Sen. Jo Comerford

Maddy summaryHD 2762 updates definitions and procedures for protecting people with disabilities in Massachusetts. It clarifies "abuse" to include specific acts like withholding adaptive aids or certain physical force (defined as "abuse per se"), and redefines key terms like "disabled person" (ages 18-59 with intellectual, developmental, or other disabling conditions requiring daily assistance). The bill also revises the Disabled Persons Protection Commission to have 3 appointed members (instead of more) and requires it to create a special investigative unit for abuse reports involving criminal conduct. Additionally, it strengthens privacy protections by limiting disclosure of personally identifiable information in investigations.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the Massachusetts National Guard from being deployed into active combat without specific Congressional authorization. It requires that any deployment must follow either a formal U.S. Congressional declaration of war or a specific Congressional action under the Constitution's war powers (Article I, Section 8, Clause 15) to "execute the laws of the union, repel an invasion, or suppress an insurrection." The law directly affects Massachusetts National Guard members and their deployment authority, preventing them from being sent to combat zones without these explicit Congressional actions. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage and defines "active-duty combat" to include participation in armed conflicts or hazardous duties in foreign countries.

Maddy summaryThis bill limits electric and gas utility companies' allowed return on equity (a measure of profit) to the average approved in neighboring states (Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire) over the past four years. It directly affects Massachusetts utility companies seeking rate increases through state regulatory proceedings. The bill prohibits approving a higher return than this regional average, with limited exceptions only if a company's constitutional rights would otherwise be violated. It specifically excludes compensation from certain efficiency programs and performance incentives when calculating the allowed return.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SD 2061) allows Massachusetts municipalities to form "Municipal Aggregation" programs, enabling them to collectively negotiate electricity rates for residents and businesses within their jurisdiction. It requires utilities to create free interconnect permits for municipal renewable energy projects (like solar installations) within these aggregation programs, with no fees or delays permitted. The bill also streamlines access to state renewable energy funds by requiring the DPU to approve or reject municipal applications for funding within three months, automatically approving if no decision is made. Municipalities approved for aggregation can use these funds for energy efficiency programs benefiting their residents and businesses.

By Mr. Durant, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1834) of Peter J. Durant, Ryan C. Fattman and Joanne M. Comerford for legislation relative to retirement classification of licensed drinking water operators. Public Service.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Green Infrastructure Fund to finance climate and clean energy projects across Massachusetts. It prioritizes low-income households (defined by income thresholds) and communities disproportionately affected by pollution, requiring 60% of funds to support projects in these areas. The fund will support public transit, renewable energy, energy-efficient housing, and rural clean energy initiatives, administered by a 18-member board with diverse representation including environmental justice advocates, labor, businesses, and youth. The secretary of energy and environmental affairs must report annually on fund usage and project outcomes, with strict limits on administrative costs (3.5%).

Maddy summaryThis bill (SD 2305) requires Massachusetts gas distribution and transmission companies to develop and submit detailed "just transition" plans to the Department of Public Utilities. These plans must ensure workforce retention, training, and safety during the shift to clean energy, including maintaining staffing levels as of January 1, 2025 (except through negotiated early retirement), and outlining how companies will train workers for renewable energy roles. Companies must report on workforce development, cross-training, pension solvency, and measures to prevent job displacement through 2050 or until gas pipeline retirement. The bill directly affects all gas companies operating in Massachusetts and mandates compliance with new service quality standards for safety, reliability, and workforce transition.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires utility companies to offer customers the choice between wireless "smart" meters and traditional electromechanical analog meters (which emit no radiofrequency radiation) at no additional cost. Customers can request a free switch to an analog meter and must provide written consent before wireless meters are installed or their functionality changed. Utilities are prohibited from cutting off service, charging fees, or discriminating against customers who choose analog meters, or who have medical conditions sensitive to radiofrequency emissions. The law also bans installing wireless "equivalent technology" near properties where customers request non-transmitting meters.

By Ms. Creem, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1653) of Cynthia Stone Creem, Jason M. Lewis, David Paul Linsky, Christopher Richard Flanagan and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to firearm industry accountability and gun violence victims’ access to justice. Public Safety and Homeland Security.

Senate, December 1, 2025 -- The committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by resolve, Senate, No. 2327) of Joanne M. Comerford that provisions be made for an investigation and study by a special commission (including members of the General Court) to review and study of the state house art collection; (accompanied by resolve, Senate, No. 2329) of Julian Cyr that provisions be made for an investigation and study by a special commission (including members of the General Court) on artistic representation in the People’s House; and (accompanied by resolve, Senate, No. 2336) of Jacob R. Oliveira that provisions be made for an investigation and study by a special commission (including members of the General Court) to establish a State House restoration and management commission, report the accompanying resolve (Senate, No. 2740).