Sen. John Cronin

By Representative Kilcoyne of Clinton and Senator Cronin, a joint petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2571) of Meghan Kilcoyne and John J. Cronin (by vote of the town) that the town of Lancaster be authorized to exempt the position of police chief in said town from the provisions of the civil service law. Public Service. [Local Approval Received.]

Maddy summaryThis bill expands warranty protections for wheelchairs in Massachusetts by updating state laws to cover a broader range of consumers, including those who lease devices or receive them through insurance. It defines key terms such as "consumer" to include lessees and individuals who did not pay out of pocket, while also clarifying what constitutes a "defective" product and listing "collateral costs" like rental fees and shipping as reimbursable expenses during repairs. The legislation ensures that manufacturers and dealers are held accountable for fixing or replacing wheelchairs that fail to meet safety and performance standards, providing clearer recourse for people with disabilities who rely on these mobility aids.

Senate, January 2, 2024 -- The committee on Senate Ways and Means, to whom was referred the Senate Bill expanding wheelchair warranty protections for consumers with disabilities (Senate, No. 152),- reports, recommending that the same ought to pass with an amendment substituting a new draft with the same title (Senate, No. 2541).

Senate, October 26, 2023 -- Text of the Senate Bill to increase access to disposable menstrual products (Senate, No. 2491) (being the text of Senate, No. 2481, printed as amended)

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new health coverage program for children and young adults under 21 in Massachusetts who currently lack access to MassHealth solely because of their immigration status. It allows these individuals to receive comprehensive health benefits similar to those available to other residents who meet standard income and age requirements, regardless of whether they qualify for federal funding. The law mandates that the state maximize available federal money for these benefits but ensures that eligibility is not dependent on receiving that federal support.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new program in Massachusetts to provide comprehensive health coverage for children and young adults under 21 who are residents but currently ineligible for MassHealth solely due to their immigration status. The legislation ensures that these individuals receive the same benefits as other residents of similar age and income levels, regardless of whether federal funding is available to support the program. By adding a new section to the state's health laws, the bill directs the executive office of health and human services to maximize federal contributions while guaranteeing that coverage is not dependent on those funds.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Massachusetts state law to increase transparency within the pharmaceutical industry by adding new definitions and expanding the scope of entities subject to regulation. It specifically includes pharmaceutical manufacturing companies and pharmacy benefit managers in existing reporting and oversight requirements, ensuring they are held accountable alongside other industry players. The legislation also mandates that these companies and managers pay for the state commission's costs in analyzing drug spending trends, with a cap of $2,000 annually per entity. Additionally, the bill requires the inclusion of specific representatives from the pharmaceutical and pharmacy benefit manager sectors in future advisory committees.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires three types of facilities in Massachusetts to provide free disposable menstrual products to people who menstruate. Specifically, it mandates that temporary housing providers, such as shelters and safe houses, supply these items without cost. Additionally, the law requires all primary and secondary schools to offer free menstrual products in restrooms, and it orders correctional facilities, including jails and prisons, to provide these products to incarcerated individuals. The legislation aims to ensure convenient and non-stigmatizing access to sanitary napkins, tampons, and liners in these specific settings.

Senate, October 19, 2023 -- The committee on Senate Ways and Means, to whom was referred the Senate Bill to increase access to disposable menstrual products (Senate, No. 1381),- reports, recommending that the same ought to pass with an amendment substituting a new draft with the same title (Senate, No. 2481).

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a legal right for home buyers in Massachusetts to have their prospective homes inspected by a licensed professional within ten days of an offer being accepted. It prohibits sellers and their agents from forcing buyers to waive this inspection right, with the exception of sales conducted at licensed auctions. The legislation also prevents sellers from accepting offers from buyers who explicitly state they intend to skip or limit the inspection, unless the buyer is a close family member of the seller. By amending existing state laws, the act ensures that buyers can evaluate critical components like the roof, foundation, and electrical systems before finalizing a purchase.