Bill > H2385

This bill establishes a special 15-member commission to develop strategies for mitigating the risks of avian influenza (H5N1) in Massachusetts. The commission will include representatives from various state agencies, veterinary associations, agricultural industries, academic experts, local health officials, and a vulnerable populations advocate. The commission's key responsibilities include studying H5N1 prevalence and risk factors, developing surveillance programs to track outbreaks in wildlife, poultry, dairy cattle, and humans, recommending biosecurity measures, proposing wildlife management guidelines, and creating emergency response plans. Specifically, the commission will research critical areas such as expanding antiviral drug stockpiles, developing therapeutic strategies, preparing for clinical trials, creating rapid virus detection methods, and exploring compensation for affected farm workers. The commission is required to submit a comprehensive report to various state officials by December 31, 2026, and will be funded through state appropriations and potential public and private sources. The bill is deemed an emergency measure to preserve public health, and the commission must convene within 60 days of the bill's effective date. The broad, multidisciplinary approach aims to comprehensively address potential H5N1 risks across various sectors in Massachusetts.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2385