Massachusetts Senate
Coverage of Massachusetts Senate in the Nexus archive.
- Massachusetts Senate preserves energy-efficiency funding in new bill
The Massachusetts Senate has preserved energy-efficiency funding in new energy legislation, which includes provisions on plug-in solar and renewable energy procurement, with sponsors projecting $14 billion in consumer savings over the next 10 years.
- Senate ready to force more money toward primary care — and away from specialists
Massachusetts senators plan to pass a bill increasing primary care funding by requiring health care entities to allocate 15% of spending to primary care by 2028, shifting resources from specialists and pharmaceuticals. The proposal faces expected pushback from hospital systems and specialty care sectors, as primary care currently receives only 6.6% of insurer spending.
- Shortsleeve would tie legislative funding to audit compliance
Republican Brian Shortsleeve threatened to veto $110 million in legislative funding unless lawmakers comply with an audit by Auditor Diana DiZoglio. The House passed a bill limiting the scope of the audit to administrative functions and blocking courts from resolving disputes. DiZoglio accused the Legislature of violating separation of powers by restricting the audit.
- House approves later last call bill that would run through July
The Massachusetts House approved a bill allowing bars to extend last call to 3 a.m. through July 31 with local approval. The Senate is expected to follow suit, and the bill includes provisions for 'social consumption districts' where alcohol can be consumed in public spaces. The legislation aims to support local businesses during summer events, including the FIFA World Cup.