ensures access to at least two in-network providers. This directly affects residents with limb loss or difference who rely on prosthetics or orthotics for mobility and daily function.
By Mr. Gomez, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 369) of Adam Gomez, Joanne M. Comerford, Vanna Howard, Michael D. Brady and other members of the General Court for legislation to establish the Whole Child Grant Program. Education.
By Ms. Comerford, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 311) of Joanne M. Comerford, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., Adam Gomez, Jacob R. Oliveira and other members of the General Court for legislation to establish farm to school grants to promote healthy eating and strengthen the agricultural economy. Education.
