Bill > H2442

This bill introduces new requirements for hospitals and ambulatory surgical facilities in Massachusetts to protect patients and healthcare workers from surgical smoke, which is a hazardous byproduct created when surgical tools like lasers or electrosurgical devices interact with human tissue. Specifically, the bill mandates that all licensed healthcare facilities must adopt policies requiring the use of smoke evacuation systems during any procedure that generates surgical smoke, with these systems designed to effectively capture and neutralize the smoke before it can make contact with room occupants' eyes or respiratory tracts. The legislation defines surgical smoke broadly, including surgical plume, bio-aerosols, and other potentially lung-damaging contaminants. Facilities that fail to comply with these requirements will be subject to a fine of at least $500 for each violation. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and requires all hospitals and surgical centers to report their compliance policies to the Department of Public Health by April 1, 2026, ensuring a structured implementation of these important patient and worker safety measures.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2442