Rep. Matt Muratore

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Hanson Milone Act, updates Massachusetts boating laws to include canoes and kayaks in safety regulations and establishes a new mandatory safety education program for motorboat and personal watercraft operators born on or after January 1, 1989. The law requires these individuals to complete an online course and pass an examination to receive a lifetime safety certificate, though they may be supervised by an adult with a valid certificate or hold certain professional licenses as exemptions. It also clarifies definitions for various watercraft and enforces specific rules regarding commercial fishing vessels and non-resident operators.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the state's health insurance laws to update the names of various regulatory agencies and redefine key terms used in market reviews. It specifically reorganizes the Department of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation by clarifying which divisions fall under it and renaming the commissioner of insurance to the commissioner of health insurance. The legislation also introduces new definitions for concepts such as "health equity," "private equity companies," and "significant equity investors" to provide clearer guidance for oversight. Additionally, it establishes a new "benchmark cycle" for monitoring projected changes in total healthcare expenditures over a three-year period. These changes aim to modernize the legal framework governing the state's health insurance market and improve transparency in regulatory oversight.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission by redefining key terms and adjusting the composition of its governing board. It introduces new definitions for concepts such as "health equity," "significant equity investor," and various healthcare entities like pharmacy benefit managers and private equity companies to clarify who is regulated. The legislation also changes how the commission's board is formed, specifying that members will be appointed by the governor, state officials, and legislative leaders rather than solely by the Department of Public Health. Additionally, the bill repeals previous sections related to medical assistance divisions and modifies the oversight structure for the commission. These changes aim to refine the legal framework used to review and regulate the state's healthcare market.

Maddy summaryThis law prohibits the sale or transfer of dogs and cats that are younger than eight weeks old, with each violation punishable by a fine of up to $100. It also bans the selling or trading of these animals in public places such as roadside areas, parks, flea markets, and parking lots, while allowing exceptions for licensed shelters, animal control facilities, and educational exhibitions. Local animal control officers or police are responsible for enforcing these rules, and fines increase for repeat offenses of selling animals in public spaces.

Maddy summaryThis law allows the town of Plymouth to issue two extra licenses for off-premises alcohol sales, such as takeout or delivery, within specific areas known as Precinct 9 and Precinct 17. These new licenses are intended to support local economic development and must be clearly marked with their corresponding precinct names. The town retains full control over granting these permits, including the ability to transfer them only within the designated zones and to cancel them if the business fails to meet tax or fee requirements. All new licenses must be issued within three years of the law taking effect, after which the town may continue to renew them for existing businesses.

By Representative Muratore of Plymouth, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Mathew J. Muratore, Susan L. Moran and Kathleen R. LaNatra (by vote of the town) for legislation to establish a Plymouth land bank in the town of Plymouth. Housing. [Local Approval Received.]

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.

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.

Senate, January 4, 2024 -- Text of the Senate Bill expanding wheelchair warranty protections for consumers with disabilities (Senate, No. 2546) (being the text of Senate, No. 2541, printed as amended)