Sen. Jake Oliveira

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the state to fully reimburse school districts for special education transportation costs that exceed regular program costs. It directly affects cities, towns, regional school districts, and vocational schools serving students with special education needs. Reimbursement covers the regular program's average per-pupil cost plus excess costs (capped at 110% of the statewide average), calculated using specific department-defined methods. Funding increases gradually, reaching 100% reimbursement by fiscal year 2029. The bill ensures districts aren't burdened by costs not covered under existing programs.

By Ms. Creem, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 197) of Cynthia Stone Creem, Rebecca L. Rausch, Michael O. Moore, Joanne M. Comerford and other members of the General Court for legislation to protect reproductive health access, LGBTQ lives, religious liberty, and freedom of movement by banning the sale of cell phone location information. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new licensing system for quarries that produce concrete aggregate used in foundations, requiring applicants to submit geological reports and test results to prove the absence of harmful minerals like pyrite and pyrrhotite. It creates a state agency to oversee this process, publish a public database of licensed quarries, and manage a fund to help homeowners with deteriorated foundations caused by these minerals. The legislation also imposes strict liability on unlicensed quarry operators and contractors who use non-compliant concrete, while allowing local governments to set even stricter safety standards.

Senate, December 30, 2024 -- The committee on Senate Ways and Means, to whom was referred the Senate Bill relative to crumbling concrete foundations (Senate, No. 2559),- reports, recommending that the same ought to pass with an amendment substituting a new draft with the same title (Senate, No. 3015).

By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2444) of Jacob R. Oliveira, Daniel R. Carey and Mindy Domb (by vote of the town) for legislation to provide for recall elections in the town of Granby. Election Laws. [Local approval received]

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the town of Warren to continue employing Steven Perkins as a firefighter. It requires no new policy changes or funding, as Warren's local government has already approved this continuation of his employment through a town vote. The bill simply formalizes the town's existing decision to keep Perkins in his fire department role.

Maddy summaryThis law changes the retirement rules for retired police officers in Springfield who work as special police officers. Previously, these officers faced the same age limits as regular police officers, but this bill sets their maximum age at 70. Additionally, the law ensures that their pay is not reduced after they turn 65, removing a previous deduction rule. It applies only to those appointed under a specific 2018 law and takes effect immediately upon passing.

By Representative Murray of Milford, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Brian W. Murray and others relative to disqualification from operating commercial motor vehicles. Transportation.

Maddy summaryThis law requires health insurance plans in the state to cover specific breast cancer screening and diagnostic tests without charging patients extra fees. It mandates that if a plan covers standard mammograms, it must also cover digital breast tomosynthesis, breast MRI, and breast ultrasound on equal terms, including for follow-up exams after an abnormality is found. The legislation applies to private insurance, state employee plans, and Medicaid managed care, while also clarifying rules for high-deductible health savings accounts regarding these preventive benefits.

Senate, January 4, 2024 -- Text of the Senate Bill expanding wheelchair warranty protections for consumers with disabilities (Senate, No. 2546) (being the text of Senate, No. 2541, printed as amended)