Action on Key Bills in the House  
  • Act Relative to Bullying in Schools (S2404). Establishes reporting requirements and requires schools to have a policy regarding bullying. Signed into law by the Governor. 
  • Act Relative to Safe Driving. (H4795) Prohibits texting while driving and prohibits texting and all cell phone use by drivers under 18. Requires drivers over age 75 to renew licenses in person and be vision checked every 5 (vs. every 10 years). Requires Registrar to develop cognitive test for older drivers. Gives legal immunity to doctors and public safety officers who contact the registry with concerns about individual drivers. Signed into law by the Governor.
  • Act Relative to Expanded Gambling. (H4591) Different versions passed the House and Senate, and the two bills are now being reconciled in conference committee before going to the Governor's desk. Thanks to so many of you who have sent your thoughts on this issue.
  • Act Relative to Criminal Offender Recordkeepking (CORI) Reform. (H4703) The bill, endorsed by a broad range of interest groups including business, will help non-violent offenders return to productive lives and improve access to information for employers. Passed the House and Senate and is now in Conference Committee. 
  • Restaurant Rejuvenation Act. (Part of budget) Allows restaurants to serve alcohol at 10am (vs. 12pm) on Sundays. Signed into law by the Governor.
  • Safer Alternatives to Toxic Substances. (H4865) Reported favorably out of Committee. The bill seeks to identify and limit toxic substances in the Commonwealth. Still needs to be voted on by the full House and Senate.
  • Act Relative to Economic Development. (H4820) Will give small businesses better access to credit, establishes a sales tax holiday, creates a structure that will help attract and retain more businesses in the Commonwealth and consolidates state economic develoment agencies. Different versions passed the House and Senate and are now being reconciled in a conference committee.
  • Act Relative to Municipal Relief. (H4618) Contains numerous provisions requested by municipalities that help cope with tight budgets including sharing large equipment, flexibility in pension funding and early retirement options. Also allows funds to adopt a policy that will help residents fund renewable energy projects. Different versions passed the House and Senate and are now being reconciled in a conference committee.
  • 2010 State Budget (see budget link on previous page)