Maddy summaryHD 1396 establishes a Municipal Reforestation Program in Massachusetts, requiring participating municipalities (those with less than 60% urban tree canopy or opting in) to develop reforestation plans. The bill creates an Urban Forest Advisory Council to provide science-based guidance on tree species selection, planting standards, and infrastructure compatibility, while developing model ordinances for tree preservation. Key provisions include setting metrics to measure environmental benefits like carbon sequestration, heat island reduction, and stormwater management. The program directly affects municipalities needing to improve tree canopy cover, with the council advising on implementation and workforce training for urban forestry.
Sen. Jamie Eldridge
Sponsored bills
By Mr. Gomez, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 132) of Adam Gomez, Jason M. Lewis, Michael D. Brady, James B. Eldridge and other members of the Senate for legislation to allow certain minors to consent to shelter and receive supportive services. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
Maddy summaryHD 4711 amends the law that established the Acton Memorial Library in the town of Acton. This local bill, approved by the town of Acton, updates the foundational legal framework governing the library's operation. The amendment modifies specific provisions of the original legislation without altering the library's core purpose or community service.
By Ms. Lovely, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 152) of Joan B. Lovely and Mark C. Montigny for legislation relative to preventing sexual abuse of children and youth by adults in positions of authority or trust. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
By Mr. Eldridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1972) of James B. Eldridge for legislation to allow cities and towns to increase the local tax rate on meals. Revenue.
By Mr. Eldridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1973) of James B. Eldridge, James K. Hawkins and Jason M. Lewis for legislation relative to the imposition of an excise tax to provide for climate change adaptation infrastructure and affordable housing investments in the Commonwealth. Revenue.
Maddy summarySD 895 bans noncompetition agreements in Massachusetts, which are clauses in employment contracts that restrict workers from joining competitors after leaving a job. The bill makes such agreements unenforceable starting January 1, 2026, directly affecting employers who use them and employees bound by these clauses. It amends state law to declare noncompetition agreements void and unenforceable as of the effective date. This change eliminates legal barriers preventing workers from changing jobs within the state.
By Mr. Payano, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1364) of Pavel M. Payano, Vanna Howard, Michael D. Brady, James K. Hawkins and other members of the General Court for legislation to streamline state employee collective bargaining. Labor and Workforce Development.
By Mr. Moore, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2046) of Michael O. Moore and James B. Eldridge for legislation to grant property tax exemptions to disabled veterans. Revenue.
Senate, December 18, 2025 -- The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 263) of Mark C. Montigny, Michael O. Moore, James K. Hawkins, James B. Eldridge and other members of the General Court for legislation to protect consumers from contributing to inhumane animal testing for cosmetics, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2744).