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.
Sen. Jo Comerford
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill validates the May 5, 2025, annual town election in New Salem, confirming all votes cast despite any defects in how the election was called. It directly affects New Salem voters by retroactively confirming the election's results as legally valid. The bill’s sole provision (Section 1) explicitly states that all votes from this election are "ratified, validated and confirmed in all respects," with no further changes to election procedures. It takes effect immediately upon passage.
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 (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 Ms. Comerford, a petition (accompanied by resolutions, Senate, No. 1649) of Joanne M. Comerford, Patrick M. O'Connor, Samantha Montaño, Patrick Joseph Kearney and others for the adoption of resolutions to embrace the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons and move the US back from the brink of nuclear war. Public Safety and Homeland Security.
Maddy summaryThis bill restructures the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren by expanding its membership to 21 people and defining specific roles for each appointing authority. The new structure ensures that several members are grandparents or kinship caregivers with direct experience raising minor children, while others are appointed by various government officials and elected leaders. The commission is tasked with fostering unity among these families, advising lawmakers on relevant legislation, and investigating whether a dedicated state agency should be created to support them.
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. Gómez, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 374) of Adam Gómez, Joanne M. Comerford, Patricia D. Jehlen, John F. Keenan and other members of the General Court for legislation to empower students and schools to thrive. Education.
By Mr. Lewis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 398) of Jason M. Lewis, Joanne M. Comerford, Rebecca L. Rausch and James B. Eldridge for legislation relative to programs of study for high school students and graduation requirements. Education.
Maddy summaryThis bill ensures teachers who move from classroom roles to positions at the Executive Office of Education or the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education retain their status in the teacher retirement system (or Boston retirement system), avoiding a switch to the state employees' retirement system. It requires such employees to pay makeup contributions for the difference in retirement payments between systems during their time in state education roles. Additionally, it creates a one-time 180-day opportunity for eligible teachers (who began contributing before July 2001 and didn’t choose an alternative retirement program) to join a specific retirement benefit program. The bill directly affects current and future educators transitioning to state education agency jobs, focusing on maintaining retirement benefits and contribution continuity.