H261
An Act relative to supported decision-making agreements for certain adults
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes a framework for supported decision-making agreements in Massachusetts. These agreements allow individuals, often with disabilities, to appoint trusted supporters who can help them make decisions without granting them legal authority. The goal is to empower individuals to maintain control over their lives while receiving assistance with daily tasks and choices. This legislation aims to provide a more flexible and person-centered approach to decision-making support.
Key provisions
- Creates a legal process for establishing supported decision-making agreements.
- Defines the roles and responsibilities of the individual and their supporter.
- Specifies the types of decisions that can be supported.
- Establishes guidelines for the duration and termination of agreements.
- Requires training and support for supporters.
- Protects the individual’s right to self-determination.
- Allows individuals to revoke their agreement at any time.
Who is affected
- Adults with disabilities
- Individuals seeking decision-making support
- Family members and friends who may serve as supporters
- Disability service providers
- The disability community
Notable changes
- This bill formalizes a process that previously relied on informal arrangements.
- It provides legal protections and clarity for both individuals and their supporters.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Jay D. Livingstone
Cosponsors
Bruce E. Tarr
Christopher Hendricks
Colleen M. Garry
Arguments in favor
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Bill H.261 194th (Current)
An Act relative to supported decision-making agreements for certain adults
By Representatives Livingstone of Boston and Finn of West Springfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 261) of Jay D. Livingstone, Michael J. Finn and others relative to supported decision-making agreements for certain adults with disabilities. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenters: Jay D. Livingstone , Michael J. Finn
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill H.261
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 8/27/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/09/2025 from 1:00 PM-5:00 PM in B-2 |
| 12/29/2025 | House | Accompanied a new draft, see H4852 |
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