H 170 Massachusetts House · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act requiring licensure for use of graduated electronic decelerators

This bill requires anyone in Massachusetts who uses a graduated electronic decelerator to obtain a state license. The device applies an electrical stimulus to the skin of people with disabilities to change their behavior. To get a license, individuals must complete a training program covering proper use, safety, alternatives like de-escalation, and how to recognize abuse, followed by a skills exam. Facilities operating in the state are prohibited from allowing unlicensed personnel to use these devices, and violations can result in fines of up to $500.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Sep 5, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors