Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H1021

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  

Caption

Concerning the safety of autistic and alzheimer individuals

Impact

One notable impact of H1021 is its potential to alter existing state laws concerning legislative transparency. By enforcing stricter requirements for reporting and disclosure, the bill would necessitate changes to how lawmakers document their business transactions and lobbyist interactions. This could lead to a significant cultural shift within the state legislature, promoting a new standard of openness that could influence other states to implement similar measures. As legislators adapt to these changes, it may also affect the dynamics of political fundraising and campaign financing.

Summary

H1021, known as the Legislative Accountability Act, introduces several key provisions designed to enhance the transparency and accountability of state governance. The bill aims to make legislative processes more accessible to the public, requiring detailed disclosures from lawmakers regarding their financial interests and interactions with lobbyists. By increasing scrutiny on how decisions are made, this bill seeks to foster greater trust between constituents and their elected representatives, thereby improving civic engagement.

Contention

Despite its aims for reform, H1021 has sparked considerable debate regarding the balance between transparency and privacy. Critics argue that increased reporting requirements may impose an undue burden on legislators, potentially deterring individuals from public service. Additionally, concerns have surfaced about the effectiveness of such measures in genuinely reducing corruption, with opponents suggesting that the focus should be more on systemic changes rather than stricter reporting protocols. Proponents, however, assert that transparency is a foundational aspect of democratic governance that cannot be compromised.

Companion Bills

MA H980

Similar To Relative to the safety of autistic and alzheimer individuals

MA H4634

Replaced by Study Order

Previously Filed As

MA H1171

Concerning the safety of autistic and alzheimer individuals

MA H980

Relative to the safety of autistic and alzheimer individuals

MA S1445

Relative to the safety of Autistic and Alzheimer's individuals

MA S1600

Relative to the safety of Autistic and Alzheimer's individuals

MA HJR0039

SUPPORT-AUTISTIC INDIVIDUALS

MA SB570

Establishing training for law-enforcement in handling individuals with Alzheimer's and dementias

MA H2805

To provide an income tax exemption for certain individuals caring for their elderly relatives

MA H1149

Relative to insurance coverage for individuals with autism

MA H3320

Related to the enhancement of public safety to children in the vicinity of an attractive nuisance, a motor vehicle with the purpose of selling frozen desserts

MA H196

Relative to public accommodations for individuals with verbal communication impairments

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.