By Mr. Driscoll, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1965) of William J. Driscoll, Jr. for legislation to support disaster response and broadband infrastructure affordability by allowing certain tax exemptions. Revenue.
This bill establishes the Workforce Preparation Robotics grant program to fund robotics and STEM activities in public and charter schools. It provides specific grant amounts based on school level (elementary/middle/high), whether a school has an existing robotics program, and the competition type (e.g., FIRST, VEX, Science Olympiad), with higher funding for schools without established programs. Schools in Cape Cod and Western Massachusetts receive priority, and applicants must commit to registering with approved robotics organizations. Grants are awarded annually based on available funding, with applications due by June 1st for the following academic year.
HD 1301 prohibits installing or using location-tracking devices in motor vehicles without the consent of the driver and all passengers. Exceptions include law enforcement using devices during investigations under legal protocols, parents monitoring minor children in vehicles they own, businesses tracking their own company vehicles, and recovering stolen vehicles with police notice. The law defines "electronic mobile tracking devices" as tools that reveal location via phone or computer. It explicitly excludes manufacturer-installed systems, rental company tracking with permission, and insurance company monitoring with consent. Violations are punishable under existing criminal harassment laws.
This bill amends Massachusetts' civil defense law to explicitly address cyber threats. It adds definitions for "Critical Infrastructure" (including election systems, transportation, utilities, and water/gas/electric systems), "Cybersecurity Attack" (disrupting or stealing data), and "Cyber System" (networked hardware/software). These definitions clarify that the state's civil defense framework now covers cyberattacks targeting government systems or critical infrastructure deemed at risk by the governor. The law directly affects state agencies and the operators of essential infrastructure sectors by establishing a legal basis for response planning.
By Mr. Eldridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2133) of James B. Eldridge for legislation to protect the privacy of library user data. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
Tags
Privacy
HD 2051 creates a special commission to investigate how social media affects children's mental health and safety in Massachusetts. The commission, including health officials, educators, advocates, and youth representatives, will study risks like cyberbullying, addictive features, and harmful content, and examine how social media algorithms work. It will also identify best practices for social media companies to protect children and develop recommendations for parents, schools, and public awareness. The commission must submit its final report and draft legislation by December 31, 2026.
By Representative Madaro of Boston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 433) of Adrian C. Madaro and others relative to diagnostic, service or repair information and services for digital electronic products. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.
By Representative MacGregor of Boston, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of William F. MacGregor for legislation to regulate social media feeds. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.
By Mr. O'Connor, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 306) of Patrick M. O'Connor for legislation to invest in Massachusetts citizens. Economic Development and Emerging Technologies.
By Mr. O'Connor, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 424) of Patrick M. O'Connor and Mark C. Montigny for legislation to regulate the use of mobile communication devices in educational institutions. Education.
