Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-386
EHS 386
C-10 Research and Education Foundation
Mr. Tarr moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0615, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $125,000 may be expended for the C-10 Research and Education Foundation, Inc. to provide radiological monitoring in the 6 Communities of the Commonwealth that are within the plume exposure emergency planning zone of the Seabrook nuclear power plant".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-387
EHS 387
Infant Care Necessities
Messrs. Tarr, Montigny and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0100, by inserting at the end thereof the following:- "; provided further that the Department of Public Health shall make a request for approval from the United States Department of Agriculture for the expenditure of benefits on diapers for children and infants under the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-388
EHS 388
Pilot Program for Small Business Group Purchasing Cooperatives
Mr. Tarr moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section _ the following section:-
"SECTION_. Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, the division of insurance shall develop a 3-year pilot program to permit at least 1 but no more than 6 small business group purchasing cooperatives, as defined in section 1 of chapter 176J of the General Laws, to be considered a large employer for the purposes of accessing affordable health insurance coverage options. The total number of covered lives for all approved group purchasing cooperatives, in the aggregate, participating in this pilot program shall not exceed 85,000 covered lives. The division shall develop guidelines that shall include but not be limited to: (i) ways to reduce premiums for members of small business group purchasing cooperatives and their employees; (ii) any waiver of statutory or regulatory requirements to effectuate the pilot program; and (iii) requirements for small business group purchasing cooperative participatory wellness programming. The pilot program shall be implemented no later than 1 year from the effective date of this act. Not later than 6 months after the conclusion of the pilot program, the division of insurance shall issue a report including but not limited to the following information: (i) the number of persons covered under this option for each year of the pilot program; (ii) the availability of coverage offered over the span of the pilot program; (iii) an analysis of impact that the pilot program has on the affordability of health coverage for the participating members and their employees and whether there is any demonstrable impact on the merged market; and (iv) recommendations regarding making the pilot program permanent."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-389
EHS 389
Group Purchasing Cooperative
Mr. Tarr moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section _ the following section:-
"SECTION _. Section 12 of Chapter 176J, as appearing, is hereby amended by striking in line 32 the figure '6' and inserting in place thereof the following:- '10'; and
By striking in line 35 the figure, '6' and inserting in place thereof the following:- '10'."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-390
EHS 390
Spouses as Caregivers
Messrs. Tarr, Collins and Eldridge, Ms. Edwards and Messrs. Brady, Montigny and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section ___ the following section:-
"SECTION _____ . Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, the Secretary of Health and Human Services in conjunction with the Secretary of Elder Affairs shall file an application to seek a waiver with the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) to amend the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ 1915(c) elderly waiver, and that any program of home and community based services in which family members are permitted to serve as paid caregivers, funded pursuant to Section 9 of Chapter 118E shall include spouses within the definition of a family member."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-393
EHS 393
Mass and Cass Response
Mr. Collins moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0200, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $4,000,000 shall be expended to implement the long-term recovery model recommendations of the South End, Roxbury, Newmarket Working Group on Addiction and Recovery to address public safety and public health concerns at the Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard intersection and the surrounding impact areas in in the City of Boston"; and by striking out the figure "$192,031,129" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "196,031,129".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-393-R1
Redraft EHS 393
Mass and Cass Response
Mr. Collins moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0200, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to Boston Health Care for the Homeless in the South End and Roxbury section of the city of Boston to provide health care and treatment services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness and mental health and substance use disorders in and around the intersection of Massachusetts avenue and Melnea Cass boulevard and the surrounding impact areas; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to the Boston Medical Center in the South End section of the city of Boston to provide health care and treatment services to those experiencing mental health and substance use disorders in and around the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard and the surrounding impact areas; provided further, that funds may be expended to implement the recommendations of the South End, Roxbury, Newmarket Working Group on Addiction and Recovery to address public health and safety crisis at the intersection of Massachusetts avenue and Melnea Cass boulevard and the surrounding impact areas in collaboration with the city of Boston"; and by striking out the figure "$192,031,129" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$192,531,129”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-393-R2
2nd Redraft EHS 393
Mass and Cass Response
Mr. Collins moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0200, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to Boston Health Care for the Homeless in the South End and Roxbury section of the city of Boston for direct care workers providing health care treatment services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness and mental health and substance use disorders in and around the intersection of Massachusetts avenue and Melnea Cass boulevard and the surrounding impact areas; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to the Boston Medical Center in the South End section of the city of Boston for direct care workers providing health care treatment services for those experiencing mental health and substance use disorders in and around the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard and the surrounding impact areas; provided further, that funds may be expended to implement the recommendations of the South End, Roxbury, Newmarket Working Group on Addiction and Recovery to address public health and safety crisis at the intersection of Massachusetts avenue and Melnea Cass boulevard and the surrounding impact areas in collaboration with the city of Boston"; and by striking out the figure "$192,031,129" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$192,531,129”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-394
EHS 394
Regional EMS
Messrs. Tarr, Moore and Mark, Ms. Kennedy, Mr. Durant, Ms. Rausch, Mr. Eldridge, Ms. Howard and Messrs. Fattman and Velis moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0790, by striking the figure "$500,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$1,000,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-395
EHS 395
Simplifying Employment and Income Determinations/Redeterminations for Medicaid Benefits
Mr. Tarr moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section ___ the following section:-
"SECTION __. Notwithstanding the provisions of any law or regulation to the contrary, in order to achieve cost savings, improve timeliness, and minimize fraud, MassHealth shall obtain employment and income information from a third-party commercial consumer reporting agency, in accordance with the federal 'Fair Credit Reporting Act,' 15 U.S.C. s.1681 et seq., for the purpose of obtaining real-time employment and income information to assist with Medicaid eligibility determinations and redeterminations in adherence to state and federal eligibility requirements and to support the agency’s objectives.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-396
EHS 396
Prescription Drug Coupon
Messrs. Tarr, Durant and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section ___ the following section:-
“SECTION ____. Sections 131 and 226 of Chapter 139 of the Acts of 2012 are hereby repealed."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-397
EHS 397
Intergovernmental Transfer Program for Public Ambulance Services
Mr. Moore moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section __ the following section:-
“SECTION XX. (a) The following words shall, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, have the following meanings:
“Executive Office”, The Executive Office of Health and Human Services.
“Public ambulance service”, ambulance services which are provided by a city or town, county, district or other governmental body and are licensed pursuant to section 6 of chapter 111C.
(b) The Executive Office shall implement voluntary programs to increase funding to public ambulance services, including, but not limited to intergovernmental transfer programs, as permissible under §1903(w)(6) of the Social Security Act and codified at 42 CFR 433.51. The Executive Office shall amend the State Plan for Medical Assistance and shall seek approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services as necessary to make supplemental payments for public ambulance services that make an intergovernmental transfer under this section.
(c) Any additional funds public ambulance services receive as a result of this section shall not be used to replace payment commitments between the public ambulance services and the Commonwealth. "
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-399
EHS 399
Citizenship for New Americans
Messrs. Tarr, Montigny and Lewis, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Eldridge, Fernandes, Driscoll and O'Connor and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4003-0122, by striking the figure "$1,311,246" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$2,000,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-400-R1
Redraft EHS 400
Latin American Health Alliance
Mr. Moore moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to the Latin American Health Alliance of Central Massachusetts, Inc. for capital expenses to support substance use recovery programming for communities disproportionately affected by health disparities in central Massachusetts”; and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$125,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-400
EHS 400
Latin American Health Alliance
Mr. Moore moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to the Latin American Health Alliance of Central Massachusetts, Inc. for capital expenses”; and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$125,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-401
EHS 401
Increasing Access and Quality to Autism Care
Mr. Moore moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section __ the following section:-
"SECTION __. 118E Section 10H of the General Laws is hereby amended by adding the following 2 paragraphs:-
The division shall establish a rate for applied behavior analysis services for all providers who are licensed to provide said services by the Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions of the Department of Public Health.
The division shall adopt reimbursement codes and modifiers as necessary so that all licensed providers of applied behavioral analysis, as established by the Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions of the Department of Public Health, and those acting under the direct supervision of a licensed provider, may be eligible to submit for reimbursement."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-403
EHS 403
LGBTQ+ Homeless Youth
Messrs. Cyr, Lewis, O'Connor and Montigny moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0005, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $500,000 shall be expended to BAGLY, Inc. to provide innovative job training and wraparound support to LGBTQ+ homeless youth"; and by striking the figure “$12,474,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$12,974,000”.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-406
EHS 406
AdMeTech Prostate Cancer Awareness Program
Mr. Rush, Ms. Creem, Messrs. Moore, Oliveira, Keenan, Gómez and Fattman, Ms. Miranda, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Payano, Collins, Brady and Lewis, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. O'Connor and Driscoll, Ms. Rausch, Mr. Montigny, Ms. Edwards, Ms. Jehlen and Messrs. Fernandes, Finegold, Velis and Tarr moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-0925, by striking out the figure "$625,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$1,250,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-407
EHS 407
Self Esteem Boston
Messrs. Rush, Keenan, Gómez, Payano and Collins, Ms. Howard and Mr. Velis moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, by adding the following words:- “; provided further that not less than $175,000 shall be expended to Self Esteem Boston’s direct service and provider training programs"; and by striking out the figure "$100,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$275,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-408
EHS 408
Walker, Inc
Mr. Rush moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to Walker, Inc. for continuation of behavioral health and wellness services for incarcerated and post-release individuals with children from Suffolk and Norfolk County Sheriff Offices to promote successful child development, community reintegration, and reduced recidivism, and expansion of similar services for at-risk or court-involved youth from Suffolk and Norfolk County to promote mental health, academic success, and reduced criminal justice"; and by striking out the figure "$100,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$350,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-408-R1
Redraft EHS 408
Walker, Inc
Messrs. Rush and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to Walker, Inc. for behavioral health and wellness services for incarcerated and post-release individuals with children in the counties of Suffolk and Norfolk to promote successful child development, community reintegration and reduced recidivism and for the expansion of similar services for at-risk and court-involved youth in the counties of Suffolk and Norfolk to promote mental health, academic success and reduced involvement in the criminal justice system"; and by striking out the figure "$100,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$350,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-409-R1
Redraft EHS 409
North shore emergency preparedness
Mr. Tarr, Ms. Edwards and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 1599-0026, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $40,000 shall be expended to the metropolitan area planning council for the costs associated with the planning and coordination of a regional approach to municipal emergency services in Essex county"; and by striking out the figure "$10,000,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:-"$10,040,000 ".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-409
EHS 409
North shore emergency preparedness
Mr. Tarr and Ms. Edwards moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 1599-0026, by adding the following words:-"; provided further, that not less than $40,000 shall be expended to the metropolitan area planning council for the costs associated with the planning and coordination of a regional approach to municipal emergency services in Essex County"; and by striking out the figure, "$6,852,912" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:-"$6,892,912"
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-410
EHS 410
Big Hope
Ms. Edwards and Ms. Miranda moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7004-0107, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $75,000 shall be expended to the Big Hope Project in Fitchburg for the launch and operation of Hope House a reentry-focused transitional housing, recidivism prevention and workforce development program serving justice-impacted individuals across Massachusetts”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-410-R1
Redraft EHS 410
Big Hope
Ms. Edwards and Ms. Miranda moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7004-0107, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $75,000 shall be expended to the Big Hope Project Inc in the city of Fitchburg for the launch and operation of Hope House, a reentry-focused transitional housing, recidivism prevention and workforce development program serving justice-impacted individuals across the commonwealth”; and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure “$175,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-411
EHS 411
State Facilities for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Messrs. Tarr, Payano, Lewis, Keenan, Eldridge, Collins and Driscoll moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5930-1000, by striking out item 5930-1000 and inserting in place thereof the following item:-
"5930-1000 For the operation of facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities; provided, that in order to comply with the decision in Olmstead v. L.C. ex rel. Zimring, 527 U.S. 581 (1999) and to enhance care for clients, the department of developmental services shall discharge clients residing in intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities or ICF/IID, to residential services in the community if: (i) the client is deemed clinically suited for a more integrated setting; (ii) community residential service capacity and resources available are sufficient to provide each client with an equal or improved level of service; (iii) the cost to the commonwealth of serving the client in the community is less than or equal to the cost of serving the client in an ICF/IID; and (iv) such discharge is “not opposed” by the client or their guardian; provided further, that any client transferred to another ICF/IID as the result of a facility closure shall receive a level of care that is equal to or greater than the level of care that had been provided at the closed ICF/IID; provided further, that the department may allocate funds from this item to items 5920-2000, 5920-2010 and 5920-2025, as necessary, under allocation plans that shall be submitted to the house and senate committees on ways and means not less than 30 days before any transfer for residential and day services for clients formerly receiving inpatient care at an ICF/IID; and provided further, that not later than March 2, 2027, the department shall report to the house and senate committees on ways and means and the clerks of the house and senate, on: (a) all efforts to comply with the decision in Olmstead v. L.C. ex rel. Zimring, 527 U.S. 581 (1999); (b) the enhancement of care within available resources to clients served by the department; (c) the steps taken to consolidate or close an ICF/IID; and (d) the steps taken to inform families of the choices available for residential care including ICF care. DDS clients who have been found to be eligible for ICF-level care have a right to choose an ICF setting...............................$134,334,811".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-412
EHS 412
Elder Nutrition
Messrs. Cyr, Gómez, Montigny and Oliveira, Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Collins, Keenan, Lewis and Eldridge, Ms. Howard and Mr. Driscoll moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-1900, by striking out the figure “$13,410,963” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$14,410,963”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-412-R1
Redraft EHS 412
Elder Nutrition
Messrs. Cyr, Gómez, Montigny and Oliveira, Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Collins, Keenan, Lewis and Eldridge, Ms. Howard, Mr. Driscoll, Ms. Edwards, Messrs. Velis and O'Connor and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-1900, by striking out the figure “$13,410,963” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$13,910,963”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-414
EHS 414
Dukes County Sheriff Payroll
Messrs. Cyr and Fernandes moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 8910-8402, by striking out the figure “$4,830,458” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$5,548,205”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-415
EHS 415
Roca Young Mothers Experiencing Acute Trauma Program
Messrs. Crighton, Gómez, Eldridge and DiDomenico, Ms. Edwards and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 0930-0100, by adding the following words:- “; and provided further, that not less than $1,250,000 shall be expended for Roca. Inc.'s young mothers experiencing acute trauma program”; and by striking out the figure "$7,966,712" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$9,216,712".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-416
EHS 416
Midwives Reimbursement Correction
Mr. Crighton, Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Miranda, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Lewis, Collins, Eldridge and Driscoll, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Moore and Payano and Ms. Edwards moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section X the following sections:-
SECTION X. Section 10A of chapter 118E of the General Laws, as so appearing, as amended by Chapter 186 of the Acts of 2024, is hereby amended in paragraph two by inserting after the words, “the division” the following words:- “and its contracted health insurers, health plans, health maintenance organizations, behavioral health management firms and third-party administrators under contract to a Medicaid managed care organization, accountable care organization or primary care clinician plan".
SECTION X. Section 10A of chapter 118E of the General Laws, as so appearing, as amended by Chapter 186 of the Acts of 2024, is hereby amended in paragraph three by inserting after the words, “the division” the following words:- “and its contracted health insurers, health plans, health maintenance organizations, behavioral health management firms and third-party administrators under contract to a Medicaid managed care organization, accountable care organization or primary care clinician plan.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-416-R1
Redraft EHS 416
Midwives Reimbursement Correction
Mr. Crighton, Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Miranda, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Lewis, Collins, Eldridge and Driscoll, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Moore and Payano, Ms. Edwards, Mr. O'Connor and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section 28 the following section:-
“SECTION 28A. Section 10A of chapter 118E of the General Laws, as so appearing, is hereby amended by inserting after the word, “division”, in lines 21 and 28, the following words:- and its contracted health insurers, health plans, health maintenance organizations, behavioral health management firms and third-party administrators under contract to a Medicaid managed care organization, accountable care organization or primary care clinician plan.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-418
EHS 418
STOP Stroke
Messrs. Montigny, Tarr and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, by inserting after item 4513-1112 the following item:-
"4513-1121 For a statewide STOP stroke program; provided further, that the funds shall be expended to provide educational programming as part of the Act F.A.S.T. campaign on the signs and symptoms of stroke and stroke warning signs with a focus on communities that have the highest incidence of stroke; provided further, that no funds awarded to the Act F.A.S.T. campaign shall be used for personnel costs; provided further, that the department shall provide quality improvement measures that align with the stroke consensus metrics by utilizing a nationally-recognized data set platform and expand the statewide registry that compiles information and statistics on stroke care using confidentiality standards that shall be not less secure than a nationally-recognized data set platform, including the stroke registry data platform; provided further, funds shall be expended to require all stroke service hospitals and emergency medical services agencies to report data consistent with nationally-recognized guidelines on the treatment of individuals with confirmed stroke; provided further, funds shall be expended to oversee the operation and administration of designated stroke service hospital programs as defined in 105 CMR 130.1402; provided further, that funds shall be used to collect and analyze data from designated stroke service hospitals in the commonwealth and for the salary of a full-time surveyor who shall be primarily responsible for ensuring compliance with the stroke service designation criteria; provided further, that not later than December 31, 2026, the department shall submit a report to the senate committee on post audit and oversight and the senate and house committees on ways and means detailing: (i) expenditures from this item; (ii) the number of persons reached by the campaign under this item; (iii) the methods and strategies implemented to reach said persons; and (iv) activities carried out by the department pursuant to this item........................................$500,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-419
EHS 419
Heywood Hospital Bariatric Program
Mr. Durant moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0300, by adding the following:- “provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended for plumbing and other infrastructure and facility upgrades at Heywood Hospital to meet regulatory requirements and support the expansion of the hospital’s bariatric program to help improve the treatment of chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and sleep-related disorders”; and by striking out the figure “$155,439,918” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$155,489,918”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-420
EHS 420
PFAS Commission
Mr. Durant, Mrs. Dooner and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended by adding the following section:-
"SECTION XX. The secretary of health and human services shall convene a stakeholder working group to make recommendations for any regulatory and legislative changes necessary to comprehensively advance healthcare professional training on PFAS by improving understanding of health effects, promoting evidence-based treatment strategies, and increasing access to ongoing learning opportunities. The working group shall include: the secretary of health and human services or a designee who shall serve as chair; the commissioner of public health or a designee; 1 member appointed by the Massachusetts Nurses Association; 1 member appointed by the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association; 1 member appointed by the Massachusetts Medical Society; 1 member appointed by the Massachusetts Association of Physician Associates; the chair of the house and senate committees on public health or designee; 1 member appointed by the house; 1 member appointed by the senate minority leader; and 2 members appointed by the governor.
The working group shall examine: (i) existing gaps in healthcare professional education and training related to PFAS exposure, associated health effects and evidence-based treatment and monitoring strategies; (ii) opportunities to improve access to continuing education, clinical guidance and public health resources related to PFAS exposure for healthcare professionals across the commonwealth; (iii) regulatory and legislative changes necessary to ensure insurance coverage for medically necessary screening, diagnostic testing and monitoring for residents exposed to PFAS contamination at levels exceeding applicable state or federal health advisory or regulatory limits, including coverage under private insurance plans, MassHealth and other public health coverage programs; and (iv) strategies to improve public awareness, patient access to care and coordination between healthcare providers, public health agencies and community organizations related to PFAS exposure and treatment.
The working group shall submit its report and any recommendations to the clerks of the senate and house of representatives, the joint committee on public health and the senate and house committees on ways and means not later than March 31, 2027."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-421
EHS 421
Private Student Vision Testing
Mr. Moore moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section __ the following section:-
SECTION __. Chapter 29 of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, is hereby amended by inserting the following section:-
“Section 2GGGGGGG. (a) There is hereby established and set up on the books of the commonwealth a separate, non-budgeted special revenue fund known as the Private School Children’s Vision Testing Fund established to be used by private schools and independent schools to assist with vision testing operations required by Section 57 of Chapter 71 of the General Laws. The fund shall be administered by the commissioner of public health.
(b) There shall be credited to the fund: (i) revenue from appropriations and other money authorized by the general court and specifically designated to be credited to the fund; (ii) funds from public and private sources such as gifts, grants and donations; and (iii) interest earned on money in the fund. Amounts credited to the fund shall be expended without further appropriation. No expenditure made from the fund shall cause the fund to be in deficit at any point. Any money remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year shall not revert to the General Fund.
(c) Funds shall be made available to provide grants to support vision testing operations by private schools in the commonwealth.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-422
EHS 422
Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities
Mr. Oliveira moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-1660, by inserting the following:- "; provided, that not less than $1,000,000 shall be expended for providers of naturally occurring retirement communities with whom the executive office of aging and independence entered into service agreements in fiscal year 2026 and shall maintain at proportions of total available funding equal to those provided in fiscal year 2026"; and by striking out the figure “$1,719,158” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$2,719,158.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-423
EHS 423
Massachusetts Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs
Messrs. Velis, Montigny and Oliveira, Ms. Creem, Mr. Gomez, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Cronin and Collins, Ms. Kennedy, Mr. Mark, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Eldridge, Crighton, Fernandes, Payano, Brady, Cyr and O'Connor, Ms. Lovely, Mr. Fattman, Mrs. Dooner and Messrs. Tarr and Moore moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1507, by striking out the figure “$2,200,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$3,000,000”; and in by striking out the figure "$7,200,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$8,000,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-424
EHS 424
RIZE
Messrs. Finegold, Keenan, Payano, Cyr and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, in line 2, by inserting after the word "services" the following:- “; provided further, that not less than $2,000,000 shall be expended for RIZE Massachusetts Foundation, Inc. to assist in their work to end the opioid epidemic in the commonwealth.”; and by striking the figure "$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$2,100,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-425
EHS 425
Boys and Girls Club of Metro North Innovation Lab
Mr. Lewis moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1507, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended to the Boys and Girls Club of Metro North for the purposes of establishing an innovation center and STEM Lab;" and by striking out the figure “$7,200,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$7,250,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-426
EHS 426
MCPAP for Schools
Messrs. Velis, Gómez, Collins and Keenan, Ms. Rausch and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5042-5000, by inserting after the words “existing capacity” the following words:- “provided further, that not less than $500,000 of that amount shall be expended to the Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Program to develop and implement behavioral health consultation services that are accessible to school personnel and students in kindergarten to grade 12”; and by striking out the figure “$3,875,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$4,375,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-426-R1
Redraft EHS 426
MCPAP for Schools
Messrs. Velis, Gómez, Collins and Keenan, Ms. Rausch, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Payano and Cyr and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5042-5000, by striking out the figure “$3,875,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$4,375,000”; and by inserting after the words “existing capacity”, in line 25, the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $500,000 of that amount shall be expended to MCPAP to develop and implement behavioral health consultation services that are accessible to school personnel and students in kindergarten to grade 12”; and by striking out the figure “$136,668,638” and inserting in place thereof the following figure: -“$137,168,638”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-427
EHS 427
Immigrant Family Services Institute, Inc. (Mattapan, Brockton, Everett, Worcester, Methuen, Lowell)
Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Collins, Gómez, Lewis and Payano, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Eldridge and Mark, Ms. Edwards and Messrs. Driscoll and Brady moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4003-0124, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $5,000,000 shall be expended to the Immigrant Family Services Institute, Inc. for facilities, operations, programming, legal and mental health services at their offices including but not limited to Mattapan, Brockton, Everett, Worcester, Methuen, and Lowell to support immigrants in Massachusetts”; and by striking out the figure “5,000,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$10,000,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-427-R1
Redraft EHS 427
Immigrant Family Services Institute, Inc. (Mattapan, Brockton, Everett, Worcester, Methuen, Lowell)
Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Collins, Gomez, Lewis and Payano, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Eldridge and Mark, Ms. Edwards, Messrs. Driscoll and Brady and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4003-0124, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $3,000,000 shall be expended to the Immigrant Family Services Institute, Inc. for facilities, operations, programming, legal and mental health services at their offices including but not limited to Mattapan, Brockton, Everett, Worcester, Methuen, and Lowell to support immigrants in Massachusetts”; and by striking out the figure “5,000,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$8,000,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-429
EHS 429
Expanding School-Based Telehealth Program
Mr. Velis moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-2020, by striking out the figure “$10,034,773" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$11,184,773” and by striking out the figure “$3,532,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$4,682,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-429-R2
2nd Redraft EHS 429
Expanding School-Based Telehealth Program
Messrs. Velis and Cyr and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-2020, by striking out the figure “$3,532,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$3,782,000”; and by striking out the figure “$10,034,773” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$10,284,773”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-429-R1
Redraft EHS 429
Expanding School-Based Telehealth Program
Mr. Velis moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-2020, by striking out the figure “$3,532,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$3,782,000”; and by striking out the figure “$10,034,773” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$10,284,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-430
EHS 430
Immigrants' Assistance Center
Mr. Montigny moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4003-0122, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $75,000 shall be expended as a grant for Immigrants Assistance Center, Inc. in the city of New Bedford to provide citizenship and workforce readiness programming"; and by striking out the figure "$1,311,246" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$1,386,246".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-431
EHS 431
Reading Council on Aging van
Messrs. Lewis and Brady moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-9002, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended to the Reading Council on Aging for the purchase of an ADA compliant van;” and by striking out the figure “$29,224,266” and inserting in place thereof the
following figure:- “$29,274,266”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-432
EHS 432
PFAS
Mr. Cyr, Ms. Rausch, Mr. Fernandes, Ms. Lovely and Mr. Montigny moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0600, by inserting after the word “cancer,” the following words:- “potential health impacts of exposure to per- and polyfluoralkyl substances, ”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-433
EHS 433
988 Counselor Training
Messrs. Cyr, Fernandes and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1026, by adding the following words:- “; provided, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to the Trevor Project to develop and conduct crisis competency training for 988 Lifeline counselors and staff to support LGBTQ+ youth”; and by striking the figure “$14,393,198” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$14,643,198”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-435
EHS 435
Medical Residency Program
Messrs. Cyr and Fernandes moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0700, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $200,000 shall be expended on development and implementation of a medical residency program at Harbor Health Community Health Centers”; and by striking out the figure “$4,207,067,619” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$4,207,267,619”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-437
EHS 437
Allston-Brighton Food Pantry
Mr. Brownsberger moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 2511-0107, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended to the Allston-Brighton Food Pantry in the city of Boston”; and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$150,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-440
EHS 440
RecoveryWorks
Messrs. Keenan and Collins, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Eldridge, Driscoll and Payano, Ms. Edwards, Mr. O'Connor and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $475,000 shall be expended for the RecoveryWorks program at Massachusetts General Hospital, which is building a community of people in addiction recovery, including those who are court involved or returning citizens, families, organizations, and local resources to enhance participants’ long-term recovery as they seek purpose, hope, and meaningful employment by (i) providing participants mentorship, career coaching, recovery- and career-oriented skills training groups, and assistance with removing barriers to (re)enter the workforce throughout the five-year duration of the program; and (ii) partnering with employers and organizations on education and anti-stigma efforts”; and by striking out the figure "$100,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$575,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-441
EHS 441
Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program
Mr. Keenan moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by striking out the words "the Massachusetts Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program"; and by inserting, after the words "and programs", the following words:- "; provided, that not less than $6,752,977 shall be expended for smoking prevention and cessation programs, including youth tobacco use prevention and cessation programs at the Massachusetts Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-441-R1
Redraft EHS 441
Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program
Mr. Keenan, Ms. Lovely and Mr. Montigny moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by striking out the words "funds shall be expended for smoking prevention and cessation programs, including youth tobacco use prevention and cessation programs"; and by inserting in place thereof the following words:- "not less than $6,752,977 shall be expended for smoking prevention and cessation programs, including youth tobacco use prevention and cessation programs at the Massachusetts Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program"; and by striking out the figure “$12,295,532” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$12,947,134”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-442-R1
Redraft EHS 442
Arc of Massachusetts Workforce Training
Messrs. Keenan, Mark, Cronin, Collins and Eldridge, Ms. Howard and Messrs. Fernandes, Driscoll, Moore, Payano, Brady and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0300, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended to The Arc of Massachusetts and Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts, a division of The Arc, for a 6-month expansion of a successful pilot series to provide additional workforce training funds for department of developmental services and MassHealth day programs to train staff serving adults with autism and complex behavioral needs; provided further, that the training shall include, but not be limited to, applied behavior analysis and augmentative and alternative communication devices; provided further, that no later than May 1, 2027, The Arc of Massachusetts shall submit a report to the house and senate committees on ways and means and the joint committee on children, families and persons with disabilities detailing: (aa) the number of staff who received training under the pilot program and the number of hours trained; (bb) any certifications given; and (cc) the aggregated benefits to individuals served by staff who participated in the pilot program”; and by striking out the figure “$155,439,918” and inserting in place thereof the figure:- “$155,539,918”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-442
EHS 442
Arc of Massachusetts Workforce Training
Messrs. Keenan, Mark, Cronin, Collins and Eldridge, Ms. Howard and Messrs. Fernandes, Driscoll, Moore, Payano, Brady and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0300, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended to The Arc of Massachusetts and Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts, a division of The Arc, for a 6-month expansion of a successful pilot series to provide additional workforce training funds for department of developmental services and MassHealth day programs to train staff serving adults with autism and complex behavioral needs; provided further that the training would include but not be limited to applied behavior analysis and augmentative and alternative communication devices; provided further, that no later than May 1, 2027, The Arc of Massachusetts shall submit a report to the house and senate committees on ways and means and the joint committee on children, families and persons with disabilities detailing: (aa) the number of staff who received training under the pilot program and the number of hours trained; (bb) any certifications given; (cc) aggregated benefits to individuals served by staff who participated in the pilot program”; and by striking out the figure “$155,439,918” and inserting in place thereof the figure:- “$155,539,918”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-443
EHS 443
BSAS Payor of Last Resort
Mr. Keenan moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section __ the following section:-
SECTION __. Section 17 of chapter 111E of the General Laws, as so appearing, is hereby amended by striking out section 17, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, and inserting in place thereof the following section:-
Section 17. Subject to appropriation, the division may pay for the cost of medically necessary substance use disorder treatment services for a patient receiving such services in a facility operating pursuant to an agreement between the facility and the division; provided, that the patient is not entitled to the payment of such cost from any other source; provided further, that the payment shall not exceed rates established pursuant to chapter 6A. The division may promulgate rules, regulations and guidance to implement this section.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-445
EHS 445
Project Citizenship
Mr. Brownsberger moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4003-0122, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $40,000 shall be expended to Project Citizenship, Inc. for services for immigrants in Boston, Cambridge, Watertown and Belmont”; and by striking out the figure “$1,311,246” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$1,351,246”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-448
EHS 448
Justice 4 Housing
Messrs. Gómez, Collins, Eldridge and Payano moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7004-9034, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $450,000 shall be expended to Justice 4 Housing, Inc for housing, vocational and family reunification services for justice involved individuals”; and by striking out the figure "$3,120,000" and inserting in place thereof the following "$3,570,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-450
EHS 450
Housing First Responders
Messrs. Gómez, Mark, Brady, Collins, Eldridge and Oliveira, Ms. Miranda, Mr. Driscoll, Ms. Howard, Ms. Edwards and Mr. Rush moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7004-3036, by striking out the figure “$5,200,000 and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$8,974,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-450-R1
Redraft EHS 450
Housing First Responders
Messrs. Gómez, Mark, Brady, Collins, Eldridge and Oliveira, Ms. Miranda, Mr. Driscoll, Ms. Howard, Ms. Edwards, Ms. Lovely and Mr. Montigny moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7004-3036, by striking out the figure “$5,200,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$5,700,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-451
EHS 451
Detention Diversion Advocacy Program
Mr. Barrett moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4200-0200, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that the department of youth services shall expend not less than $600,000 for the detention diversion advocacy program coordinated by the Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps, Inc. to prevent high-risk juveniles presenting before the court from penetrating further into the juvenile justice system”; and by striking out the figure “$27,079,432” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$27,679,432”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-451-R1
Redraft EHS 451
Detention Diversion Advocacy Program
Mr. Barrett moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4200-0200, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $600,000 shall be expended for Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps, Inc. for the detention diversion advocacy program to prevent high-risk juveniles presenting before the court from becoming further involved in the juvenile justice system”; and by striking out the figure “$27,079,432” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$27,679,432”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-452
EHS 452
Beantown Diaper Bank
Mr. Barrett moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0300, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to Beantown Diaper Bank, Inc. to support the free diaper program for low-income families in the greater Boston area”; and by striking out the figure “$155,439,918” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$155,464,918".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-453
EHS 453
Services for Children and Families
Mr. Barrett and Ms. Rausch moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4800-0038, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $500,000 shall be expended to the Jewish Family and Children’s Service, Inc.’s Center for Early Relationship Support, including the Fragile Beginnings program, the Project Newborns Exposed to Substances: Support and Therapy and related clinical and community services for vulnerable families with children from birth to age 5, inclusive”; and by striking out the figure “$343,431,153” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$343,931,153”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-454
EHS 454
Bridge to Prosperity
Messrs. Gómez, Oliveira, Mark, Collins and Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4400-1000, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $550,000 shall be expended for the Bridge to Prosperity statewide cliff effect pilot program led by Springfield WORKS to support the continued implementation, evaluation, and completion of a 3-year demonstration program serving families across the commonwealth"; and by striking out the figure "$108,760,521" and inserting in place thereof the figure:- "$109,310,521".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-454-R1
Redraft EHS 454
Bridge to Prosperity
Messrs. Gómez, Oliveira, Mark, Collins and Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4400-1000, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to Springfield WORKS for its Bridge to Prosperity pilot program to mitigate cliff effects for low-income families"; and by striking out the figure "$108,760,521" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$109,010,521".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-455
EHS 455
413Cares
Messrs. Gómez, Velis and Oliveira moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0110, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended for the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts to support the 413Cares centralized database of community services in western Massachusetts”; and by striking out the figure “$6,218,222 ” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$6,318,222”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-456
EHS 456
Brazilian Women’s Group
Messrs. Brownsberger and Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7008-1116, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended to Brazilian Women’s Group, Inc. in the city of Boston, for services for immigrants”; and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$150,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-457
EHS 457
Streamlined Permitting for Food Trucks
Messrs. O'Connor, Durant, Payano and Tarr moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting the following sections:-
"SECTION XX. Chapter 111 of the General laws is hereby amended by adding the following section:-
Section 244. The commissioner of public health shall promulgate regulations for the annual health inspection of food trucks. The commissioner shall prescribe rules and regulations relative to inspection schedules, documentation of inspections, standards for acceptable cleanliness and the costs of such inspections.
SECTION XX. The commissioner of public health shall promulgate the regulations set forth in the previous section not later than 1 year after the enactment of this act."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-459
EHS 459
Lynn Community Health Center Capital Improvements
Mr. Crighton moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0110, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $200,000 shall be expended to the Lynn Community Health Center for capital and technology improvements to support enrollment and patient support services"; and by striking out the figure "$6,218,222" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$6,418,222".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-461
EHS 461
Pine Street Inn
Ms. Edwards, Mr. Keenan, Ms. Jehlen and Messrs. Payano and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, by inserting after item 7004-0108 the following item:- “7004-0109 for the shelter workforce development initiative, to provide pathways to careers in fields related to housing and homelessness; provided, that funds shall be expended to address barriers to obtaining and sustaining shelter employment including, but not limited to, transportation, loan repayment, tuition or certification fee reimbursement and child care; provided further, that, not less than $5,000,000 be made available to shelters contracted through item 7004-0101; provided further, that not less than $5,000,000 be made available to shelters contracted through item 7004-0102; and provided further, that not later than March 3, 2027, the secretary of housing and livable communities shall submit a report to the joint committee on housing and the house and senate committees on ways and means detailing the expenditures and hiring outcomes of the program ......................$10,000,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-462
EHS 462
Raising Harts
Messrs. O'Connor and Keenan moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5911-1003, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended to Raising Harts Corporation located in the town of Hanover for inclusive programming for individuals with disabilities”; and by striking out the figure “$107,462,218" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$107,512,218”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-463-R1
Redraft EHS 463
Expanding Access to Clinical Trials and Health Equity through Blue Bridge
Ms. Miranda and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $55,000 shall be expended to Blue Bridge Inc. to expand access to clinical trials and advance health equity through community engagement, patient navigation, outreach and education initiatives”; and by striking out the figure “$12,295,532”; and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$12,350,532”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-463
EHS 463
Expanding Access to Clinical Trials and Health Equity through Blue Bridge
Ms. Miranda moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to Blue Bridge Inc. for the purpose of expanding access to clinical trials and advancing health equity through community engagement, patient navigation, outreach, and education initiatives”; and by striking out the figure “$12,295,532” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$12,545,532”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-466-R1
Redraft EHS 466
Brien Center
Mr. Mark moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended for the Brien Center in the city of Pittsfield for the purpose of supporting recruitment and retaining of behavioral health professionals"; and by striking out the figure "$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$200,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-466
EHS 466
Brien Center
Mr. Mark moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended for the Brien Center in the City of Washington for the purpose of supporting recruitment and retaining of behavioral health professionals"; and by striking out the figure "$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$200,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-467-R1
Redraft EHS 467
Thomas P. Kennedy Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund Mission and Board Composition
Messrs. Brady, Keenan and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting the following section:-
“SECTION X. Section 59A of chapter 10 of the General Laws, as so appearing, is hereby amended by striking out the section and inserting in place thereof the following section:-
(a) There shall be established and set up on the books of the commonwealth a separate, non-budgeted special revenue fund known as Thomas P. Kennedy Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund, which shall be administered by the state treasurer. The fund shall be credited with: (i) revenue from appropriations or other money authorized by the general court and specifically designated to be credited to the fund; (ii) interest earned on such revenues; (iii) funds from public and private sources, including, but not limited to, gifts, grants, donations and settlements received by the commonwealth that are designated to be credited to the fund; (iv) monies paid to the commonwealth on a surcharge of $50 assessed against any person who seeks reinstatement of a license to operate after the license has been suspended as a result of receiving 3 speeding convictions pursuant to section 17 of chapter 90 within any 1–year period or as a result of receiving 3 surchargeable offenses within any 2–year period or as a result of receiving 7 surchargeable offenses within any 3–year period. The surcharge assessed against a person who seeks reinstatement of the person's license to operate after the license has been suspended shall be $50 greater for each successive reinstatement under this section. The surcharge shall be transferred by the registrar of motor vehicles to the state treasurer for deposit into the Thomas P. Kennedy Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund.
(b) Amounts credited to the fund shall be expended, without further appropriation, for the purpose of medical cure research and clinical trials in acute and chronic research for spinal cord injured persons in such manner as the commissioner of public health may direct. The unexpended balance in the fund at the end of a fiscal year shall remain available for expenditure in subsequent fiscal years. No expenditure made from the fund shall cause the fund to be in deficit at any point.
(c) The commissioner of public health shall appoint an advisory board of the fund, consisting of 3 physicians and 2 members of the spinal cord community for the purpose of reviewing proposals for funding research in spinal cord injury and making related recommendations. A fee of $1,000 per out-of-state reviewer shall be paid for by the fund.”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-467
EHS 467
Thomas P. Kennedy Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund Mission and Board Composition
Messrs. Brady and Keenan moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting the following section:-
“SECTION X. Section 59A of chapter 10 of the General Laws, as so appearing, is hereby amended by inserting after the word “of”, in line X, the following words:- “(i) any revenue from appropriations or other monies authorized by the general court and specifically designated to be credited to the fund; (ii) all revenues received by the commonwealth from public and private sources as gifts, grants and donations to support and maintain the Thomas P. Kennedy Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund; and (iii)”; and by striking out the word “services” and inserting in place thereof the following words:- “and clinical trials in acute and chronic research”; and by inserting after the word “recommendations” the following words:- “A fee of one thousand dollars per out-of-state reviewer shall be paid for by the fund.”; and by striking out the words “2 physicians and 1 member” and inserting in place thereof the words “3 physicians and 2 members”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-468
EHS 468
It Takes A Village
Mr. Mark moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1503, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to It Takes A Village in the town of Huntington for postpartum and early parenting support for families in the western region of the commonwealth”; and by striking out the figure “$18,968,353” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$18,993,353”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-469
EHS 469
Study of Adopting a Single PBM for All MassHealth Plans
Ms. Creem and Ms. Rausch moved that the proposed new text be amended by adding the following section:-
"SECTION X. The health policy commission, in consultation with the executive office for health and human services, shall study whether the commonwealth should, for all MassHealth plans offered under chapter 118E, operate a single pharmacy benefit manager or contract with a single pharmacy benefit manager that is not under common ownership with a pharmacy or health plan and that is required to use pass-through pricing. The study shall consider the impact of such a change on: (i) costs to the state and to MassHealth patients; (ii) the quality of health care delivered to MassHealth patients; (iii) payments to and administrative burdens on pharmacies; (iv) the financial well-being of independent pharmacies; and (v) the number of pharmacies, including specialty pharmacies, available to MassHealth patients. In conducting the study, the health policy commission shall consider the experiences of states that have already adopted a single pharmacy benefit manager for Medicaid plans, including, but not limited to, New York, Ohio, Kentucky, Mississippi, Minnesota, Virginia, and Nevada. By not later than July 1, 2027, the health policy commission shall report the findings of its study, together with any recommendations for legislation or regulation, to the chairs of the joint committee on health care financing, the chairs of the joint committee on financial services, the chair of the Senate committee on ways and means, the chair of the House committee on ways and means, and the clerks of the House and Senate."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-470
EHS 470
Thomas P. Kennedy Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund Appropriation
Messrs. Brady, Keenan and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2E, by inserting the following item:-
“4514-0200 Thomas P. Kennedy Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund............................. $6,233,788”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-472
EHS 472
Thomas P. Kennedy Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund Administrative
Messrs. Brady, Keenan and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0100, by adding the following words:- ''; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended to administer the Thomas P. Kennedy Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund”; and by striking out the figure "$35,376,194" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$35,476,194".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-473
EHS 473
MA Commission on LGBTQ Aging
Ms. Jehlen, Mr. Cyr, Ms. Rausch, Ms. Edwards, Messrs. Eldridge and Montigny and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-0100, by adding the following words:- "; provided further that not less than $120,000 shall be expended to Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Aging through Fenway Health for staffing and operations to support the permanent commission on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning older adults and their caregivers established in section 71 of chapter 3 of the General Laws"; and by striking out the figure $19,507,751" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$19,627,751".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-474-R1
Redraft EHS 474
Combatting Food Insecurity
Ms. Edwards and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 2511-0107, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for the Veterans Food Bank in the city known as the town of Winthrop for food services; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for Grace Church Federated in the East Boston section of the city of Boston for food services; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for Friday Night Supper Program, Inc. in the Back Bay section of the city of Boston for food services; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for the First Congregational Church of Revere in the city of Revere for its food pantry; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for the East Boston Community Soup Kitchen, Inc. to provide food aid and additional services”; and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$150,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-474
EHS 474
Combatting Food Insecurity
Ms. Edwards moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 2511-0107, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for food services at the Veterans Food Bank in the city known as the town of Winthrop; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for food services at the Grace Church Federated in the East Boston section of the city of Boston; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for food services at the Friday Night Supper Program, Inc. in the Back Bay section of the city of Boston; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for the food pantry at the First Congregational Church of Revere in the city of Revere"; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for the East Boston Community Soup Kitchen, Inc. to provide food aid and additional services”; and by striking out the figure “100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “150,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-475
EHS 475
Geriatric Mental Health Program
Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Cyr and Mark, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Velis and O'Connor, Ms. Lovely and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-1640, by striking the figure "$2,455,303" and inserting in place thereof the figure:- "2,655,303".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-476
EHS 476
Maximizing the Independent Living Skills of Legally Blind Residents
Ms. Creem moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4110-1000, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $1,100,000 shall be expended by the Massachusetts commission for the blind to maximize the independent living skills of legally blind residents of the commonwealth through rehabilitation programs, housing assistance services, adjustment counseling services and the provision of accessible devices, assistive software and equipment and supportive technology training provided by qualified nonprofit providers in community, residential, virtual and facility-based settings; provided further, that not less than $500,000 of said $1,100,000 shall be made available for the Carroll Center for the Blind, Inc. and not less than $300,000 of said $1,100,000 shall be made available for the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired”; and by striking out the figure “$7,772,782” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$8,872,782”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-476-R1
Redraft EHS 476
Maximizing the Independent Living Skills of Legally Blind Residents
Ms. Creem and Messrs. Montigny and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4110-1000, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $1,100,000 shall be expended by the Massachusetts commission for the blind to maximize the independent living skills of legally blind residents of the commonwealth through rehabilitation programs, housing assistance services, adjustment counseling services and the provision of accessible devices, assistive software and equipment and supportive technology training provided by qualified nonprofit providers in community, residential, virtual and facility-based settings; provided further, that not less than $500,000 of said $1,100,000 shall be made available for the Carroll Center for the Blind, Inc. and not less than $300,000 of said $1,100,000 shall be made available for the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired”; and by striking out the figure “$7,772,782” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$8,572,782”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-477
EHS 477
International Institute of New England
Ms. Creem and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5046-0000, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $300,000 shall be expended for the International Institute of New England, Inc. for culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health services”; and by striking out the figure “$694,776,424” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$695,076,424”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-478-R1
Redraft EHS 478
Center for Teen Empowerment
Ms. Miranda and Ms. Jehlen moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1507, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $120,000 shall be expended to the Center for Teen Empowerment, Inc. for support and community engagement programs for at-risk youth”; and by striking out the figure “$7,200,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$7,320,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-478
EHS 478
Center for Teen Empowerment
Ms. Miranda and Ms. Jehlen moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1507, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $120,000 be expended to the Center for Teen Empowerment”; and by striking out the figure “$7,200,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$7,320,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-479
EHS 479
MassHealth Dental Benefits
Messrs. Mark and Lewis, Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Collins, Keenan, Driscoll and Payano, Ms. Edwards and Messrs. Brady, O'Connor and Oliveira moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 42, subsection (b) by inserting after the word “adults on a per patient basis or in aggregate” the following words:-“; provided further that both partial and complete removable dentures shall not be subject to any monetary cap of benefits”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-480
EHS 480
Baystate Brightwood
Messrs. Gómez and Oliveira moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0110, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended for the Baystate Brightwood Health Center in the city of Springfield to assist in neighborhood outreach"; and by striking the figure "$6,218,222"; and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$6,268,222".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-481
EHS 481
The Brookline Center for Community Mental Health
Ms. Creem moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0300, by adding the following words:- “; provided that not less than $250,000 shall be expended for the Brookline Community Mental Health Center, Inc. to expand the healthy lives program”; and by striking out the figure “$155,439,918” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$155,689,918”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-482-R1
Redraft EHS 482
Parent Villages
Mr. Gómez moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1507, by adding the following words:- "; provided further that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to Parent Villages, Inc. for its youth outreach center"; and by striking the figure "$7,200,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$7,225,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-482
EHS 482
Parent Villages
Mr. Gómez moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1507, by adding the following words:- "; provided further that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to Parent Villages, Inc. youth outreach center"; and by striking the figure "$7,200,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$7,225,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-483
EHS 483
Lorraine's Soup Kitchen
Messrs. Gómez, Velis and Oliveira moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 2511-0107, by adding the following words:- "; provided further that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to Lorraine's Soup Kitchen and Pantry in the city of Chicopee to support food aid and additional services"; and by striking out the figure "$100,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure "$125,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-484
EHS 484
Gardening the Community
Mr. Gómez moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 2511-0107, by adding the following words:- "; provided further that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to Third Sector New England, Inc. for Gardening the Community to address food insecurity in the city of Springfield"; and by striking the figure "$100,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure "$125,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-485
EHS 485
Massachusetts Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence
Ms. Creem, Ms. Rausch and Mr. Keenan moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0005, by adding the following words:- “; provided that not less than $100,000 shall be expended for the Massachusetts Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence, Inc. for the operation of comprehensive educational programming on gun violence and gun violence prevention”; and by striking out the figure “$12,474,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$12,574,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-485-R1
Redraft EHS 485
Massachusetts Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence
Ms. Creem, Ms. Rausch, Mr. Eldridge, Ms. Miranda and Messrs. Montigny and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0005, by adding the following words:- “; provided, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended for the Massachusetts Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence, Inc. for the operation of comprehensive educational programming on gun violence and gun violence prevention”; and by striking out the figure “$12,474,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$12,524,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-486
EHS 486
Neighborhood-Based Gun and Violent Crime Prevention
Ms. Creem, Messrs. Gómez and Keenan, Ms. Miranda, Mr. Eldridge, Ms. Howard, Mr. Lewis, Ms. Jehlen and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1504, by striking out the figure "$10,107,331" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$11,107,331".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-487-R1
Redraft EHS 487
Children Services of Roxbury
Ms. Miranda, Mr. Collins, Ms. Edwards and Mr. Finegold moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5042-5000, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to Children’s Services of Roxbury, Inc. to expand statewide youth mental health and family stabilization services and prevent out-of-home placements, mental health hospitalization and department of children and families involvement”; and by striking out the figure “$136,668,638” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$136,918,638”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-487
EHS 487
Children Services of Roxbury
Ms. Miranda, Mr. Collins and Ms. Edwards moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5042-5000, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $1,000,000 shall be expended to Children Services of Roxbury to expand statewide youth mental health and family stabilization services and prevent out-of-home placements, mental health hospitalization, and department of children and families involvement”; and by striking out the figure “$136,668,638” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$137,668,638”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-488
EHS 488
Supporting School-Based Bridge Programs for Youth
Ms. Friedman, Ms. Creem, Messrs. Keenan, Gómez and Cyr, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Payano, Durant, Mark, Eldridge, Oliveira, Velis and Collins and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-0250, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $750,000 shall be expended to enhance the commonwealth's capacity to support the development of school-based bridge programs for youth who have had prolonged absence due to hospitalization for physical or mental health care"; and by striking out the figure “$21,975,010” and in inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$22,725,010”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-488-R1
Redraft EHS 488
Supporting School-Based Bridge Programs for Youth
Ms. Friedman, Ms. Creem, Messrs. Keenan, Gómez and Cyr, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Payano, Durant, Mark, Eldridge, Oliveira, Velis and Collins, Ms. Howard, Ms. Miranda and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-0250, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $500,000 shall be expended to enhance the commonwealth's capacity to support the development of school-based bridge programs for youth who have had prolonged school absence due to hospitalization for physical or mental health care"; and by striking out the figure “$21,975,010” and in inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$22,475,010”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-492
EHS 492
GLP-1 Coverage Loss Study
Ms. Friedman, Ms. Rausch and Mr. Payano moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 1108-5200, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $297,268 shall be expended for the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to conduct a study and issue a report on the impact of discontinuing health insurance coverage for glucagon-like peptide-1 medications for patients with obesity on health status and health care utilization; provided further, the report shall include, but not be limited to, an analysis of: (i) the impacts for utilization of health care services, total medical spending and enrollee out-of-pocket spending of discontinuing glucagon-like peptide-1 medication coverage; (ii) how individuals and providers respond to discontinued coverage of glucagon-like peptide-1 medications including, but not limited to, paying for the medication out of pocket or recoding patient diagnoses; and (iii) how the impacts vary across groups of individuals; and provided further, said funds shall be made available until fiscal year 2029”; and by striking out the figure “$155,439,918” and in inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$155,737,186”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-492-R1
Redraft EHS 492
GLP-1 Coverage Loss Study
Ms. Friedman, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Payano and O'Connor, Ms. Edwards, Ms. Lovely and Mr. Tarr moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 1108-5100, by striking out the following words:- “and provided further, that not later than February 5, 2027, the commission shall submit a report to the joint committee on health care financing and the house and senate committees on ways and means detailing: (a) the impact of the elimination of coverage of glucagon-like peptide-1 medications for obesity management on subscriber finances and health; (b) the annualized cost savings associated with the elimination of coverage; and (c) short- and long-term strategies for limiting the cost growth of high-cost medications including, but not limited to, glucagon-like peptide-1 medications”; and
in said section 2, in item 1108-5100, by adding the following words:- “provided further, that not less than $300,000 shall be expended to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to conduct a study and issue a report on the impact of discontinuing commercial and public health insurance coverage for glucagon-like peptide-1 medications for patients with obesity on health status and health care utilization; provided further, that such funds shall be made available until June 30, 2029; provided further, that the report shall be submitted to the executive office for administration and finance, the joint committee on health care financing and the house and senate committees on ways and means and shall include, but not be limited to, an analysis of: (a) the impacts of discontinued coverage for glucagon-like peptide-1 medications on health care services utilization, total medical spending and enrollee out-of-pocket spending; (b) how individuals and providers respond to discontinued coverage of glucagon-like peptide-1 medications including, but not limited to, paying for the medication out of pocket or recoding patient diagnoses; (c) how the impacts vary across groups of individuals; and (d) the comparison of health outcomes and total medical spending between enrollees that have lost coverage of glucagon-like peptide-1 medications and enrollees who have maintained coverage for glucagon-like peptide-1 medications for obesity management; and provided further, that not later than February 7, 2027, the commission shall submit a report to the executive office for administration and finance, the joint committee on health care financing and the house and senate committees on ways and means detailing the preliminary findings of the study”; and by striking out the figure “$5,824,752” and in inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$6,124,752”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-493-R1
Redraft EHS 493
Protecting Public Worker Access to Health Care
Ms. Friedman, Messrs. Mark, Collins, Gomez, Cronin, Keenan and Payano, Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Rausch, Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Moore and Eldridge, Ms. Howard, Mr. Brady and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section 17 the following section:-
"SECTION 17A. Section 20 of chapter 32A of the General Laws, as so appearing, is hereby amended by inserting after the first sentence the following 2 sentences:- “No physician or other provider of services shall refuse to treat an individual covered by hospital, surgical, medical or catastrophic illness coverage offered by the commission under sections 4, 4A, 10B, 12 and 15 on the basis that the individual has such coverage. A physician or other provider of services who does not participate in commission coverage shall be reimbursed at the applicable out-of-network rate for the provided service then in effect at the time of treatment for the commission plan with the largest subscriber enrollment.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-493
EHS 493
Protecting Public Worker Access to Health Care
Ms. Friedman, Messrs. Mark, Collins, Gómez, Cronin, Keenan and Payano, Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Rausch, Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Moore and Eldridge, Ms. Howard and Mr. Brady moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section __ the following section:-
"SECTION __. Section 20 of chapter 32A of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, is hereby amended by inserting, in line 7, after the word “administrator.” the following words:- “No physician or other provider of services shall refuse to treat an individual covered by hospital, surgical, medical or catastrophic illness coverage offered by the commission under sections four, four A, ten B, twelve or fifteen of chapter 32A on the basis that the individual has such coverage. Said physician or other provider of services who does not participate in commission coverage shall be reimbursed at the applicable out of network rate for the provided service then in effect for the commission plan with the largest subscriber enrollment.”"
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-494-R1
Redraft EHS 494
Clarification of Dental Caps
Ms. Friedman, Mr. Collins, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Eldridge and Payano and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 42, by striking out subsections (b) and (c) and inserting in place thereof the following 2 subsections:-
“(b) Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, beginning in fiscal year 2027, the executive office of health and human services may impose a cap on a per patient basis for adult dental services; provided, however, that such cap shall not be less than $1,750 and shall exempt emergency services. The office may impose additional exemptions to such cap.
(c) Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, beginning in fiscal year 2027, the health safety net office established in section 65 of chapter 118E of the General Laws may impose a cap on a per patient basis for adult dental services; provided, however, that such cap shall not be less than $1,750 and shall exempt emergency services. The office may impose additional exemptions to such cap.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-494
EHS 494
Clarification of Dental Caps
Ms. Friedman, Mr. Collins, Ms. Rausch and Messrs. Eldridge and Payano moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 42, by striking out subsection (b) and inserting in place thereof the following subsection:-
“(b) Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, beginning in fiscal year 2027, the executive office of health and human services may impose caps on its coverage of dental services for adults on a per patient basis or in aggregate inclusive of changes, exclusions or limitations required to meet said cap; provided, that no coverage cap, change, exclusion or limitation shall result in any cap of less than $1,750 on covered services for adults.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-498
EHS 498
Preserving DMH Child and Adolescent Services and Programs
Ms. Creem, Ms. Kennedy and Messrs. Collins, Keenan, Eldridge, Moore, Payano, Brady and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5042-5000, by inserting after the words "stabilize youth in crisis" the following: "; provided further, that the department shall expend not less than the amount expended in fiscal year 2026 for flexible support services, intensive home-based therapeutic care, and therapeutic day services"; and by striking out the figure “$136,668,638” and inserting in place thereof the figure “$140,848,638”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-499
EHS 499
Adult Foster Care
Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Keenan, Mark, Gómez and Oliveira, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Moore, Eldridge, Fernandes and Driscoll, Ms. Howard, Mr. Payano, Ms. Edwards and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0601, by adding the following:- "; provided further, that any working group convened to review the adult foster care program shall evaluate the eligibility criteria, scope of services, program oversight, workforce supply and pipeline, short- and long-term cost growth, the current state of any structural change initiatives of the adult foster care program and make recommendations for the long-term sustainability and cost containment of the program; and provided further, that said working group shall submit said recommendations on or before October 1, 2026, to the secretary of administration and finance, house and senate committees on ways and means and the joint committee on health care financing and that no cost cutting measures will be implemented prior to the release of the working group’s recommendations.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-503
EHS 503
Emergency Room Diversion
Mr. Payano, Ms. Kennedy and Mr. Lewis moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5042-5000, by striking out the words "$6,000,000 may be expended for the department's emergency room diversion initiative to stabilize youth in crisis" and inserting in place thereof the following words:- "$7,000,000 shall be expended for the department's emergency room diversion initiative to stabilize youth in crisis"; and by striking out the figure "136,668,638" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "137,668,638".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-503-R1
Redraft EHS 503
Emergency Room Diversion
Mr. Payano, Ms. Kennedy, Mr. Lewis, Ms. Edwards and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5042-5000, by striking out the words "$6,000,000 may" and inserting in place thereof the following words:- "$6,500,000 shall"; and by striking out the figure "$136,668,638" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$137,168,638".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-506-R1
Redraft EHS 506
Subscription Amendment to Conform to AGO Guidance Language
Mr. Oliveira moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 28, by inserting after the word “lease”, in line 286, the following words:- “; provided, however, that “product” shall not include insurance products, other than property and casualty liability insurance, which are subject to Massachusetts statutory or regulatory requirements relative to the advertisement, offering, solicitation, sale or renewal of those products.”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-506
EHS 506
Subscription Amendment to Conform to AGO Guidance Language
Mr. Oliveira moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 28, by inserting after the word “lease”, in line 284, the following words:-
“; provided further, that insurance products which are subject to Massachusetts statutory or regulatory requirements concerning the advertisement, offer, solicitation, sale, or renewal of such products, other than property and casualty liability insurance, shall not be a “Product.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-508
EHS 508
Dementia Care Coordination
Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Collins and Keenan and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-1630, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $300,000 shall be expended for the Alzheimer's Association, Massachusetts Chapter, to administer an evidence-based program, Dementia Care Coordination, DCC, in order to reduce hospitalizations, emergency department visits and delay long-term care placements”; and by striking out the figure “$298,988,931 " and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$299,288,931”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-508-R1
Redraft EHS 508
Dementia Care Coordination
Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Collins and Keenan, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Gómez and Driscoll and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-1630, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $300,000 shall be expended for the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association, Massachusetts Chapter Inc. to administer an evidence-based dementia care coordination program in order to reduce hospitalizations and emergency department visits and to delay long-term care placements”; and by striking out the figure “$298,988,931" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$299,288,931”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-509-R1
Redraft EHS 509
Visiting Dental Hygiene
Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $5,000 shall be expended to Visiting Dental Hygiene, Inc. located in the town of Hingham to provide quality dental care in patients’ homes"; and by striking out the figure “$12,295,532" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$13,300,532”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-509
EHS 509
Visiting Dental Hygiene
Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended to Visiting Dental Hygiene, Inc. located in the town of Hingham to provide quality dental care in patients’ homes"; and by striking out the figure “$12,295,532" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$13,305,532”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-509-R2
2nd Redraft EHS 509
Visiting Dental Hygiene
Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $5,000 shall be expended to Visiting Dental Hygiene, Inc. located in the town of Hingham to provide quality dental care in patients’ homes"; and by striking out the figure “$12,295,532" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$12,300,532”.
SENATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. 3102
Senate, May 19, 2026 -- Text of amendment (510) (offered by Senator Oliveira) to the Ways and Means amendment (Senate, No. 4) to the House Bill making appropriations for the fiscal year 2027 for the maintenance of the departments, boards, commissions, institutions, and certain activities of the Commonwealth, for interest, sinking fund, and serial bond requirements, and for certain permanent improvements. |
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
_______________
In the One Hundred and Ninety-Fourth General Court
(2025-2026)
_______________
by inserting after section ____the following section:-
“SECTION_____. Chapter 32A of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 17Q, the following section:- Section 17R. (a) As used in this section, the following words shall have the following meanings:“Biomarker” means a characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic responses to a specific therapeutic intervention, including known gene-drug interactions for medications being considered for use or already being administered. Biomarkers include but are not limited to gene mutations, characteristics of genes or protein expression.“Biomarker testing” is the analysis of a patient’s tissue, blood, or other biospecimen for the presence of a biomarker. Biomarker testing includes but is not limited to single-analyte tests, multi-plex panel tests, protein expression, and whole exome, whole genome, and whole transcriptome sequencing.“Consensus statements” as used here are statements developed by an independent, multidisciplinary panel of experts utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. These statements are aimed at specific clinical circumstances and base the statements on the best available evidence for the purpose of optimizing the outcomes of clinical care.“Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” as used here are evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. Clinical practice guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care.(b) The commission shall provide to any active or retired employee of the commonwealth who is insured under the group insurance commission coverage for biomarker testing as defined in this section, pursuant to criteria established under subsection (c).
(c) Biomarker testing must be covered for the purposes of diagnosis, treatment, appropriate management, or ongoing monitoring of an enrollee’s disease or condition when the test is supported by medical and scientific evidence, including, but not limited to:
1. Labeled indications for an FDA-approved or -cleared test;
2. Indicated tests for an FDA-approved drug;
3. Warnings and precautions on FDA-approved drug labels;
4. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) National Coverage Determinations or any Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Local Coverage Determinations; or
5. Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines and consensus statements.
(d) coverage as defined in subsection (c) of this section shall be provided in a manner that limits disruptions in care including the need for multiple biopsies or biospecimen samples.
(e) In the case of coverage which requires prior authorization, a carrier or a utilization review organization subject to this section must approve or deny a prior authorization request or appeal and notify the enrollee, the enrollee’s health care provider and any entity requesting authorization of the service within 72 hours. If additional delay would result in significant risk to the insured’s health or well-being, a carrier or a utilization review organization shall approve or deny the request within 24 hours. If a response by a carrier or utilization review organization is not received within the time required under this paragraph, said request or appeal shall be deemed granted.
(f) The patient and prescribing practitioner shall have access to a clear, readily accessible, and convenient processes to request an exception to a coverage policy or an adverse utilization review determination. The process shall be made readily accessible on the carrier’s website.
SECTION_____. Chapter 118E of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 10L, the following section:-
Section 10M. (a) As used in this section, the following words shall have the following meanings:
“Biomarker” means a characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic responses to a specific therapeutic intervention, including known gene-drug interactions for medications being considered for use or already being administered. Biomarkers include but are not limited to gene mutations, characteristics of genes or protein expression.
“Biomarker testing” is the analysis of a patient’s tissue, blood, or other biospecimen for the presence of a biomarker. Biomarker testing includes but is not limited to single-analyte tests, multi-plex panel tests, protein expression, and whole exome, whole genome, and whole transcriptome sequencing.
“Consensus statements” as used here are statements developed by an independent, multidisciplinary panel of experts utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. These statements are aimed at specific clinical circumstances and base the statements on the best available evidence for the purpose of optimizing the outcomes of clinical care.
“Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” as used here are evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. Clinical practice guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care.
(b) The division and its contracted health insurers, health plans, health maintenance organizations, behavioral health management firms and third-party administrators under contract to a Medicaid managed care organization or primary care clinician plan shall provide coverage for biomarker testing as defined in this section, pursuant to criteria established under subsection (c).
(c) Biomarker testing must be covered for the purposes of diagnosis, treatment, appropriate management, or ongoing monitoring of an enrollee’s disease or condition when the test is supported by medical and scientific evidence, including, but not limited to:
1. Labeled indications for an FDA-approved or -cleared test
2. Indicated tests for an FDA-approved drug;
3. Warnings and precautions on FDA-approved drug labels;
4. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) National Coverage Determinations or any Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Local Coverage Determinations; or
5. Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines and consensus statements.
(d) coverage as defined in subsection (c) of this section shall be provided in a manner that limits disruptions in care including the need for multiple biopsies or biospecimen samples.
(e) In the case of coverage which requires prior authorization, a carrier or a utilization review organization subject to this section must approve or deny a prior authorization request or appeal and notify the enrollee, the enrollee’s health care provider and any entity requesting authorization of the service within 72 hours. If additional delay would result in significant risk to the insured’s health or well-being, a carrier or a utilization review organization shall approve or deny the request within 24 hours. If a response by a carrier or utilization review organization is not received within the time required under this paragraph, said request or appeal shall be deemed granted.
(f) The patient and prescribing practitioner shall have access to a clear, readily accessible, and convenient processes to request an exception to a coverage policy or an adverse utilization review determination. The process shall be made readily accessible on the carrier’s website.
SECTION_____. Chapter 175 of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 47KK, the following section:-
Section 47LL. (a) As used in this section, the following words shall have the following meanings: “Biomarker” means a characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic responses to a specific therapeutic intervention, including known gene-drug interactions for medications being considered for use or already being administered. Biomarkers include but are not limited to gene mutations, characteristics of genes or protein expression.
“Biomarker testing” is the analysis of a patient’s tissue, blood, or other biospecimen for the presence of a biomarker. Biomarker testing includes but is not limited to single-analyte tests, multi-plex panel tests, protein expression, and whole exome, whole genome, and whole transcriptome sequencing.
“Consensus statements” as used here are statements developed by an independent, multidisciplinary panel of experts utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. These statements are aimed at specific clinical circumstances and base the statements on the best available evidence for the purpose of optimizing the outcomes of clinical care.
“Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” as used here are evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. Clinical practice guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care.
(b) An individual policy of accident and sickness insurance issued under section 108 that provides benefits for hospital expenses and surgical expenses and any group blanket policy of accident and sickness insurance issued under section 110 that provides benefits for hospital expenses and surgical expenses delivered, issued or renewed by agreement between the insurer and the policyholder, within or outside the commonwealth, shall provide benefits for residents of the commonwealth and all group members having a principal place of employment in the commonwealth for biomarker testing as defined in this section, pursuant to criteria established under subsection (c).
(c) Biomarker testing must be covered for the purposes of diagnosis, treatment, appropriate management, or ongoing monitoring of an enrollee’s disease or condition when the test is supported by medical and scientific evidence, including, but not limited to:
1. Labeled indications for an FDA-approved or -cleared test
2. Indicated tests for an FDA-approved drug;
3. Warnings and precautions on FDA-approved drug labels;
4. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) National Coverage Determinations or any Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Local Coverage Determinations; or
5. Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines and consensus statements.
(d) coverage as defined in subsection (c) of this section shall be provided in a manner that limits disruptions in care including the need for multiple biopsies or biospecimen samples. disruptions in care including the need for multiple biopsies or biospecimen samples.
(e) In the case of coverage which requires prior authorization, a carrier or a utilization review organization subject to this section must approve or deny a prior authorization request or appeal and notify the enrollee, the enrollee’s health care provider and any entity requesting authorization of the service within 72 hours. If additional delay would result in significant risk to the insured’s health or well-being, a carrier or a utilization review organization shall approve or deny the request within 24 hours. If a response by a carrier or utilization review organization is not received within the time required under this paragraph, said request or appeal shall be deemed granted.
(f) The patient and prescribing practitioner shall have access to a clear, readily accessible, and convenient processes to request an exception to a coverage policy or an adverse utilization review determination. The process shall be made readily accessible on the carrier’s website.
SECTION_____. Chapter 176A of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 8MM, the following section:-
Section 8NN. (a) As used in this section, the following words shall have the following meanings:
“Biomarker” means a characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic responses to a specific therapeutic intervention, including known gene-drug interactions for medications being considered for use or already being administered. Biomarkers include but are not limited to gene mutations, characteristics of genes or protein expression.
“Biomarker testing” is the analysis of a patient’s tissue, blood, or other biospecimen for the presence of a biomarker. Biomarker testing includes but is not limited to single-analyte tests, multi-plex panel tests, protein expression, and whole exome, whole genome, and whole transcriptome, sequencing.
“Consensus statements” as used here are statements developed by an independent, multidisciplinary panel of experts utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. These statements are aimed at specific clinical circumstances and base the statements on the best available evidence for the purpose of optimizing the outcomes of clinical care.
“Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” as used here are evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. Clinical practice guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care.
(b) Any contract between a subscriber and the corporation under an individual or group hospital service plan that is delivered, issued or renewed within the commonwealth shall provide coverage for biomarker testing as defined in this section, pursuant to criteria established under subsection (c).
(c) Biomarker testing must be covered for the purposes of diagnosis, treatment, appropriate management, or ongoing monitoring of an enrollee’s disease or condition when the test is supported by medical and scientific evidence, including, but not limited to:
1. Labeled indications for an FDA-approved or -cleared test 2. Indicated tests for an FDA-approved drug;
3. Warnings and precautions on FDA-approved drug labels;
4. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) National Coverage Determinations or any Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Local Coverage Determinations; or
5. Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines and consensus statements.
(d) coverage as defined in subsection (c) of this section shall be provided in a manner that limits disruptions in care including the need for multiple biopsies or biospecimen samples.
(e) In the case of coverage which requires prior authorization, a carrier or a utilization review organization subject to this section must approve or deny a prior authorization request or appeal and notify the enrollee, the enrollee’s health care provider and any entity requesting authorization of the service within 72 hours. If additional delay would result in significant risk to the insured’s health or well-being, a carrier or a utilization review organization shall approve or deny the request within 24 hours. If a response by a carrier or utilization review organization is not received within the time required under this paragraph, said request or appeal shall be deemed granted.
(f) The patient and prescribing practitioner shall have access to a clear, readily accessible, and convenient processes to request an exception to a coverage policy or an adverse utilization review determination. The process shall be made readily accessible on the carrier’s website.
SECTION_____. Chapter 176B of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 4MM, the following section:-
Section 4NN. (a) As used in this section, the following words shall have the following meanings:
“Biomarker” means a characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic responses to a specific therapeutic intervention, including known gene-drug interactions for medications being considered for use or already being administered. Biomarkers include but are not limited to gene mutations, characteristics of genes or protein expression.
“Biomarker testing” is the analysis of a patient’s tissue, blood, or other biospecimen for the presence of a biomarker. Biomarker testing includes but is not limited to single-analyte tests, multi-plex panel tests, protein expression, and whole exome, whole genome, and whole transcriptome sequencing.
“Consensus statements” as used here are statements developed by an independent, multidisciplinary panel of experts utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. These statements are aimed at specific clinical circumstances and base the statements on the best available evidence for the purpose of optimizing the outcomes of clinical care.
“Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” as used here are evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. Clinical practice guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care.
(b) Any subscription certificate under an individual or group medical service agreement delivered, issued or renewed within the commonwealth shall provide coverage for biomarker testing as defined in this section, pursuant to criteria established under subsection (c).
(c) Biomarker testing must be covered for the purposes of diagnosis, treatment, appropriate management, or ongoing monitoring of an enrollee’s disease or condition when the test is supported by medical and scientific evidence, including, but not limited to:
1. Labeled indications for an FDA-approved or -cleared test
2. Indicated tests for an FDA-approved drug;
3. Warnings and precautions on FDA-approved drug labels;
4. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) National Coverage Determinations or any Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Local Coverage Determinations; or
5. Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines and consensus statements.
(d) coverage as defined in subsection (c) of this section shall be provided in a manner that limits disruptions in care including the need for multiple biopsies or biospecimen samples.
(e) In the case of coverage which requires prior authorization, a carrier or a utilization review organization subject to this section must approve or deny a prior authorization request or appeal and notify the enrollee, the enrollee’s health care provider and any entity requesting authorization of the service within 72 hours. If additional delay would result in significant risk to the insured’s health or well-being, a carrier or a utilization review organization shall approve or deny the request within 24 hours. If a response by a carrier or utilization review organization is not received within the time required under this paragraph, said request or appeal shall be deemed granted.
(f) The patient and prescribing practitioner shall have access to a clear, readily accessible, and convenient processes to request an exception to a coverage policy or an adverse utilization review determination. The process shall be made readily accessible on the carrier’s website.
SECTION____. Chapter 176G of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 4EE, as so appearing, the following section:-
Section 4FF. (a) As used in this section, the following words shall have the following meanings:
“Biomarker” means a characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic responses to a specific therapeutic intervention, including known gene-drug interactions for medications being considered for use or already being administered. Biomarkers include but are not limited to gene mutations, characteristics of genes or protein expression. “Biomarker testing” is the analysis of a patient’s tissue, blood, or other biospecimen for the presence of a biomarker. Biomarker testing includes but is not limited to single-analyte tests, multi-plex panel tests, protein expression, and whole exome, whole genome, and whole transcriptome sequencing.
“Consensus statements” as used here are statements developed by an independent, multidisciplinary panel of experts utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. These statements are aimed at specific clinical circumstances and base the statements on the best available evidence for the purpose of optimizing the outcomes of clinical care.
“Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” as used here are evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by independent organizations or medical professional societies utilizing a transparent methodology and reporting structure and with a conflict of interest policy. Clinical practice guidelines establish standards of care informed by a systematic review of evidence and an assessment of the benefits and risks of alternative care options and include recommendations intended to optimize patient care.
(b) Any individual or group health maintenance contract that is issued or renewed within or without the commonwealth shall provide coverage for biomarker testing as defined in this section, pursuant to criteria established under subsection (c).
(c) Biomarker testing must be covered for the purposes of diagnosis, treatment, appropriate management, or ongoing monitoring of an enrollee’s disease or condition when the test is supported by medical and scientific evidence, including, but not limited to:
1. Labeled indications for an FDA-approved or -cleared test
2. Indicated tests for an FDA-approved drug;
3. Warnings and precautions on FDA-approved drug labels; 4. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) National Coverage Determinations or any Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Local Coverage Determinations; or
5. Nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines and consensus statements.
(d) coverage as defined in subsection (c) of this section shall be provided in a manner that limits disruptions in care including the need for multiple biopsies or biospecimen samples.
(e) In the case of coverage which requires prior authorization, a carrier or a utilization review organization subject to this section must approve or deny a prior authorization request or appeal and notify the enrollee, the enrollee’s health care provider and any entity requesting authorization of the service within 72 hours. If additional delay would result in significant risk to the insured’s health or well-being, a carrier or a utilization review organization shall approve or deny the request within 24 hours. If a response by a carrier or utilization review organization is not received within the time required under this paragraph, said request or appeal shall be deemed granted.
(f) The patient and prescribing practitioner shall have access to a clear, readily accessible, and convenient processes to request an exception to a coverage policy or an adverse utilization review determination. The process shall be made readily accessible on the carrier’s website.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-511
EHS 511
Plan to Transfer Oversight of Bridgewater State Hospital
Ms. Creem and Mr. Brady moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5011-0100, by inserting after section X the following section: -
“SECTION X:- The Department of Mental Health, in consultation with the Department of Correction, shall develop a plan for the implementation of transferring Bridgewater State Hospital oversight from the Department of Corrections to the Department of Mental Health.
The plan shall include, but not be limited to:- (i) an estimated timetable for the plan’s implementation to secure transition and management of the operations of Bridgewater State Hospital by no later than December 31, 2028 with such transfer not contingent on the designation or construction of a new Bridgewater State Hospital facility; (ii) the impact Department of Mental Health oversight will have on access to clinical mental health services for residents of Bridgewater State Hospital; (iii) how the Department of Mental Health will maintain, in accordance with its standards, services to support the residents of Bridgewater State Hospital; (iv) potential additional measures to reduce and prevent mold growth and improve air quality for residents of Bridgewater State Hospital; (v) enhancements to staff training to ensure compliance with legal requirements regarding the use of restraints and seclusion on patients in a residential mental health care facility; (vi) any laws that would need to be amended to transfer oversight; (vii) staffing ratios; and (viii) any steps necessary to maintain a safe environment and improve the therapeutic environment for providers and residents of the facility.
By not later than July 1, 2027, the Department of Mental Health, in consultation with the Department of Correction, shall report this plan, to the chairs of the joint committee on health care financing, the chair of the Senate committee on ways and means, the chair of the House committee on ways and means, and the clerks of the House and Senate.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-511-R1
Redraft EHS 511
Plan to Transfer Oversight of Bridgewater State Hospital
Ms. Creem and Mr. Brady moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5011-0100, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that the department of mental health, in consultation with the department of correction, shall conduct a comprehensive investigation into the steps necessary to transfer the oversight and management of Bridgewater state hospital from the department of correction to the department of mental health; provided further, that not later than June 30, 2027, the department of mental health shall submit an implementation plan to the joint committee on mental health, substance use and recovery, joint committee on public safety and homeland security and the senate and house committees on ways and means detailing the findings and recommendations of the comprehensive investigation which shall include, but not be limited to: (i) an estimated timeline for the implementation of a secure transition of oversight and management of the operations of Bridgewater state hospital by not later than December 31, 2028 without requiring the designation or construction of a new facility; (ii) the potential impact that department of mental health oversight would have on access to clinical mental health services and supports for residents; (iii) drafts of legislation necessary to facilitate the transfer of oversight and management of the hospital; (iv) proposed enhancements to staff training to ensure compliance with the legal requirements regarding the use of restraints and seclusion on patients in a residential mental health care facility; (v) an analysis of current staffing ratios; (vi) proposed measures to reduce and prevent mold growth and improve air quality; (vii) the fiscal impacts associated with the transfer of oversight and management; and (viii) any additional measures to provide a safe and improved therapeutic environment for providers and residents of the hospital”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-511-R2
2nd Redraft EHS 511
Plan to Transfer Oversight of Bridgewater State Hospital
Ms. Creem and Messrs. Brady, Montigny and Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5011-0100, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that the department of mental health, in consultation with the department of correction, shall conduct a comprehensive investigation into the steps necessary to transfer the oversight and management of Bridgewater state hospital from the department of correction to the department of mental health; provided further, that not later than June 30, 2027, the department of mental health shall submit an implementation plan to the joint committee on mental health, substance use and recovery, joint committee on public safety and homeland security and the senate and house committees on ways and means detailing the findings and recommendations of the comprehensive investigation which shall include, but not be limited to: (i) an estimated timeline for the implementation of a secure transition of oversight and management of the operations of Bridgewater state hospital by not later than December 31, 2028 without requiring the designation or construction of a new facility; (ii) the potential impact that department of mental health oversight would have on access to clinical mental health services and supports for residents; (iii) drafts of legislation necessary to facilitate the transfer of oversight and management of the hospital; (iv) proposed enhancements to staff training to ensure compliance with the legal requirements regarding the use of restraints and seclusion on patients in a residential mental health care facility; (v) an analysis of current staffing ratios; (vi) proposed measures to reduce and prevent mold growth and improve air quality; (vii) the fiscal impacts associated with the transfer of oversight and management; and (viii) any additional measures to provide a safe and improved therapeutic environment for providers and residents of the hospital”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-512
EHS 512
Housing and Services for Unaccompanied Youth Experiencing Homelessness
Messrs. Eldridge, Lewis and Gómez, Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Keenan and Collins, Ms. Howard, Ms. Edwards and Mr. Moore moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0007, by striking out the figure "$10,439,590" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$12,000,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-513
EHS 513
Improving Access to Infertility Treatment
Ms. Creem, Mr. Cyr, Ms. Rausch, Ms. Edwards and Mr. Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended by adding the following three sections:-
"SECTION X. Section 47H of chapter 175 of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, is hereby amended by striking out the final two sentences and inserting in place thereof the following:-
For purposes of this section, “infertility” means a condition or status characterized by any of the following:
(1) A licensed physician’s findings, based on: a patient’s medical, sexual, and reproductive history; age; physical findings; diagnostic testing; or any combination of those factors. This definition shall not prevent testing and diagnosis of infertility to establish infertility with or without appropriate exposure to gametes, per the patient’s provider.
(2) The need for medical intervention, including, but not limited to, the use of donor gametes, donor embryos, or a gestational carrier to achieve a live birth either as an individual or with a partner.
(3) The failure to establish a pregnancy or to carry a pregnancy to live birth after unprotected sexual intercourse. For purposes of this section, “unprotected sexual intercourse” means no more than 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse for a person under 35 years of age or no more than 6 months of unprotected sexual intercourse for a person 35 years of age or older. Pregnancy that does not result in a live birth will not restart the 12-month or 6-month time period to qualify as having infertility.
(4) An impairment of reproductive ability due to factors including, but not limited to, medical condition, male factor, female factor, combined or unexplained reproductive challenges, genetic disorders, or iatrogenic infertility.
SECTION X. Section 8K of chapter 176A of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, is hereby amended by striking out the final two sentences and inserting in place thereof the following:-
For purposes of this section, “infertility” means a condition or status characterized by any of the following:
(1) A licensed physician’s findings, based on: a patient’s medical, sexual, and reproductive history; age; physical findings; diagnostic testing; or any combination of those factors. This definition shall not prevent testing and diagnosis of infertility to establish infertility with or without appropriate exposure to gametes, per the patient’s provider.
(2) The need for medical intervention, including, but not limited to, the use of donor gametes, donor embryos, or a gestational carrier to achieve a live birth either as an individual or with a partner.
(3) The failure to establish a pregnancy or to carry a pregnancy to live birth after unprotected sexual intercourse. For purposes of this section, “unprotected sexual intercourse” means no more than 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse for a person under 35 years of age or no more than 6 months of unprotected sexual intercourse for a person 35 years of age or older. Pregnancy that does not result in a live birth will not restart the 12-month or 6-month time period to qualify as having infertility.
(4) An impairment of reproductive ability due to factors including, but not limited to, medical condition, male factor, female factor, combined or unexplained reproductive challenges, genetic disorders, or iatrogenic infertility.
SECTION X. Section 4J of chapter 176B of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, is hereby amended by striking out the final two sentences and inserting in place thereof the following:-
For purposes of this section, “infertility” means a condition or status characterized by any of the following:
(1) A licensed physician’s findings, based on: a patient’s medical, sexual, and reproductive history; age; physical findings; diagnostic testing; or any combination of those factors. This definition shall not prevent testing and diagnosis of infertility to establish infertility with or without appropriate exposure to gametes, per the patient’s provider.
(2) The need for medical intervention, including, but not limited to, the use of donor gametes, donor embryos, or a gestational carrier to achieve a live birth either as an individual or with a partner.
(3) The failure to establish a pregnancy or to carry a pregnancy to live birth after unprotected sexual intercourse. For purposes of this section, “unprotected sexual intercourse” means no more than 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse for a person under 35 years of age or no more than 6 months of unprotected sexual intercourse for a person 35 years of age or older. Pregnancy that does not result in a live birth will not restart the 12-month or 6-month time period to qualify as having infertility.
(4) An impairment of reproductive ability due to factors including, but not limited to, medical condition, male factor, female factor, combined or unexplained reproductive challenges, genetic disorders, or iatrogenic infertility."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-514
EHS 514
YWCAs
Ms. Miranda, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Montigny, Oliveira, Gómez and Velis, Ms. Howard, Mr. Moore, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Collins, Eldridge and Payano, Ms. Lovely and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1507, by striking out the figure “$650,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$1,000,000”; and in said item by striking out the figure "$7,200,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$7,550,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-515
EHS 515
Improvements to HomeBASE
Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Gómez, Lewis and Payano, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Collins, Keenan and Moore, Ms. Howard, Mr. Eldridge, Ms. Edwards and Ms. Jehlen moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7004-0101, by striking out the figure “$30,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure: “$50,000” and by striking out the figure “$15,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure: “$25,000”; and in the same item by adding the following: “provided further, that the executive office shall not require families to be evicted from their existing housing or to otherwise establish that they fall into one of the four categories of affirmative eligibility for emergency assistance shelter currently listed in item 7004-0101; provided further, that families in summary process actions commenced for a reason determined by the executive office to be a no fault or excused fault reason for eviction shall be able to apply and be found eligible for short-term transition program benefits in order to prevent eviction from existing housing or permit the family to relocate to another housing situation; provided further, that the executive office shall allow families to apply and be found eligible for this short-term housing benefit after a summons and complaint is filed in court; provided further, families shall be found eligible for short-term housing transition benefits if, but for feasible alternative housing, they meet the requirements for family shelter”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-516
EHS 516
Menstrual Equity
Mr. Cyr, Ms. Jehlen, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Oliveira, Keenan, Gómez, Collins, Brady, Lewis and Payano, Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Eldridge, Montigny, Fernandes and Mark, Ms. Howard and Mr. Rush moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1005, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $260,000 shall be expended for the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Organization for Women to sustain and expand its menstrual equity program”; and by striking out the figure “$25,036,673” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$25,296,673”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-516-R1
Redraft EHS 516
Menstrual Equity
Mr. Cyr, Ms. Jehlen, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Oliveira, Keenan, Gómez, Collins, Brady, Lewis and Payano, Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Eldridge, Montigny, Fernandes and Mark, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Rush and Finegold, Ms. Lovely, Mr. O'Connor and Ms. Creem moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1005, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $150,000 shall be expended for the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Organization for Women to sustain and expand its menstrual equity program”; and by striking out the figure “$25,036,673” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$25,186,673”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-517-R1
Redraft EHS 517
Neighborhood Birth Center
Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Lewis and Collins, Ms. Rausch, Mr. Driscoll, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Eldridge, Moore and Payano, Ms. Edwards and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1503, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended for the Neighborhood Birth Center in the city of Boston to provide perinatal health care and prenatal and postpartum support to birthing people”; and by striking out the figure "$18,968,353" and inserting in place thereof the figure:- “$19,068,353".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-517
EHS 517
Neighborhood Birth Center
Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Lewis and Collins, Ms. Rausch, Mr. Driscoll, Ms. Howard and Mr. Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1503, by adding the following:- “; provided further, that not less than $300,000 shall be expended for the Neighborhood Birth Center in the city of Boston to provide perinatal health care and prenatal and postpartum support to birthing people”, and in said item by striking the figures "$18,968,353" and inserting in place thereof the figures “$19,268,353."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-519
EHS 519
Options Counseling
Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Collins and Keenan, Ms. Rausch and Messrs. Moore and Driscoll moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-0600, by inserting the following words:- “; provided further, that funds shall be expended from this item to implement the pre-admission counseling and assessment program established in the fourth paragraph of section 9 of chapter 118E of the General Laws, which shall be implemented on a statewide basis through the Aging and Disability Resource Consortia".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-520
EHS 520
Pernet Family Health Services of Worcester
Ms. Kennedy moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1503, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended to Pernet Family Health Services in the city of Worcester for its fourth trimester screening program”; and by striking out the figure “$13,853,103” and inserting in place thereof the following figures:- “$13,953,103”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-520-R1
Redraft EHS 520
Pernet Family Health Services of Worcester
Ms. Kennedy moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1503, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended to Pernet Family Health Services in the city of Worcester for its fourth trimester screening program”; and by striking out the figure “$18,968,353” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$19,068,353”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-521
EHS 521
Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts
Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Cyr and Payano, Ms. Miranda, Mr. Mark, Ms. Howard, Ms. Edwards, Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Moore and Collins, Ms. Rausch and Mr. Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0300, by inserting the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $2,000,000 shall be expended for Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts to support continuing access to sexual and reproductive health care and community needs”; and in said item by striking the figure “$155,438,918” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:-“$157,438,918”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-522
EHS 522
Worcester Center for New Americans
Ms. Kennedy moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4003-0122, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $125,000 shall be expended to Friendly House, Inc. for the operation of a Center for New Americans in the city of Worcester"; and by striking out the figure “$1,305,256” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$1,430,356”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-522-R1
Redraft EHS 522
Worcester Center for New Americans
Ms. Kennedy moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4003-0122, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $140,000 shall be expended to Friendly House, Inc. for the operation of a Center for New Americans in the city of Worcester"; and by striking out the figure “$1,305,256” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$1,445,256”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-524
EHS 524
Public Guardianship Services
Ms. Lovely and Mr. Payano moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-1636, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $200,000 shall be expended to Public Guardian Services to expand availability of guardianship services for the unbefriended population"; and in said item by striking out the figures "$51,596,156" and inserting in place thereof the figures "$51,796,156".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-525
EHS 525
LGBTQIA+ Aging Training/Technical Assistance and Outreach
Ms. Lovely, Mr. Cyr and Ms. Rausch moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-1630, by striking out, in line ___, the following words:- “;
“…provided further, that funding shall be expended for a contract with the LGBTQIA+ Aging Project for provider training including, but not limited to, home care and home health providers, councils on aging, skilled nursing facilities and adult day health programs and outreach to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender queer and questioning older adults and caregivers;” and inserting in place thereof the following words:- .... provided further, that not less than $150,000 shall be expended for a contract with the LGBTQIA+ Aging Project for provider training including, but not limited to, home care and home health providers, councils on aging and adult day health programs and outreach to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning older adults and to caregivers, and by striking out the figure "$298,988,931" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$299,138,931".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-526
EHS 526
Midwifery Workforce Development Fund
Ms. Lovely, Messrs. Mark, Lewis and Collins, Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Rausch, Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Keenan, Driscoll and Eldridge, Ms. Howard and Messrs. Rush, Moore, Payano and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-1503, by adding the following words:- ";
“provided further, that not less than $500,000 shall be allocated for a Midwifery Workforce Development Fund, administered by the department of public health in consultation with an advisory committee, that shall consist of the following members: a representative of the Massachusetts chapter of the National Association of Certified Professional Midwives, who shall serve as chair; a representative of the American College of Nurse Midwives; a member of the Pregnancy, Infancy and Early Childhood Division of the Department of Public Health; a representative of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers; and the following members chosen by the chair: a representative of a midwifery educational program; a representative of a community college; a representative of an organization concerned about reproductive justice and health equity; a representative of a safety net hospital; and a representative of a free-standing birth center; provided, that the fund shall serve the purpose of (i) providing assistance to students in education and training programs to qualify them to become licensed certified professional midwives, including, but not limited to: program costs, tuition, books and fees related to the cost of education and training for participants in training and educational programs, including distance learning programs and including tuition and other costs related to obtaining a midwifery degree or Midwifery Bridge Certificate; costs related to obtaining an applicable license, including, but not limited to, examination and licensing fees; stipends for program participants; and stipends for childcare and transportation for program participants; (ii) a student loan forgiveness program for certified professional midwives and certified nurse midwives; provided, that the program may require participants to practice in an underserved area or serve marginalized populations, as defined by the secretary in consultation with the advisory committee; (iii) a grant program to fund local initiatives supporting the development of educational programs for certified professional midwives; (iv) retention of practicing midwives, and mental health and psychosocial support for certified professional midwives and certified nurse midwives; and (v) with the approval of the advisory committee, other purposes consistent with the goals of the fund; provided, that annually, not later than December 1, the commissioner of the department of public health shall report on the activities of the fund to the clerks of the house of representatives and the senate and to the house and senate committees on ways and means and the joint committee on children, families and persons with disabilities, and shall publish the report on the public web site of the executive office of health and human services or the department of public health; provided further, that the report shall include (i) an accounting of expenditures made from the fund with a description of the authorized purpose of each expenditure; (ii) an accounting of amounts credited to the fund; and (iii) any unexpended balance remaining in the fund; and provided further, the report may also include analysis and recommendations prepared by the advisory committee, which may include recommendations for changes to this section," and in said item by striking out the figures “$18,968,353” and inserting in place thereof the figures “$19,468,353."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-527-R1
Redraft EHS 527
Human Service Transportation Advisory Board
Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Collins, Lewis and Payano, Ms. Edwards and Mr. Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0000, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that the executive office shall develop the report in consultation with a representative of: (a) The Arc of Massachusetts; (b) Massachusetts Statewide Independent Living Council; (c) Dignity Alliance Massachusetts; (d) Disability Policy Consortium Inc; (e) Massachusetts Association for Mental Health, Inc.; and (f) the Children’s Hospital Corporation”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-527
EHS 527
Human Service Transportation Advisory Board
Ms. Kennedy and Messrs. Collins and Lewis moved that the proposed new text be amended by adding the following section:-
“SECTION XX. Chapter 6 of the General Laws is hereby amended by adding the following section:-
Section 222. (a) There is hereby established within the executive office of health and human services the human service transportation (HST) consumer advisory board, hereinafter referred to as the board, to advance the quality of nonemergency transportation to medical, community and other health and human services for persons with disabilities across the commonwealth and to identify challenges and solutions to address the experience and concerns of consumers using this service in order to ensure that HST is safe and reliable for all consumers.
(b) The board shall engage in activities that support its goals to identify challenges and solutions, make recommendations for improvements and propose guidelines on non-emergency human services transportation in order to provide the highest quality of service for consumers in the commonwealth, identify opportunities for improved service and productivity and provide a strong safety net for vulnerable populations in rural and urban communities. These activities shall include, but not be limited to:
(i) activities that elicit consumer experiences, feedback and insight into program participation as well as the ability to invite representatives from vendors, providers and referral sources in their attempt to capture information relevant to their purpose;
(ii) a minimum of six public meetings annually, as required by subsection (d);
(iii) consumer listening sessions pursuant to paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (d);
(iv) an annual report, as required by subsection (d); and
(v) any other activity consistent with the purpose of the board.
(c) The board shall consist of 13 members who shall include; the secretary of health and human services or their designee who shall be a non-voting member and shall serve as the convenor of the board; the director of MassHealth or their designee who shall be a non-voting member; and 11 voting members appointed by the governor: 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers recommended by the Massachusetts developmental disabilities council; 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers recommended by the Massachusetts Mental Health Association; 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers recommended by the statewide independent living council; 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers recommended by Stavros center for independent living; 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers recommended by Independence Associates center for independent living; 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers recommended by the Boston Center for Independent Living, Inc.; 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers recommended by the Dignity Alliance; 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers recommended by Arc Massachusetts, Inc.; 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers recommended by the Disability Law Center; 1 of whom shall be appointed from a list of 3 consumers or consumer surrogates recommended by Mass Senior Care and the Massachusetts Council on Aging; and 1 of whom shall be appointed by the governor at their discretion.
(d)(1) The board shall meet a minimum of six times a year, all meetings of the board shall be held remotely and open to the public. Notice of remote meetings shall be posted as soon as reasonably possible prior to meeting. Notice shall be printed or posted in a legible, easily understandable format and shall contain the date, time and instructions for remote access and participation. The convenor of the meeting shall further include with the notice a listing of the topics that the convenor reasonably anticipates will be discussed at the meeting.
(2) In order to engage in in activities that elicit consumer experiences, feedback and insight into program participation as well as the ability to invite representatives from vendors, providers and referral sources in their attempt to capture information relevant to their purpose, the board shall host and report on two virtual consumer listening sessions annually, preceded by targeted outreach to users of human services transportation services.
(3) The consumer advisory board shall file an annual report of its recommendations with the clerks of the house of representatives and senate, the house and senate committees on ways and means, the joint committee on transportation, the joint committee on children, families and persons with disabilities, the secretary of health and human services and the secretary of transportation not later than December 1. The recommendations shall be used by the human services transportation office to improve non-emergency human services transportation broker services.
The human services transportation office will provide the Board with an update of its actions with regard to the report’s recommendations.
(4) The human services transportation office shall staff the consumer advisory task force, assist with facilitation for board outreach activities, and ensure its operation and scheduling.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-528
EHS 528
North Shore Community Health Center - El Centro Project
Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-1604, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $2,800,000 shall be expended to North Shore Community Health, Inc. for costs associated with El Centro project including, but not limited to, infrastructure expenses with connecting public health and affordable housing"; and by striking out the figure “$12,382,272” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$15,182,272".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-529
EHS 529
Personal Needs Allowance
Ms. Lovely, Messrs. Montigny, Collins and Keenan, Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Eldridge and Mark, Ms. Howard and Messrs. Driscoll and O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section ___ the following section: -
Section XX,
Section 1 of chapter 117A of the general laws, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, is hereby amended, by striking out the second paragraph, and inserting in place thereof, the following new paragraph:
Any person (i) who is eligible for assistance under the provisions of this chapter, (ii) who is not maintaining his or her own home, and (iii) who is receiving care in a licensed nursing home, a licensed chronic hospital, a licensed rest home or an approved public medical institution, shall retain an amount not less than seventy-two dollars and eighty cents of their monthly income for clothing, personal needs allowance, and leisure time activities. If there is no such income, or if such income is less than seventy-two dollars and eighty cents or such higher amount established the general appropriation bill, the recipient shall be paid the difference between such income and the amount for personal needs allowance established by the most recent fiscal year budget, provided further, that the personal needs allowance shall be increased annually thereafter by the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) for the Boston-Cambridge-Newton area, as published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The provisions of this section shall be effective on July 1, 2027.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-530-R1
Redraft EHS 530
Endometriosis Task Force
Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Rausch, Ms. Howard, Mr. Payano, Ms. Edwards, Messrs. Montigny and Velis and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section 36 the following section:-
“SECTION 36A. (a) The executive office of health and human services shall establish an endometriosis task force, which shall consist of: the secretary of health and human services or a designee, who shall serve as chair; the commissioner of public health or a designee; the commissioner of insurance or a designee; the assistant secretary for MassHealth or a designee; 2 representatives from the Massachusetts Medical Society; 1 representative from the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans, Inc.; and 4 persons to be appointed by the secretary of health and human services, 1 of whom shall be an individual with a diagnosis of endometriosis, 1 of whom shall be a representative of a pharmaceutical company that manufactures a drug or device for detecting, preventing or treating endometriosis and 1 of whom shall be a representative of a research, advocacy or support organization primarily serving persons diagnosed with endometriosis.
(b) The task force shall: (i) research and summarize advances made in research on and treatment and diagnosis of endometriosis; (ii) research and summarize advances made in access to care for persons with endometriosis; (iii) research and summarize services and support available to persons with endometriosis, including the commonwealth's activities and programs with respect to endometriosis; and (iv) develop a comprehensive, strategic plan to improve health outcomes for persons with endometriosis, including recommendations to: (A) advance research on endometriosis; (B) improve public awareness and recognition of endometriosis; (C) improve health care delivery for persons with endometriosis; (D) increase early and accurate diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis; (E) systematically advance the full spectrum of biomedical research on endometriosis; and (F) summarize any progress made relative related to the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.
(c) The task force shall submit a report of its findings, summaries, plan and recommendations to the governor and the clerks of the senate and house of representatives and the senate and house committees on ways and means not later than December 31, 2026.”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-530
EHS 530
Endometriosis Task Force
Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Rausch, Ms. Howard, Mr. Payano, Ms. Edwards and Mr. Montigny moved that the proposed new text be amended by adding the following section:-
“SECTION XX. Chapter 6A of the General Laws shall be amended by adding after section 16FF the following new section:-
Section 16GG. (a) Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, the executive office of health and human services shall establish an endometriosis task force. The task force shall consist of: the secretary of the executive office of health and human services or a designee, who shall serve as chair; the commissioner of the department of public health or a designee; the commissioner of insurance or a designee; the director of Medicaid or a designee; and 7 persons to be appointed by the secretary of the executive office of health and human services, 2 of whom shall be representatives from the Massachusetts Medical Society Alliance, Inc. appointed in consultation with their relevant specialty chapters, 1 of whom shall be a representative from the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans, Inc., 1 of whom shall be a representative from commercial health insurance plans or managed care organizations doing business in the commonwealth, 1 of whom shall be an individual with a diagnosis of endometriosis, 1 of whom shall be a representative of a pharmaceutical company that manufactures a drug or device for detecting, preventing or treating endometriosis and 1 of whom shall be a representative of a research, advocacy or support organization primarily serving individuals with a diagnosis of endometriosis.
(b) The task force shall: (i) develop and annually update a summary of the advances made in research on and treatment and diagnosis of endometriosis; (ii) develop and annually update a summary of the advances made in access to care for individuals with a diagnosis of endometriosis; (iii) monitor endometriosis research, services and support activities across the commonwealth, including coordination of the commonwealth's activities and programs with respect to endometriosis; (iv) develop and annually update a comprehensive strategic plan to improve health outcomes for individuals with a diagnosis of endometriosis, including recommendations to: (1) advance research on endometriosis; (2) improve public awareness and recognition of endometriosis; (3) improve health care delivery for individuals with a diagnosis of endometriosis; (4) improve the early and accurate diagnosis of endometriosis; and (5) systematically advance the full spectrum of biomedical research on endometriosis; and (v) develop and annually update the progress made in implementing such comprehensive strategic plan.
(c) The task force shall submit its recommendations to the governor and the clerks of the house of representatives and senate annually not later than December 31 of each year.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-532
EHS 532
Lifting Kids out of Deep Poverty
Messrs. DiDomenico, Keenan, Gómez, Mark and Lewis, Ms. Jehlen, Ms. Kennedy, Messrs. Collins, Fernandes, Brady and Driscoll, Ms. Howard, Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Eldridge, Rush, Crighton, Moore and Payano, Ms. Edwards and Mr. Montigny moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4403-2000, by inserting after “2026” the following words:- “plus 10 percent starting on October 1, 2026”; and further moves to amend the bill in section 2, in item 4408-1000 by inserting after “2026” the following: “plus 10 per cent starting on October 1, 2026”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-540
EHS 540
Duchenne Program at the University of Massachusetts Medical School
Mr. DiDomenico moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to the Duchenne Program at the University of Massachusetts medical school, to advance clinical care, research, and innovation for patients with complex disorders affecting the human nervous system”; and in said item, by striking out the figure "$12,295,532" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$12,545,532".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-541
EHS 541
ALS Association
Mr. DiDomenico moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by inserting after the words "youth tobacco use prevention and cessation programs" the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $300,000 shall be expended to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association, Massachusetts Chapter, Inc. to provide care services for individuals suffering with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis”; and by striking out the figure "$12,295,532" and inserting in place thereof the following figure: - "$12,595,532".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-541-R1
Redraft EHS 541
ALS Association
Mr. DiDomenico, Ms. Lovely, Messrs. O'Connor and Tarr, Ms. Rausch and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1112, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association, Massachusetts Chapter, Inc. to provide care services for individuals suffering with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis”; and by striking out the figure "$12,295,532" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$12,545,532".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-542
EHS 542
Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association
Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7008-1116, by adding the following words: "provided further, that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to the Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association of Greater Lowell, Inc. in the city of Lowell for transitional services for refugees" and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$125,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-543
EHS 543
Lowell Community Health Center Residency Program
Ms. Howard and Mr. Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0110, by adding the following words:- "; provided further that not less than $100,000 be directed to the Lowell Community Health Center's Residency Program for primary care doctors to be used for housing stipends for residents"; and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$200,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-543-R1
Redraft EHS 543
Lowell Community Health Center Residency Program
Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4510-0110, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended to Lowell Community Health Center, Inc. for its primary care residency program for housing stipends for primary care residents"; and by striking out the figure “$6,218,222” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$6,318,222”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-544
EHS 544
MassHealth-Funded Care Management Services
Ms. Howard and Messrs. Gómez, Eldridge and Payano moved that the proposed new text be amended adding the following section:-
"SECTION XX. Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, the executive
office of health and human services shall maintain MassHealth-funded care management services for MassHealth members who are active clients of the department of mental health, including those receiving adult community clinical services, the MassHealth population that is the most psychiatrically ill and at high risk of hospitalization and homelessness notwithstanding any reduction or elimination of funding for the community partners program more broadly. The executive office of health and human services shall contract directly with department of mental health contracted providers of adult community clinical services to continue providing care management services for said members, including care coordination, health navigation, arranging for long term services and supports, medication management support, prior authorization assistance, and discharge transition support, are preserved without interruption for the duration of fiscal year 2027."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-547-R1
Redraft EHS 547
Reproductive Care Training Pilot Program
Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Mark and Collins, Ms. Kennedy, Mr. Eldridge, Ms. Howard, Mr. Cyr, Ms. Lovely and Ms. Creem moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1005, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended for a reproductive health care training grant program to be administered by the department of public health for hospitals in the commonwealth to provide out-of-state medical residents with reproductive health care training consistent with residency programs in the commonwealth including, but not limited to, abortion care training if they cannot receive such training in the state where they are employed as a medical resident due to abortion restriction laws in place in such state; provided further, that grants shall be issued to hospitals in the commonwealth that provide abortion care training to medical residents; provided further, that each hospital grant recipient shall create and implement an application process for medical residents from states with abortion restriction laws which prevent the out-of-state medical resident from receiving reproductive health care training, including abortion care training, in the state where they are employed as a medical resident; provided further, that notwithstanding section 9A of chapter 112 of the General Laws, a medical student who has creditably completed not less than 2 years of study in a legally chartered medical school may practice medicine in a licensed health care facility in the commonwealth where reproductive health care may be lawfully provided under the supervision of a health care provider licensed in the commonwealth who, acting within the scope of that license, may provide such reproductive health care; and provided further, that not later than April 1, 2027, the department of public health shall collect data and submit a report to the joint committee on public health, the joint committee on health care financing, the house and senate committees on ways and means and the clerks of the house and senate that shall include, but not be limited to, (i) the number of applicants to each grant recipient program; (ii) the number of applicants accepted into each program; and (iii) at least 1 program description for a hospital providing training funded by the grant"; and by striking out the figure “$25,036,673” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$25,286,673".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-547
EHS 547
Reproductive Care Training Pilot Program
Ms. Rausch, Messrs. Mark and Collins, Ms. Kennedy, Mr. Eldridge and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1005, by adding the following words:- "; provided, that not less than $200,000 shall be expended for a reproductive health care training grant program for out-of-state medical residents to obtain reproductive health care training consistent with residency programs in the commonwealth, including but not limited to abortion care training; provided further, that grants shall be issued to hospitals in the commonwealth that provide abortion care training to medical residents; provided further, that hospital grant recipients shall create and implement an application process for medical students completing residencies in states with abortion restriction laws; provided further, that notwithstanding the provisions of section 9A of chapter 112 of the General Laws, a medical student who has creditably completed not less than two years of study in a legally chartered medical school wherever located may practice medicine in a licensed health care facility in the commonwealth where reproductive care may be lawfully provided under the supervision of a health care provider licensed in the commonwealth who, acting within the scope of that license, may provide reproductive care; and provided further, that not later than April 1, 2027, the department shall submit to the joint committee on public health, the joint committee on health care financing, the house and senate committees on ways and means, and the clerks of the house and senate a grant utilization report including, but not limited to, the number of medical student applicants to grant recipient programs, the number of applicants accepted into the programs, and one or more program descriptions"; and by striking out the figure “$300,503” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$500,503".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-548
EHS 548
REquipment Durable Medical Equipment/Assistive Technology Reuse program
Messrs. Brady, Gómez and Barrett, Ms. Kennedy, Ms. Rausch, Mr. Driscoll, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Eldridge, Fernandes, Mark and Velis, Ms. Lovely and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4120-4000, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $500,000 shall be expended to REquipment Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and Assistive Technology (AT) Reuse Program, Inc. to improve the independence of individuals with disabilities through the refurbishment and repair of home medical equipment and assistive technology”; and by striking
out the figure “$14,230,910” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$14,730,910”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-549
EHS 549
DDS Working Group
Ms. Howard and Messrs. Eldridge and Payano moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section ___, the following section:-
"SECTION ___.The executive office of health and human services shall convene a working group to review the scope of services and eligibility thresholds of the personal care attendant program; provided further, that the membership of the working group shall include, but not be limited to: (a) the secretary of health and human services or a designee; (b) a representative of the personal care attendant workforce council; (c) a representative of 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East; (d) a representative of the Massachusetts Senior Care Association; (e) a representative of the Massachusetts Senior Action Council; (f) a representative of The Arc of Massachusetts; and (g) a representative of the Disability Policy Consortium; provided further, that said working group shall evaluate the eligibility criteria, scope of services, program oversight, workforce supply and pipeline, short- and long-term cost growth, the current state of any structural change initiatives related to pre-admission counselling, screenings, assessments and coordination of care and any other component of the personal care attendant program and make recommendations for the long-term sustainability and cost containment of the program; provided further, that said working group shall submit said recommendations on or before March 7, 2025, to the secretary of administration and finance, house and senate committees on ways and means and the joint committee on health care financing;"
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-550
EHS 550
Community Teamwork, Inc
Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5042-5000, by adding the following words:- "provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended for Community Teamwork Inc. in the City of Lowell for the purpose of operating programs promoting children's behavioral health and educational success" and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$150,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-550-R1
Redraft EHS 550
Community Teamwork, Inc
Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5042-5000, in item 5042-5000, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended to Community Teamwork Inc. in the city of Lowell to operate programs promoting children's behavioral health and educational success"; and by striking out the figure “$136,668,638” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$136,718,638”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-551-R1
Redraft EHS 551
Ensuring Pregnancy Supports
Ms. Rausch, Mr. Brady, Ms. Miranda, Messrs. Eldridge, Driscoll and Payano, Ms. Edwards, Ms. Lovely, Ms. Howard and Ms. Creem moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4403-2000, by striking out the word “medically”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-551
EHS 551
Ensuring Pregnancy Supports
Ms. Rausch, Mr. Brady, Ms. Miranda and Mr. Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4403-2000, by striking out the word “medically”;
and further moved that the proposed new text be amended by adding the following new section:-
“SECTION XX. The first paragraph of section 2 of chapter 118 of the General Laws is hereby amended by striking out the word “medical”.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-552
EHS 552
Meher Foundation
Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7008-1116, by adding the following words:- "; provided further, that not less than $100,000 shall be expended to Meher Foundation, Inc. for transitional services for refugees in the City of Lowell" and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$200,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-553-R1
Redraft EHS 553
Halifax Council on Aging
Mr. Brady moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-9002, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended to the Halifax council on aging for staffing and general operations; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended to the East Bridgewater council on aging for its grab and go program”; and by striking out the figure “$29,224,266” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$29,284,266”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-553
EHS 553
Halifax Council on Aging
Mr. Brady moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-9002, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $50,000 shall be expended to the Halifax Council on Aging for staffing and general operations”; and by striking out the figure “$29,224,266” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$29,274,266”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-556
EHS 556
Whitman Council on Aging
Mr. Brady moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 9110-9002, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $30,000 shall be expended to the Whitman Council on Aging for general operations”; and by striking out the figure “$29,224,266” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$29,254,266”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-557
EHS 557
Samaritans
Ms. Rausch, Mr. Keenan and Ms. Howard moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1027, by striking out the figure "$1,000,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$2,000,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-557-R1
Redraft EHS 557
Samaritans
Ms. Rausch, Mr. Keenan, Ms. Howard, Messrs. Cyr and Velis, Ms. Lovely and Messrs. O'Connor, Montigny and Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4513-1027, by striking out the figure "$1,000,000" and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- "$1,800,000".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-560
EHS 560
Substance Use Treatment Program
Mr. Velis and Ms. Lovely moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4512-0205, by adding the following words:- “, provided further, that not less than $25,000 shall be expended to Baystate Noble Hospital Corporation in the city of Westfield for a grant program to prevent and treat addiction to opioids and related substances,”; and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure: - “$125,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-564
EHS 564
Naloxone Sourcing
Mr. Driscoll moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4590-0930, by inserting the following phrase:- "; provided, that when sourcing intranasal naloxone products, the department of public health shall apply evaluation criteria intended to expand access to lifesaving naloxone, strengthen supply reliability for statewide distribution, and reduce product expiration waste, and shall give preference to drug manufacturers that meet the following criteria: at least two continuous years of experience manufacturing and assembling intranasal naloxone products in the United States; demonstrated capacity to ship intranasal naloxone products to dispersed sites across the state; a consistent history of maintaining publicly accessible financial, governance, and operational information, with independent verification as required under applicable federal and state laws or regulations; an established operational presence in the state; demonstrated ability to provide distribution data insights and educational and training materials; and ability to provide the maximum available shelf life from date of manufacturing."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-565
EHS 565
Supporting Healthcare Providers
Mr. Driscoll and Ms. Rausch moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4000-0300, by inserting the following:- "provided further, the agency shall establish a 1-year pilot program to provide reimbursement coverage for Influenza vaccine to health care providers to provide immunization-related counseling, education and clinical services related to Current Procedural Terminology codes 90482, 90483, and 90484, including the provision of evidence-based vaccine education to enrollees and their families irrespective of whether an immunization is ultimately administered; provided further, that the agency shall, not later than 90 days following the conclusion of said pilot program, report to the house and senate committees on ways and means and the joint committee on health care financing on the number of providers and enrollees served, reimbursement rates and total expenditures, and recommendations on whether said program increased immunization rates for influenza and should be expanded or made permanent.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-566
EHS 566
Removing Behavioral Health from Determination of Need Process
Mr. Driscoll moved that the proposed new text be amended by adding after section 60 the following new section:
"SECTION XX. Section 25C ½ of chapter 111 of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, is hereby amended by inserting after subsection (a)(4) the following subsection:-
(5) A health facility if the facility plans to make a capital expenditure for the development of acute psychiatric services including, inpatient, community based acute treatment, intensive community based acute treatment, partial hospitalization program, and crisis stabilization services; provided that the health facility demonstrates the need for a license from the department of mental health pursuant to paragraph c of section 19 of chapter 19 of the General Laws, as so appearing."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-567
EHS 567
Meghan’s Light
Mr. Velis moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 2511-0107, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $10,000 shall be expended for Meghan’s Light, Inc. in the town of Hadley for food assistance to individuals struggling with cystic fibrosis”; and by striking out the figure “$100,000” and inserting in place thereof the following figure:- “$110,000”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-570
EHS 570
Stonehill College Nursing
Mr. Driscoll moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4200-0200, by adding the following: "provided further, that not less than $250,000 shall be expended to Stonehill College for the development of a nursing simulation lab to enhance clinical training and expand the health workforce pipeline".
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-572
EHS 572
Public Input Relative to Nursing Home Ownership or Name Changes
Mr. Driscoll moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting, after Section 60, the following new section:
Section XX. Chapter 30A of the general laws, as appearing in the 2024 Official Edition, is hereby amended by inserting after section 1D, the following new section:
Section 1E. The department of public health shall, upon application for name change, transfer or ownership or of closure of any facility licensed pursuant to the provision of chapter 111, or on petition of ten taxpayers, hold a public hearing including availability for both in-person and virtual testimony via Zoom or Teams and any other appropriate media, and shall notify the applicant, the chief executive of the municipality in which the affected facility or facilities may be located, the facility resident and family council, any labor organization that represents employees of the facility, that area agency on aging and aging services access point in which the facility is located, members of the General Court in whose district the facility may be located, and by publishing notice on the department official web site and the web site of the affected facility or facilities. Notice shall be provided in English, any language that is the primary language of the affected residents, and any other language required by law or regulation. No transfer of ownership or closure shall occur prior to said public hearing and publication of the findings of said hearing by the Department.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-573
EHS 573
Building a system to reduce individual homelessness
Messrs. Driscoll and Keenan, Ms. Jehlen and Mr. O'Connor moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 7004-0102, by striking the figure “$114,036,718” and replacing it with the figure “$115,000,000
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-578-R1
Redraft EHS 578
Easterseals
Messrs. Collins, Brady, Cronin, Keenan, Moore and Driscoll, Ms. Howard, Mr. Eldridge and Ms. Edwards moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4120-4000, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that not less than $500,000 shall be expended for MassAbility Assistive Technology Independent Living Program”; and by striking out the figure “$14,230,910” and inserting in place thereof the figure:- "$14,730,910”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-578
EHS 578
Easterseals
Mr. Collins moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 4120-4000, by striking out the figure “$14,230,910” and inserting in place thereof the figure:- “$14,231,410” and in said item by adding the following: “that not less than $500,000 shall be expended for MassAbility Assistive Technology Independent Living Program”.
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-579
EHS 579
Health Care Provider Value Maximization Study
Mr. Tarr moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after Section ____ the following new section:--- "The center for health information and analysis shall conduct a study of the delivery of healthcare in the commonwealth, with regard to the delivery of specific types of care provided by all categories of providers, including but not limited to primary care physicians and specialists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, certified nursing assistants, pharmacists, and others who provide direct patient care and who are licensed to practice and/or receive funding from the commonwealth or a commercial insurer licensed by the commonwealth to provide payment for the delivery of one or more healthcare services, for the purpose of determining possible changes to maximize the delivery of quality care achievable at the lowest cost by each category of provider. In conducting such study the center shall consider factors including but not limited to the scope of practice of each category of provider and possible changes to reduce the cost of care while maintaining effectiveness and patient safety, the potential for increasing access to care through changes to the service delivery structure, including but not limited to the scope of practice, the potential to maximize the beneficial use of technology to improve the quality of care and reduce the costs of care, and any other factors relevant to the purpose of such study.
In conducting said study, the center shall consult with provider and payer organizations including but not limited to the Massachusetts Medical Society, the Massachusetts Nurses Association, the Massachusetts Hospital Association, the Massachusetts Pharmacists Association, the Massachusetts Senior Care Association, the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans, and the department of public health and the secretary of health and human services., and shall conduct no less than three public hearings in geographically diverse regions of the commonwealth.
The results of said study, together with any recommendations for legislative or regulatory changes, shall be filed with the clerks of the House and Senate and the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing, not later than March 1, 2027."
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-587
EHS 587
Emergency Housing Residency Requirements
Mrs. Dooner moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section __ the following section:—
“SECTION __. Section 30 of Chapter 23B of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2022 Official Edition, is hereby amended by inserting after the first paragraph the following:—
(a) Notwithstanding any general or special law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, eligibility for the emergency housing assistance program shall be limited to (1) United States citizens and (2) lawfully present immigrants who have maintained continuous legal residency in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for at least 12 consecutive months immediately prior to the date of application.
(b) Acceptable proof of legal residency must consist of the following two forms of documentation, both issued at least 12 months before the application date:
(i) Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residency: A valid U.S. Passport with a Massachusetts address; a certified U.S. Birth Certificate with proof of Massachusetts residency; a valid Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship; or a valid Green Card issued at least one year prior.
(ii) Proof of Continuous Residency in Massachusetts: A filed state income tax return for the most recent tax year; a valid Massachusetts REAL ID issued at least one year prior; or other official documentation, such as a lease, mortgage, utility bill, or pay stub showing one-year continuous residency.
(d) All submitted documentation shall be subject to verification by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities in coordination with the Department of Revenue and the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Fraudulent submissions shall result in permanent disqualification from the program.
(f) The Executive Office shall promulgate regulations to enforce this residency requirement, including cross-agency verification and fraud detection protocols.”
Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-591
EHS 591
SNAP Foods
Mr. Fattman moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section X the following section:-
“SECTION X. Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, the department of transitional assistance shall submit a request to USDA-FNS under Section 17(b) to exclude SNAP benefit use for candy and soft drinks. The department shall develop an implementation plan to determine ineligible products."