Bill > H142

This bill makes several key changes: 1. It allows public bodies to permit remote participation by members for any meeting, with requirements to ensure public access and transparency. 2. It modifies the composition of the Architectural Access Board to include more advocates for persons with disabilities. 3. It expands the Board's authority to establish accessibility standards for a wider range of public and private buildings and facilities, including areas not generally open to the public. 4. It replaces outdated terminology referring to "physically handicapped persons" with "persons with disabilities" throughout the relevant laws. 5. It establishes a Livable Home Modification Grant program to provide financial assistance to eligible individuals with disabilities for home accessibility retrofits. 6. It requires the Department of Housing and Community Development to promulgate regulations to implement and administer the Livable Home Modification Grant program. 7. It amends the Medicaid estate recovery laws to provide additional protections and waivers in certain circumstances. The bill aims to promote community living and improve accessibility and support services for older adults and persons with disabilities in Massachusetts.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H142