Bill > S165

This bill updates the definition of "employer" in Nicky's Law (Chapter 19C of the Massachusetts General Laws) to expand protections for individuals with disabilities. Specifically, the bill broadens the scope of employers covered under the law to include entities that provide services to people with intellectual or developmental disabilities through four different pathways: (1) contracts or agreements with the department, (2) department-administered funding, (3) licenses issued under specific chapters of Massachusetts law, and (4) contracts with MassHealth to provide day habilitation services (which are specialized programs that help individuals with disabilities develop skills for daily living and community participation). By adding MassHealth day habilitation service providers to the definition, the bill aims to ensure consistent standards of care and protection for vulnerable individuals across different types of service providers, potentially enhancing safety and oversight in these important support programs.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S165