State Legislative Endorsements

The Legislative Workgroup studies the current Congressional, State Senate and House legislation to determine which bills align with the Dignity Alliance mission. A bill should contribute to one of our goals. The membership is notified of any bills of interest, and is given the opportunity to sign on.

Please advocate for our endorsed bills by contacting your legislators.

Visit the Advocacy Page for a detailed list of our goals.

Massachusetts State House

How to use Tables (below)

  • A table can be resorted by clicking on the headings, such as Bill Number. Click the heading again, and the table will sort the opposite way.
  • The Search will present all bills that match your input in any field.
  • Use the buttons to download the table.

2023 MA Bills

13 bills have been sponsored by Dignity Alliance Massachusetts that would improve the lives of older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers.

DignityMA has also endorsed a number of legislative proposals sponsored by other organizations.

All bills listed have been endorsed by Dignity Alliance Massachusetts.

Read the Dignity Alliance Legislative Package 2023 – 2024 (pdf) (posted 3/16) to learn how the state legislature can make our priorities become actual improvements in long term services and supports.

2023 - 2024 State Legislature Bills

SenateHouseTitleCommitteeLead Sponsor(s)More InfoGoal
~H0623An Act to improve quality and safety in nursing homesJoint Committee on Elder AffairsCarol Doherty
Ruth Balser
Christopher Hendricks
Rodney Elliott
James Hawkins
** DignityMA Sponsored **

DignityMA Testimony for H623.pdf
1
S0377H0633An Act relative to transparency and accountability in nursing homesJoint Committee on Elder AffairsPatricia D. Jehlen
Mark C. Montigny
James B. Eldridge
Sally Kerans
** DignityMA Sponsored **

DignityMA Testimony for S377 and H633.pdf
1
S0390~An Act to ensure resident safety within assisted living facilities (*)Joint Committee on Elder AffairsMark C. Montigny
Paul A. Schmid, III
Christopher Hendricks
James B. Eldridge
** DignityMA Sponsored **
This act requires assisted living residences to have and maintain automatic external defibrillation devices and train staff in the use of such equipment, updates a reference in the membership in the Assisted Living Advisory Council to recognize the creation of the secretary of housing, and provides for a human rights committee in each ALR to protect the rights of residents
2
~H0142An Act relative to community living for older adults and people with disabilitiesJoint Committee on Children,
Families and Persons with Disabilities
Josh S. Cutler
Brian Murray
Carol Doherty
James Eldridge
Vanna Howard
** DignityMA Sponsored **
This act encourages participation of older adults and people with disabilities to participate in community life by amending the Open Meeting law to ensure that these groups have access to local and state government activities.
Subject to local acceptance, the bill allows reduction in property taxes to keep living in communities affordable, provides Architectural Access Board regulations to apply to renovation as well as new construction to promote greater accessibility, protects homes of older adults and people with disabilities from being acquired in payment of MassHealth costs, encourages the construction of accessory dwelling for older adults and people with disabilities, authorizes personal care homes for older adults, and prevents bullying in public housing.
Finally, it establishes a special commission on alternatives to arrest and incarceration for individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities. This has been problematic for individuals who act out in public, but are generally not responsible for their actions.
Police sometimes misjudge the situation, and the incident can escalate to the detriment of both the individual and the police. The commission will look at solutions to this problem.
3
~H2874An Act promoting accessible dwellings for older adults and people with disabilities to remain in their communitiesJoint Committee on RevenueKate Lipper-Garabedian
Ruth B. Balser
James B. Eldridge
** DignityMA Sponsored **
This bill encourages home modification for seniors to help them remain in their homes as they age, promotes expanding the availability of adaptive housing for consumers with disabilities, mobility impairments and older adults, expands the authority of the Architectural Barriers Board to cover renovations as well as new construction to promote accessibility, and establishes a livable home modernization program.
3
~H1241An Act to improve discharge opportunities from acute care facilitiesJoint Committee on Health Care FinancingLindsay N. Sabadosa
James Eldridge
** DignityMA Sponsored **
This bill promotes a more robust hospital discharge program requiring consideration of placements in the community with appropriate services and support, rather than always referring patients to nursing homes.
3
S1952H2752An Act to improve long-term care staffing and dignity for caregiversJoint Committee on RevenueBruce E. Tarr
James B. Eldridge
Manny Cruz
** DignityMA Sponsored **
This bill would establish a career ladder for home care workers, create a family care- giver tax credit, authorize spouses to serve as paid caregivers, strengthen emergency preparedness for home care workers and protect the health and safety of home care workers.
4
0S403~An Act to improve resilience in older adults and people with disabilities during public health, environmental or technological emergenciesJoint Committee on Elder AffairsBruce E. Tarr
James B. Eldridge
** DignityMA Sponsored **
This bill provides that in the event of a public health emergency or other natural or technological disaster, the secretaries of health and human service and elder affairs shall coordinate the response of the public health officer, emergency responders, and public safety personnel relative to protecting older adults and people with disabilities in (1) demographic, (2) physical, (3) psychological, (4) spiritual, and (5) socio-cultural factors.
The act would direct councils on aging that receive state funding develop emergency plans to protect older adults and the disabled in their communities. The bill directs the executive office of housing to develop a grant program, subject to appropriation, to make homes of older adults and people with disabilities more resilient to disasters and to improve home safety.
5
S0396H0622An Act to establish the office of elder advocateJoint Committee on Elder AffairsJosh Cutler
Jake Oliveira
Brian Ashe
Patrick O’Connor
Michael Moore
Kathleen LaNatra
Smitty Pignatelli
Linsdsay Sabadosa
James Arena-DeRosa,
Carmine Gentile
Carol Doherty
Paul McMurtry
Mindy Domb
Vanna Howard
James Eldridge
Pat Jehlen
** DignityMA Sponsored **
The bill is new this term, and establishes an office of elder advocate within, but not subject to the control of, the Executive Office of Elder Affairs with the authority to respond to complaints for residents or staff of nursing homes, rest homes, as well as assisted living residences.
It is modelled on the current statute that established the Office of Child Advocate. The office has the authority to initiate a complaint on its own without need for one to be submitted if it believes there may be probable cause of a violation of the rights of residents.
If the office is established, it will add an important new tool to support consumers and staff in long-term care, and supplement the oversight of the Department of Public Health (responsible for nursing homes and rest homes) and the Executive Office of Elder Affairs (responsible for assisted living residences).
1
S1922H2770An Act to ease the tax burden on older adults, people with disabilities and their caregiversJoint Committee on RevenueCarol Doherty
Jake Oliveira
Alan Silvia
Rodney Elliott
Patrick O’Connor
Paul Feeney
James Eldridge
** DignityMA Sponsored **
The bill includes easing taxes on older adults, as recommended in the plan proposed by the Baker administration, including expanded eligibility for the senior circuit breaker program that benefits elder home owners and renters.
In addition, the bill includes a tax credit for family caregivers. Caregivers provide a variety of services for senior citizens and people with disabilities every year. Often, these caregivers are taking care of their parents or loved ones and will pay for medical expenses with their own money. Such dedicated caregivers would be eligible to receive this caretaker tax break and deduction. These deductions help defray the cost of taking care of loved ones, allowing the best care possible.
3
~H0655An Act requiring dignity, privacy, and safety for residents in nursing homes and rest homesJoint Committee on Elder AffairsThomas P. Walsh
Rodney M. Elliott
James B. Eldridge
** DignityMA Sponsored **

DignityMA Testimony for H655.pdf
1
S0399~An Act protecting the rights of older adults and people with disabilitiesJoint Committee on Elder AffairsRebecca L. Rausch** DignityMA Sponsored **
This bill improves enforcement of the rights of older adults and people with disabilities by making the rights of nursing home residents consistent with rights granted by the departments of mental health and developmental disabilities, establishes a human rights protection organization in each nursing home, and directs the department of public health to train human rights committees and to oversee the program.
1
S2012H2987An Act to establish a COVID-19 Remembrance DayJoint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory OversightPatricia D. Jehlen
Ruth Balser
Rebecca L. Rausch
James B. Eldridge
** DignityMA Sponsored **
This bill creates a new provision in the general laws, requiring the governor to annually issues a proclamation to remember the tragedy of the COVID-19 pandemic, to honor victims and survivors and their families who suffered from this pandemic, especially residents of nursing homes, and to take stock in the collective ability of public and private organizations and individuals on preparedness in the Commonwealth for future events that result in a declaration of a state of emergency.
1
S0109H201An Act relative to supported decision-making agreements for certain adults with disabilitiesJoint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesJoan B. Lovely, Sean Garballey, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., John F. Keenan, Christopher M. Markey, Vanna Howard, Marc T. Lombardo(endorsed by DignityMA in 2021-2022)
2/8/2024 - Bill extended to May 2
S0726H1168An Act protecting the homes of seniors and disabled people on MassHealthJoint Committee on Health Care FinancingJoanne M. Comerford, Mindy Domb, Jack Patrick Lewis, Mathew J. Muratore, Christine P. Barber(endorsed by DignityMA in 2021-2022)
Estate-Recovery-fact-sheet-23-24.pdf

2/8/2024 - Favorable Senate Ways and Means
S0749~An Act relative to pharmaceutical access, costs and transparencyJoint Committee on Health Care FinancingCindy F. Friedman, Rebecca L. Rausch, Susannah M. Whipps, Joanne M. Comerford(endorsed by DignityMA in 2021-2022)
2/8/2024 - Engrossed in Senate and House Ways and Means
S0152H0378An Act expanding wheelchair warranty protections for consumers with disabilitiesJoint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional LicensureJohn J. Cronin, Jack Patrick Lewis, Kimberly N. Ferguson, Carmine Lawrence Gentile(endorsed by DignityMA in 2021-2022)
2/8/2024 - Engrossed in Senate, House referred to Health Care Financing
S0756H1202An Act preserving special needs trusts for disabled seniorsJoint Committee on Health Care FinancingPatricia D. Jehlen, Susannah M. Whipps, Brian W. Murray, Patrick M. O'Connor, Kate Hogan(endorsed by DignityMA in 2021-2022)
Favorable to House Ways and Means
S0108H0188An Act establishing guardians as providers of medical care to support the rights of incapacitated personsJoint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesJoan B. Lovely, Vanna Howard, Sally P. Kerans(endorsed by DignityMA in 2021-2022)
Mass. Guardianship Policy Institute
S1434H3303An Act establishing the human service transportation (HST) consumer advisory boardJoint Committee on Public HealthSusan Moran, Mindy Domb , Sarah K. Peake creates an HST consumer advisory board to ensure that consumers of the nonemergency human service transportation system have a formal opportunity and process to share concerns, insights and suggestions to ensure that the HST service is safe and reliable for all who depend on the service to get to medical appointments and other community services.
S0121H3302Resolve reviving and continuing the non-emergency human services transportation task forceJoint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities,
committee on Transportation
Susan L. Moran, James B. Eldridge, Carmine Gentile, Jacob Oliveira, Mindy Domb , Sarah K. Peake extends the HST Task Force, which by statute ended on December 1, 2022. The extension would afford greater opportunity to continue the process of program improvement and feedback, begun by the Task Force in its first year.
~H0148An Act establishing a livable home modification grant programJoint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesCarol A. DohertyResearch tells us that elders and those with disabilities can look forward to a better quality of life by staying in their own home. Patterned after a successful Rhode Island bill, this legislation establishes a grant program for the purpose of assisting seniors and those with disabilities in making home modifications that will allow them to remain in their homes. The grant is equivalent to, at maximum, 50% of the total costs of the modification not to exceed $5,000.
~No Assigned Number yetAn Act establishing a tax exemption for pension income for certain senior citizens of the Commonwealth Carol DohertyAn Act establishing a tax exemption for pension income for certain senior citizens of the Commonwealth (new file); Rep. Carol Doherty; As more and more seniors are living on pension incomes and as their tax burden often increases beyond their ability to pay for essential needs such as food, medications and rents or mortgages this bill proposes to alleviate some of this burden by establishing a tax exemption for those over the age of 65 with pension income, whereby the first $20,000 of income derived from said pension would be exempted. After 20 years of payment (at age 85) 100% of income derived from pensions would be exempted.
S0383H0629An Act to improve Alzheimer's and dementia care in Senior Care Options programsJoint Committee on Elder AffairsJason M. Lewis, Michael J. Barrett, Vanna Howard, Brian M. Ashe, Danielle W. Gregoirerequire all Massachusetts Senior Care Options (SCO) plans, serving our most vulnerable populations, to provide comprehensive care planning services to SCO members that have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias;
S1408No assigned number yetAn Act to strengthen the direct care and dementia workforceJoint Committee on Public HealthPaul W. Mark, Vanna Howard, Jack Patrick Lewis, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., Tram Nguyen As the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s in Massachusetts grows, there will be an increased demand for home and community-based services as well as long-term care services, which also means an increased demand for direct care workers. This bill incentivizes careers in the direct care and dementia workforce, as well as provides opportunities for career development;
S1380H2178An Act to strengthen our public health infrastructure to address alzheimer’s and all dementiaJoint Committee on Public HealthAdam Gomez, Vanna Howard, Jack Patrick Lewis, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr. , Denise C. Garlick Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias are a growing public health crisis. There were 130,000 individuals living with Alzheimer’s Disease in Massachusetts as of 2020, and that number is expected to grow to 150,000 by 2025. This bill increases public awareness of Alzheimer's and other dementias; requires the collection of data on Alzheimer's and other dementia in Massachusetts, including racial and ethnic disparities; and creates a state Dementia Care
~H0614An Act relative to early-onset Alzheimer's diseaseJoint Committee on Elder AffairsBruce J. Ayersensure services provided through the MassHealth Frail Elder Home and Community-Based Services waiver are made available to persons diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease regardless of their age, if they are otherwise eligible for such services.
S0755H1195An Act clarifying rate setting processes for home health and home care servicesJoint Committee on Health Care FinancingPatricia D. Jehlen, Carmine Lawrence Gentile, Vanna Howard, Susannah M. WhippsContact Info:
Home Care Alliance: hcollins@thinkhomecare.org,
Home Care Aide Council: jwattfaqir@hcacouncil.org,
Mass Home Care: lisap@tves.org;
S0380H0649An Act to improve Massachusetts home careJoint Committee on Elder AffairsPatricia D. Jehlen, Thomas M. Stanley, Joanne M. Comerford, Jack Patrick Lewis, Michael J. Moran Currently, Massachusetts does not license non-medical home care services. These services are essential to the Commonwealth’s long-term services and supports system and allow individuals to remain safely in their residence. The Enough Pay to Stay Coalition supports the creation of a licensure system that would establish baseline standards for agencies, to ensure a quality network of providers for consumers and keeping services affordable for those who rely on them. Contact Info:
Home Care Aide Council: jwattfaqir@hcacouncil.org.
Home Care Alliance: hcollins@thinkhomecare.org
Mass Home Care: lisap@tves.org;
S0379H0648An Act to improve quality and oversight of long-term careCOMMITTEE ON ELDER AFFAIRSRep; Thomas Stanley and Sen. Patricia JehlenNOTE: This is the so-called Comprehensive Bill that went to House Ways and Means last session. Dignity Alliance supports it with recommended improvements.
S0119H0141An Act to Expand Nicky’s Law to Day Habilitation Programs; An Act updating Nicky’s Law to protect individuals with disabilities in MassHealth day habilitation programsCOMMITTEE ON CHILDREN, FAMILIES, AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIESRepresentative Josh Cutler, Senator Mike MooreThis bill will require MassHealth Day Habilitation providers to use the abuse registry. This expands the protections of Nicky’s Law to those in MassHealth Day Habilitation. This is priority refiled bill be The ARC of Massachusetts.
S0107H0206An Act relative to cueing and supervision in the PCA programCOMMITTEE ON CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIESRepresentative James O’Day; Senator Joan LovelyThis bill will require the allowance of cueing and supervision, in the PCA program, as a covered service for those eligible members who need it.
S0904H1296An Act relative to accessory dwelling unitsCOMMITTEE ON HOUSINGRepresentative Christine Barber, Senator Bruce TarrThis bill will allow the creation of accessory dwelling units for people with disabilities and older adults with an allowance for the owner occupier to be a special needs trust.
S0097H0128An Act ensuring equal access to medical treatments essential for people with a developmental disability, intellectual disability, or autism; ABA MassHealth for Adults;COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN FAMILIES AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIESRepresentative Christine Barber; Senator John KeenanThis bill will require MassHealth to cover applied behavior analysis services for adults with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities, where ABA is a medical necessity. Also included language for Assistive Technology coverage.
S1334H2204An Act to accelerate equity and effectiveness of our local and regional public health systemCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTHMPHA LEGISLATIVE PRIORITY; This is the SAPHE 2.0 bill - which is a bill to assure minimum public health standards in every city/town in MA
(STATEWIDE ACCELERATED PUBLIC HEALTH FOR EVERY COMMUNITY )

Fact Sheet for SAPHE 2.0 (pdf)
S2277H3272An Act to increase regional transit opportunities in the CommonwealthCOMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION; MPHA LEGISLATIVE PRIORITYThis bill is the Regional Transit Authority Advancement Act - which would increase support for RTAs and help stabilize/expand public transportation to the majority of MA residents - including older adults! - who live outside the MBTA service area

Fact Sheet to increase regional transit accessibility(pdf)
S0076H0135An Act establishing basic needs assistance for Massachusetts immigrant residents; a legislative priority for MLRISen. DiDomenico; Rep. Antonio F. D. Cabral; Rep. Judith A. GarciaRestore basic benefits for MA immigrant residents
S0372~An Act directing the administration to amend the Frail Elder Home and Community-Based Waiver to permit eligible older adults to choose to reside in Certified Assisted Living ResidencesCOMMITTEE ON ELDER AFFAIRSSenator Patricia JehlenA MA ALA legislative priority; Directing the administration to amend the home and community-based waiver to permit eligible older adults to choose the option of a certified assisted living residence.
S0083H0171An Act relative to rates for workers providing supports and services for individuals with disabilities.JOINT COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN, FAMILIES, AND DISBALED PERSONSRepresentatives Sean Garballey, Simon Cataldo , Senator Barry FinegoldThis bill has to do with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and MassHealth workforce rate increase. This bill addresses the severe workforce shortage of direct support staff, program managers, and clinicians such as nurses.Workforce
S0748H1192An Act to protect medically fragile childrenJOINT COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE FINANCINGRepresentative Denise Garlick, Senator Cindy FriedmanRequires the state to increase the budget for continuous skilled nursing services in home care and mandates the office of Medicaid to review the wage payment rates established by home health agencies.Workforce
S0753H1180An Act relative to preventing discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of health care.JOINT COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE FINANCINGRepresentative Josh Cutler, Senator Adam GomezProhibits hospitals, medical providers, or other public/private entities from withholding or de-prioritizing lifesaving care due to a person’s perceived quality of life stemming from a disability.Health
S0123H0213An act to increase the safety of individuals with disabilities relying on life-support equipment (Tommy’s Law)JOINT COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN, FAMILIES, AND DISBALED PERSONSRepresentative Dave Rogers, Senator Patrick O’ConnorBill requires appropriate discharge plan review with residential facility nursing staff and increasing accountability for medical equipment monitoring.Health
S1553~An Act building a more accessible MassachusettsJOINT COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITYSenator Michael MooreThis bill addresses loopholes that prevent buildings constructed prior to 1991, and all workplaces to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. It accomplishes this by bringing such buildings under the purview of the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board when newly built or when major renovations take place, ensuring more accessible housing units are available in our state and expanding employment access.Housing / Workplace
~H2291Act expanding the availability of adaptable housing for people with disabilities and seniorsJOINT COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITYRepresentatives Michael Moran, Christine Barber; This bill addresses loopholes that prevent buildings constructed prior to 1991, and all workplaces to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. It accomplishes this by bringing such buildings under the purview of the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board when newly built or when major renovations take place, ensuring more accessible housing units are available in our state, and expanding employment access.Housing / Workplace
S0103H0207Act relative to persons with developmental disabilitiesJOINT COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN, FAMILIES, AND DISBALED PERSONSRepresentative Jim O’Day, Senator Joan LovelyBill adopts the federal definition of developmental disabilities, which includes fetal alcohol syndrome.Equitable Access
S1037H1601An Act prohibiting discrimination against adults with disabilities in Family and Juvenile Court proceedingsJOINT COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARYRepresentative Kay Khan, Senator Joan LovelyParents should not be denied the right to raise their children solely based on their disability. This bill requires courts to use evidence, not assumptions, to determine if a parent’s disability causes actual harm to a child. Courts will have to explain in writing if a parent’s disability is a negative factor in custody and parenting time decisions and assess if the harm can be avoided with accommodations (like adaptive equipment or supportive services).Family
S0083H0171An Act relative to rates for workers providing supports and services for individuals with disabilities.JOINT COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN, FAMILIES, AND DISBALED PERSONSRepresentatives Sean Garballey, Simon Cataldo, Senator Barry FinegoldThis bill has to do with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and MassHealth workforce rate increase. This bill addresses the severe workforce shortage of direct support staff, program managers, and clinicians such as nurses.
S2025H3031An Act relative to the 401(k) CORE planJoint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory OversightRepresentative Ann-Margaret Ferrante, Senator Joan LovelyAn Act Regarding the 401k CORE Plan, would expand the Connecting Organizations to Retirement program run through the Treasurer's office, which gives non-profit employees a retirement savings option; sponsored by AARP
S0624H0996An Act to encourage retirement planningJoint Committee on Financial ServicesRepresentative Paul J. Donato, Sal N. DiDomenicoAn Act To Encourage Retirement Planning, would go further, establishing the Massachusetts Secure Choice Savings Program, a retirement savings option that would be available to both for profit and nonprofit workers who lack a way to save through their paycheck; sponsored by AARP
S1547H2397An Act relative to parole review for aging incarcerated peopleJoint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland SecurityRepresentative Lindsay N. Sabadosa, Senator Liz MirandaSponsored by Prisoners Legal Services of Massachusetts
S0764H2932An Act to establish the family caregiving tax creditJoint Committee on RevenueRepresentative David M. Rogers, Senator Jason Lewiscreates a $1,500 tax credit for costs associated with taking care of elderly or disabled family members; sponsored by multiple organizations
S1048H1682An Act relative to summary process and rental assistanceJoint Committee on the JudiciaryRepresentatives Samantha Montaño, Peter Capano, Senator Liz MirandaProvide housing stability by preventing unnecessary evictions that may be avoided through mutual resolution, therefore it is hereby declared to be an emergency law, necessary for the immediate preservation of the public safety and health
S0385H0634An Act relative to expanding the availability of personal care homes for older adultsJoint Committee on Elder AffairsRepresentative Sally Kerans, Senator Joan Lovelysponsored by multiple organizations
S2024H3040An act to modernize participation in public meetingsJoint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory OversightRepresentative Denise Garlick, Senator Jason Lewis
S1468H2243An Act relative to certified medication aidesJoint Committee on Public HealthSenator Bruce Tarr, Rep. Brian Murray
S0175H1232An Act relative to family members serving as careJoint Committee on Health Care FinancingSenator Joan Lovely
Representative James O'Day
DignityMA Testimony for S775 and H1232.pdf
S0115
and
S0375
H0626An Act increasing the personal care allowance for long term care residentsJoint Committee on Elder AffairsSenator Patricia Jehlen
Representative Thomas Stanley
DignityMA Testimony for S115.pdf
S1927H2733Senate 1927: An Act relative to home modifications for seniors

H2733: An Act to provide an income tax exemption for families caring for their elderly relatives.
Joint Committee on RevenueSenator Mike Rush
Representative Tackey Chan
DignityMA Testimony for S1927 and H2733.pdf
~H0615An Act to ensure the quality of care in nursing homesJoint Committee on Elder AffairsRepresentative Ruth Balser
~H0616An Act strengthening the Attorney General’s tools to protect nursing home residents and other patients from abuse and neglectJoint Committee on Elder AffairsRepresentative Ruth Balser
Representative Andrea Campbell
~H0628An Act relative to certified medical directors at skilled nursing facilitiesJoint Committee on Elder AffairsRepresentative Kenneth Gordon
Representative Aaron Saunders
~H0637An Act establishing an LGBTQI long-term care facility bill of rightsJoint Committee on Elder AffairsRepresentative Jack Lewis
Representative Sarah Peake
S0364~An Act relative to promoting the betterment of resident health and safety in long term care facilitiesJoint Committee on Elder AffairsSenator Julian Cyr and Representative Angelo Puppolo
S0378~An Act relative to small house nursing homesJoint Committee on Elder AffairsSenator Patricia Jehlen
S0384~An Act strengthening the Attorney General’s tools to protect nursing home residents and other patients from abuse and neglectJoint Committee on Elder AffairsSenator Jason M. Lewis
Representative Andrea Joy Campbell

Archive 2021-2022 MA Bills

Bill No.TitleGoalCommitteeLead Sponsor(s)More Info
S0131Resolve Establishing a Special Commission on the Treatment of Intellectually and Developmentally Disable Offenders in the Criminal Justice System3Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesSen. Lovely

S131_endorse.pdf
S2104An Act updating the Open Meeting Law to support remote participation3State Administration and Regulatory OversightSen. Rausch
Rep. O’Day
(H3213)
S2104_3213_endorse.pdf
H3213An Act updating the Open Meeting Law to support remote participation3State Administration and Regulatory OversightSen. Rausch
Rep. O’Day
(S2104)
S2104_3213_endorse.pdf
H0227An Act to support equal access to community care for elders and the disabled3Health Care FinancingSen. Comerford
Rep. Higgins
(S748)
S748_H227_endorse.pdf
S0748An Act to support equal access to community care for elders and the disabled3Health Care FinancingSen. Comerford
Rep. Higgins
(H227)
S748_H227_endorse.pdf
S0404An Act to Strengthen Emergency Preparedness for Home Care Workers5Elder AffairsSen. Friedman
Rep. Santiago
(H756)
S404_H756_endorse.pdf
H0756An Act to Strengthen Emergency Preparedness for Home Care Workers5Elder AffairsSen. Friedman
Rep. Santiago
(S404)
S404_H756_endorse.pdf
S0773An Act to Preserve Special Needs Trusts for Disabled Seniors3Health Care FinancingSen. Jehlen
Rep. Hogan
(H1274)
S773_H1274_endorse.pdf
H1274An Act to Preserve Special Needs Trusts for Disabled Seniors3Health Care FinancingSen. Jehlen
Rep. Hogan
(S773)
S773_H1274_endorse.pdf
S0403An Act to Improve Nursing Home Job Standards and Care Quality4Elder AffairsSen. Feeney
Rep. Balser

(H724)
S403_H724_endorse.pdf
H0724An Act to Improve Nursing Home Job Standards and Care Quality4Elder AffairsSen. Feeney
Rep. Balser

(S403)
S403_H724_endorse.pdf
S1476An Act to improve infection control within long-term care facilities1Public HealthSen. MontignyS1476_endorse.pdf
S0413An Act to Improve Employer Standards for Massachusetts Nursing Homes1Elder AffairsSen. Jehlen,
Rep. Cronin,
Rep. Garbally
(H733)
S413_H733_endorse.pdf
June 30,2021: Testimony S 413
H0733An Act to Improve Employer Standards for Massachusetts Nursing Homes1Elder AffairsSen. Jehlen,
Rep. Cronin,
Rep. Garbally
(S413)
S413_H733_endorse.pdf
June 30,2021: Testimony S 413
S0974An Act to Establish the Office of Adult Decisional Support Services1JudiciarySen. Creem
Rep. Tucker
(H1898)
S974_H1898_endorse.pdf
H1898An Act to Establish the Office of Adult Decisional Support Services1JudiciarySen. Creem
Rep. Tucker
(S974)
S974_H1898_endorse.pdf
S0788An Act to establish the Family Caregiver Tax Credit3RevenueSen. Lewis
Rep. Roger
(H3043)
S788_H3043_endorse.pdf
H3043An Act to establish the Family Caregiver Tax Credit3RevenueSen. Lewis
Rep. Roger
(S788)
S788_H3043_endorse.pdf
S0421An Act to ensure resident safety within assisted living facilities2Elder AffairsSen. MontignyS421_endorse.pdf
S0414An Act to Ensure Quality of Care in Nursing Home1Elder AffairsSen. Jehlen,
Rep. Balser
(H727)
S414_H727_endorse.pdf
June 30,2021: Testimony on S 414
H0727An Act to Ensure Quality of Care in Nursing Home1Elder AffairsSen. Jehlen,
Rep. Balser
(S414)
S414_H727_endorse.pdf
June 30,2021: Testimony S 414
S0419An Act to Create Safe Environments for Home Care Workers and Consumers4Elder AffairsSen. Lovely
Rep. Moran
(H748)
S429_H748_endorse.pdf
H0748An Act to Create Safe Environments for Home Care Workers and Consumers4Elder AffairsSen. Lovely
Rep. Moran
(S419)
S429_H748_endorse.pdf
H2419An Act removing barriers to work that discriminate against persons with disabilities, mobility impairments, and seniors3Public Safety and Homeland SecurityRep. BarberH2419_endorse.pdf
H1242An Act relative to transfers of assets by MassHealth members1Health Care FinancingRep. BarberH1242_endorse.pdf
H1598An Act relative to the Uniform Power of Attorney Act1JudiciaryRep. GentileH1598_endorse.pdf
H1646An Act relative to temporary guardians 1JudiciaryRep. HillH1646_endorse.pdf
S0124An Act relative to supported decision-making3Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesSen. Lovely
Rep. Tucker
(H272)
S124 has been replaced by S2848

S124_H272_endorse.pdf
H0272An Act relative to supported decision-making3Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesSen. Lovely
Rep. Tucker
(S124)
H272 has been replaced by H4725

S124_H272_endorse.pdf
S0406An Act Relative to Small House Nursing Homes 1Elder AffairsSen. JehlenS406_endorse.pdf
July 2021: Testimony S 406
S0422An Act relative to reserving beds in nursing homes during certain leaves of absence1Elder AffairsSen. MontignyS422_endorse.pdf
H2613An Act relative to protecting local retirees3Public ServicesRep. DayH2613_endorse.pdf
H1256An Act relative to preventing discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of health care3Committee on Health Care FinancingSenator Sonia Chang-Diaz, Rep. Josh Cutler(S2921 - formerly S745)
H1256_endorse.pdf
S0424An Act relative to prevent patient abuse and death in nursing homes1Elder AffairsSen. MontignyS424_endorse.pdf
H0731An Act relative to mandatory reporting of elder abuse3Elder AffairsRep. ChanH731_endorse.pdf
S0398An Act relative to intensive case management for clinically complex older adults3Elder AffairsSen. ChandlerS398_endorse.pdf
S0418An Act relative to expanding the availability of personal care homes for older adults3Elder AffairsSen. Lovely
Rep. Kerans

(H 745)
S418_H745_endorse.pdf
July 12,2021: Testimony S 415 and H 745 Meg Coffin, and Testimony S 415 and H 745 Samantha VanSchoick
H0745An Act relative to expanding the availability of personal care homes for older adults3Elder AffairsSen. Lovely
Rep. Kerans
(S418)
S418_H745_endorse.pdf
July 12,2021: Testimony S 418 and H 745 by Meg Coffin,
Testimony S 418 and H 745 by Samantha VanSchoick
S2420An Act relative to expanding the availability of adaptive housing for consumers with disabilities, mobility impairments, and seniors3Public Safety and Homeland SecurityRep. Barber
Rep. Moran
S2420_endorse.pdf
H2259An Act relative to Do-Not-Resuscitate Orders1Public HealthRep. CampbellH2259_endorse.pdf
S0811An Act relative to consistent treatment of life estates3Health Care Financing
Sen. Rausch
Rep. Murray
Rep. Higgins
(H1301)
S811_H1301_endorse.pdf
H1301An Act relative to consistent treatment of life estates3Health Care FinancingSen. Rausch
Rep. Murray
Rep. Higgins
(S811)
S811_H1301_endorse.pdf
H2246An Act Relative to CNA Training3Public HealthRep. ChanH 2246 Endorsement.pdf
S1084An Act relative to bullying in public housing to establish a statewide tenant protective services ombudsman for elderly and disabled residents in public and subsidized housing; to protect established rights of citizens and tenants.2JudiciarySen. LovelyS1084_endorse.pdf
H0193An Act regarding transparency for individuals and Guardians1Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesRep. CahillH193_endorse.pdf
S0681An Act providing coverage for hearing aids3Financial ServicesSen. HindsS681_endorse.pdf
S0420An Act protecting the rights of assisted living residents2Elder AffairsSen. Montigny
Rep. Barber
(H728)
S420_H728_endorse.pdf
H0728An Act protecting the rights of assisted living residents2Elder AffairsSen. Montigny
Rep. Barber
(S420)
S420_H728_endorse.pdf
S0749An Act Protecting the Homes of Seniors and Disabled People on MassHealth3Health Care FinancingSen. Comerford
Rep. Barber
(H1246)
S749_H1246_endorse.pdf
H1246An Act Protecting the Homes of Seniors and Disabled People on MassHealth3Health Care FinancingSen. Comerford
Rep. Barber
(S749)
S749_H1246_endorse.pdf
S0412An Act increasing the personal needs allowance for residents of long-term care facilities1Elder AffairsSen. JehlenS412_endorse.pdf
S1506An Act increasing the personal needs allowance for residents of long-term care facilities1Public HealthSen. O’ConnorS1506_endorse.pdf
S0397An Act increasing awareness of community based PACE programs for older adults3Elder AffairsSen. Chandler
Rep. Madaro
(H747)
S397_H747_endorse.pdf
H0747An Act increasing awareness of community based PACE programs for older adults3Elder AffairsSen. Chandler
Rep. Madaro
(S397)
S397_H747_endorse.pdf
S1257An Act establishing a special commission to study and report on the history of state institutions for people with developmental and mental health disabilities in the Commonwealth2Committee on Mental Health, Substance Abuse and RecoverySen. Barret
Rep. Garbally
(H2090)
S1257_H2090_endorse.pdf
H2090An Act establishing a special commission to study and report on the history of state institutions for people with developmental and mental health disabilities in the Commonwealth2Committee on Mental Health, Substance Abuse and RecoverySen. Barret
Rep. Garbally
(S1257)
S1257_H2090_endorse.pdf
S1482An Act Ensuring Access to a Resident Representative in Long-Term Care Facilities1Public HealthSen. MontignyS 1482 Endorsement.pdf
H0737An Act Clarifying Rate Setting Processes for Health and Home Care Services3Health Care FinancingSen. Jehlen
Rep. Gentile
(S774)
S774_H737_endorse.pdf
S0774An Act Clarifying Rate Setting Processes for Health and Home Care Services3Health Care FinancingSen. Jehlen
Rep. Gentile
(H737)
S774_H737_endorse.pdf
S1629An Act building a more accessible Massachusetts3Public Safety and Homeland SecuritySen. MooreS1629_endorse.pdf
S0089An Act Allowing Spouses to Serve as Caregivers3Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesSen. Comerford
Rep. Orall
(H1305)
S89_and_H1305_endorse.pdf
H1305An Act Allowing Spouses to Serve as Caregivers3Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesSen. Comerford
Rep. Orall
(S89)
S89_and_H1305_endorse.pdf
S0900Act to prevent and respond to bullying of elderly and disabled residents; to improve housing administration, establish best practices, train, educate.2HousingSen. Lovely
Rep. Honan
(H1407)
S900_H1407_endorse.pdf
H1407Act to prevent and respond to bullying of elderly and disabled residents; to improve housing administration, establish best practices, train, educate.2HousingSen. Lovely
Rep. Honan
(S900)
S900_H1407_endorse.pdf
S0127Act Establishing Guardians as Providers of Medical Care to Support the Rights of Incapacitated Persons1Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesSen. Lovely
Rep. Kerans
(H235)
S127_and_H235_endorse.pdf
H0235Act Establishing Guardians as Providers of Medical Care to Support the Rights of Incapacitated Persons1Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesSen. Lovely
Rep. Kerans
(S127)
S127_and_H1235_endorse.pdf
S0908An Act relative to accessory dwelling units3Committee on HousingSenator Bruce Tarr, Rep. Christine Barber(H1370)
H1370An Act relative to accessory dwelling units3Committee on HousingRep. Christine Barber, Senator Bruce Tarr(S908)
S2921

Formerly:
S0745
An Act relative to preventing discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of health care 3Committee on Health Care FinancingSenator Sonia Chang-Diaz, Rep. Josh Cutler(H1256)
H0205An Act establishing a livable home modification program3Committee on Children, Families and People with DisabilitiesRep. Carol Doherty
S1867An Act relative to taxes due upon the death of active-duty personnel and the elderly3Committee on RevenueSen. Cindy Friedman, Rep. Michelle Ciccolo(H2849)
H2849An Act relative to taxes due upon the death of active-duty personnel and the elderly3Committee on RevenueSen. Cindy Friedman, Rep. Michelle Ciccolo(S1867)
H4175An Act relative to the senior citizen work rebate program during the COVD-19 emergency5Committee on RevenueRep. Meghan Kilcoyne
S2695An Act relative to pharmaceutical access, costs and transparencyCommittee on Ways and MeansSen. Cindy FriedmanOriginally filed as S771
H4224Resolutions establishing the annual observance of COVID-19 Remembrance DayCommittee on State Administration and Regulatory OversightRep. Blais, Rep. DombDignityMA Resolution on H4224
S0416An Act strengthening the Attorney General’s tools to protect nursing home residents and other patients from abuse and neglect1Joint Committee on Elder AffairsSen. Jason Lewis, Atty Gen. Healy, Sen. Eldredge, Rep. StanleyDignityMA Resolution on S416.pdf
H4780An Act to Improve Quality and Oversight of Long-Term Care1Joint Committee on Elder AffairsRep. Thomas Stanley plus 74 Senators and Representatives and Attorney General Maura HealeyDignityMA Resolution on H4780.pdf
H1436An Act promoting housing stability and homelessness prevention in Massachusetts3Joint Committee on HousingSen. Sal DiDomenico; Rep. David Rogers; Rep. Michael Day(S874)
DignityMA Resolution on H1436.pdf
S0874An Act promoting housing stability and homelessness prevention in Massachusetts3Joint Committee on HousingSen. Sal DiDomenico; Rep. David Rogers; Rep. Michael Day(H1436)
DignityMA Resolution on S874.pdf
H4361An Act to improve Massachusetts’ competitiveness and reduce the cost of living - State Tax Cut Proposal EndorsementJoint Committee on RevenueDignityMA Resolution on H4361.pdf
S2848An Act relative to supported decision-making3Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesSen. Lovely
Rep. Tucker
(H4725)
S2848 replaces S124

DignityMA Resolution on H4725 and S2848.pdf
H4725An Act relative to supported decision-making3Children, Families and Persons with DisabilitiesSen. Lovely
Rep. Tucker
(S2848)
H4725 replaces H272

DignityMA Resolution on H4725 and S2848.pdf
S2009An Act relating to access to public recordsSenate Ways and MeansSen. Michael Barrett(H3150)

DignityMA Support
H3150An Act relating to access to public recordsHouse Ways and MeansRep. Sean Garballey(S2009)

DignityMA Support