H 2211 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act modernizing the six fundamental rights

This bill (HD 1551) updates rights for people in correctional or care facilities by modernizing existing provisions. It directly affects residents by adding access to video calls with transcription, personal devices (like phones/computers), email, and gender-affirming care items (e.g., binders, period products). Key mechanisms include requiring facilities to allow reasonable daily use of personal devices, enabling email communication, expanding visitor rights to include peer supporters/recovery coaches, and creating a fund from fines for facility improvements. Enforcement includes $100+ fines for repeated violations and new staff positions to handle complaints. The changes aim to align facility policies with current communication technology and inclusive care standards.
Sub-Topics: Substance Abuse
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Feb 2025
Senate Passage
Feb 2025
Governor
Introduced Feb 27, 2025 Last action Mar 12, 2026
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
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 27, 2025
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 27, 2025
Committee
Referred to the committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery
lower
1 primary · 11 co-sponsors

Sponsors