Bill > S2124

This bill amends Chapter 6A of the General Laws by adding a new section that establishes a behavioral science insights policy directive for administrative, independent, and judicial agencies. The directive encourages agencies to identify policies and programs where behavioral science insights could improve public welfare and program effectiveness, and to develop strategies for applying these insights. Agencies are specifically instructed to help individuals and communities access public programs more easily by streamlining processes, removing administrative barriers, and simplifying forms. The bill also calls for agencies to improve information presentation by considering how content, format, timing, and medium affect comprehension, and to carefully design choice architectures that promote public welfare. Agencies are expected to review their policies to make it easier for individuals to take beneficial actions, such as saving for retirement or completing education programs, by considering how incentives and presentation can motivate desired behaviors. The directive requires agencies to engage outside researchers with expertise in behavioral science to provide advice and conduct rigorous evaluations, including randomized control trials. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that these recommendations should be implemented thoughtfully and appropriately, without impacting existing legal authorities, with the ultimate goal of enhancing administrative efficiency and public service delivery.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2124