Rep. Kay Khan

Senate, July 31, 2024 -- The committee on Senate Ways and Means, to whom was referred the Senate Bill to promote nature-based approaches for resiliency and climate change adaptation throughout the Commonwealth (Senate, No. 458),- reports, recommending that the same ought to pass with an amendment substituting a new draft with the same title (Senate, No. 2922).

The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two branches with reference to the Senate amendment of the House Bill relative to treatments and coverage for substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure (House, No. 4758), reports recommending passage of the accompanying bill (House, No. 5143).

Maddy summaryThis bill amends state insurance and health laws to improve pain management and substance use disorder treatment for public employees and medical professionals. It requires group insurance plans for state workers to cover non-opioid pain treatments, such as acupuncture and behavioral therapy, without needing prior approval, and mandates that opioid reversal drugs and recovery coach services be fully covered with no deductibles or copayments. Additionally, the legislation mandates that doctors and pharmacists complete specific training on non-opioid pain alternatives and overdose prevention, while requiring pharmacies in high-overdose areas to maintain a continuous supply of opioid antagonists.

Maddy summaryThis law changes the retirement rules for retired police officers in Springfield who work as special police officers. Previously, these officers faced the same age limits as regular police officers, but this bill sets their maximum age at 70. Additionally, the law ensures that their pay is not reduced after they turn 65, removing a previous deduction rule. It applies only to those appointed under a specific 2018 law and takes effect immediately upon passing.

By Representative Murray of Milford, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Brian W. Murray and others relative to disqualification from operating commercial motor vehicles. Transportation.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates residency rules for police, fire, and fire alarm division employees in Newton, Massachusetts. It requires new hires to live within the city limits or up to 35 miles away, a distance that can be adjusted based on collective bargaining agreements. The measurement of this distance is calculated from the nearest border of Newton to the nearest border of the town where the employee resides. These changes apply to anyone appointed to these roles after the law takes effect.

By Representative Kassner of Hamilton, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Kristin E. Kassner relative to ecological restoration projects. Environment and Natural Resources.

Maddy summaryThis law, known as Ollie's Law, strengthens regulations for commercial kennels and boarding facilities to improve animal safety and public oversight. It requires these businesses to obtain licenses that are contingent on passing inspections, limits the number of animals allowed based on facility capacity, and mandates annual reviews of license fees and terms. The bill also establishes a formal process for citizens to petition local officials if a kennel causes a nuisance, such as excessive barking, and requires the state to create detailed rules covering staff training, injury reporting, and emergency planning. Additionally, kennels must maintain records of all dogs in their care and face specific fines for operating without a license or after a license has been revoked.

By Representatives Khan of Newton and Sousa of Framingham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2349) of Kay Khan, Priscila S. Sousa and others relative to health education in women's correctional institutions. Public Safety and Homeland Security.

By Representatives Khan of Newton and Sousa of Framingham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2350) of Kay Khan, Priscila S. Sousa and others for legislation to further amend the anti-shackling statute for incarcerated pregnant women. Public Safety and Homeland Security.