Sen. Mike Moore

Maddy summaryThis Massachusetts bill requires the state crime laboratory to conduct an audit of the DNA databank to identify missing profiles from offenders who were legally required to provide samples. The law mandates that the laboratory first submit a preliminary report estimating the number of missing samples by December 15, 2023, followed by a final report detailing specific offenses and collection failures. Additionally, the bill establishes a requirement for an annual audit to be completed and reported to the legislature by December 15 of each subsequent year.

By Representative Consalvo of Boston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2483) of Rob Consalvo and others relative to teacher retirement election. Public Service.

By Representative Barrows of Mansfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3142) of F. Jay Barrows and others relative to municipal light plants. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Massachusetts child protective services to gather and share information about the military status of family members when investigating credible allegations of domestic abuse or child neglect. It mandates that area directors create formal agreements with the Military Family Advocacy Program at local bases to establish clear procedures for reporting cases involving military personnel. These protocols are designed to ensure investigations are handled correctly while maintaining confidentiality and protecting the safety of victims and their families.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands Medicaid coverage in Massachusetts to include tobacco cessation counseling services. It directly affects Medicaid beneficiaries who need help quitting tobacco use by ensuring they can access these programs. The key provision updates state law to define "tobacco use cessation counseling" broadly, allowing it to be delivered by various qualified professionals including physicians, dentists, and behavioral health counselors through individual, group, or phone sessions. By adding this specific language to existing health statutes, the legislation formalizes the availability of these support services for those enrolled in the state's public health insurance program.

Maddy summaryThis Massachusetts bill ensures that individuals with mental health insurance can continue their treatment with a provider even if that provider is removed from the insurance network or the insurance company changes. It defines a "continuing course of treatment" as having at least one visit in the past four months for the same or similar condition. Under the new rules, insurance carriers must cover these out-of-network visits at the same rate they pay for in-network services, without charging patients extra deductibles or copayments unless the specific cost of using an out-of-network provider is proven to be higher. The law also requires carriers to justify any increased costs to the state's health policy division before imposing higher fees on patients.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires healthcare providers in Massachusetts to supply patients or their authorized representatives with medical records within 15 business days of receiving a written request. The law mandates that providers deliver complete information regarding diagnoses, treatments, and prognoses in language patients can easily understand, along with copies of technical documents like lab reports and X-rays or a summarized version if the patient consents. While providers may charge a reasonable cost for these records, they are prohibited from including written speculations about a patient's health condition, with the exception of information necessary for informed consent.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance plans in Massachusetts to provide clearer information about prescription drug coverage starting January 1, 2018. It mandates that insurers post their drug lists online in a searchable format and update them within 72 hours of any changes. The law also specifies that these lists must include details on drug tiers, co-pay amounts, and rules for prior authorization or step therapy. Additionally, the state's Division of Insurance must create a standard template to ensure all plans display this information consistently.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new licensure pathway for lactation care providers in Massachusetts, allowing them to practice independently without needing to be certified as physical therapists or athletic trainers. To qualify for a license, applicants must hold current certification from a nationally recognized accrediting agency and demonstrate good moral character. The legislation also creates a specific seat on the Board of Allied Health Professions for a licensed lactation care provider and adds new definitions to state law to clarify what constitutes lactation care and services. By integrating lactation care into the existing allied health regulatory framework, the bill aims to increase access to professional breastfeeding support across the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts law to formally define cognitive rehabilitation services for individuals with acquired brain injuries, such as those caused by strokes or traumatic brain injuries. It establishes specific definitions for various therapies, including cognitive rehabilitation therapy and community reintegration services, to ensure clarity in how these treatments are described and delivered. The legislation aims to create a standardized framework for these services, which are designed to help patients relearn essential daily living skills and safely return to their communities. By updating the legal definitions within Chapter 32A of the General Laws, the bill provides a clearer basis for insurance coverage and service delivery for this specific population.