Rep. Jay Barrows

Maddy summaryThis bill amends state laws to clarify definitions of key terms like biosimilars, brand name drugs, and generic drugs, ensuring consistent language for pharmaceutical regulation. It expands the scope of entities subject to oversight by including self-insured health plans and explicitly defining pharmaceutical manufacturing companies and pharmacy benefit managers. The legislation also requires pharmaceutical companies to provide early notice of new products or price increases while protecting the confidentiality of their internal business and clinical data. Additionally, it adjusts the assessment fees charged to these industries, setting a minimum rate of 25 percent of the appropriated amount.

Senate, December 27, 2024 -- Report of the committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two branches with reference to the House amendment to the Senate relative to pharmaceutical access, costs and transparency (Senate, No. 2520) (amended by the House all after the enacting clause and inserting in place thereof the text of House document numbered 4910; and by striking out the title and inserting in place thereof the following title: “An Act promoting access and affordability of prescription drugs.”),-- reports, a “Bill relative to pharmaceutical access, costs and transparency” (Senate, No. 3012).

By Representative Jones of North Reading, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3062) of Bradley H. Jones, Jr., and others relative to the procuring of information technology goods or services by state agencies. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows the state's capital asset management commissioner to remove or change land use restrictions on specific parcels in Foxborough that are currently reserved for recreational and public safety purposes. In exchange for this change, the town must agree to place a new restriction requiring the land to be used for housing, which can include market-rate or senior housing. The legislation also clarifies that the town of Foxborough is responsible for covering all associated costs, such as surveys and legal fees, for any transactions related to these land changes.

By Representative Barrows of Mansfield, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of F. Jay Barrows relative to authorizing an extended term of agreement between the town of Foxborough and the town of Sharon for municipal sewer service. Municipalities and Regional Government.

By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Paul R. Feeney and F. Jay Barrows for legislation to establish a sick leave bank for Jonathan Turner, an employee of the Norfolk County sheriff's office. Public Service.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes adding a new section to the Massachusetts Constitution to ban the use of eminent domain for private commercial or economic development projects. Under this amendment, the government would no longer be able to seize private property for such purposes, as these actions would not be considered a valid public use. The change would directly affect property owners by removing the legal mechanism that currently allows the state to take their land for private business ventures. If passed by the legislature and approved by voters, this measure would permanently alter the state's ability to acquire property for private economic gain.

By Representative Cahill of Lynn and Senator Lovely, a joint petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Daniel Cahill and Joan B. Lovely for legislation to further regulate insurance claims. Financial Services.

By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Bruce E. Tarr, Peter J. Durant, Ryan C. Fattman, Patrick M. O'Connor and other members of the General Court for legislation to enhance the authority of courts to protect public safety. The Judiciary.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows the town of Foxborough to rename its governing board from "Board of Selectmen" to "Select Board." It requires local approval, which Foxborough has already secured through a town vote. The change is purely procedural and does not alter the board's duties, powers, or responsibilities. The bill is limited to Foxborough and affects only that town's local governance structure.