Bill > S2711

This bill establishes a permanent commission on older LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning) adults and their caregivers in Massachusetts, composed of 21 members representing various state agencies, advocacy organizations, and appointed representatives. The commission will include legislative leaders, state officials, and community leaders, with five additional members appointed by the governor, including an elder law attorney, an LGBTQ policy expert, and three older LGBTQ adults (with at least one being transgender). The commission's primary responsibilities include investigating and analyzing the comprehensive needs of older LGBTQ adults, including health, housing, financial, and long-term care challenges. Specifically, the commission will examine state policies affecting LGBTQ seniors, develop strategies to increase provider awareness and competence, assess funding and programming needs, explore best practices for reducing isolation and preventing abuse, recommend home and community-based care alternatives to institutional settings, develop potential statewide training curricula for service providers, and create outreach protocols to help older LGBTQ adults feel more comfortable accessing mainstream services. The bill aims to improve the quality of life and support for LGBTQ seniors by creating a dedicated, comprehensive study and recommendation body.

Budget and Finance

Rules (Senate)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2711