H4542
An Act relative to making the charter of the city of Chicopee gender neutral
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Bill overview
This bill amends the charter of the city of Chicopee to remove gendered language and terminology. Specifically, it aims to update the city’s governing documents to use neutral terms, ensuring inclusivity and avoiding outdated references to male-specific roles or titles. The bill was approved by the legislature and signed into law by the Governor, becoming Chapter 56 of the Acts of 2026.
Key provisions
- Replaces gendered terms in the city charter with neutral alternatives.
- Updates language related to city officials and positions.
- Ensures consistency in the charter’s language.
- Reflects current best practices for gender-inclusive governance.
Who is affected
- The city of Chicopee
- Residents of Chicopee
- City officials and employees of Chicopee
Notable changes
- Eliminates gendered references within the city charter.
- Promotes inclusivity and equal opportunity in city governance.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Thomas P. Walsh
Cosponsors
Jacob R. Oliveira
Shirley B. Arriaga
Thomas P. Walsh
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Bill H.4542 194th (Current)
An Act relative to making the charter of the city of Chicopee gender neutral
Substituted, on motion of Mr. Walsh of Peabody, for a bill with the same title (House, No. 2244) [Local Approval Received]. September 18, 2025.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Sponsor: Thomas P. Walsh
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Bill History Cosponsors
Bill History
Displaying 8 actions for Bill H.4542
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 9/18/2025 | House | Substituted for H2244 |
| 9/18/2025 | House | Passed to be engrossed |
| 9/22/2025 | Senate | Read, rules suspended, read second and ordered to a third reading |
| 3/30/2026 | Senate | Taken out of the Orders of the Day |
| 3/30/2026 | Senate | Read third (title changed) and passed to be engrossed |
| 4/2/2026 | House | Enacted |
| 4/2/2026 | Senate | Enacted and laid before the Governor |
| 4/10/2026 | Executive | Signed by the Governor, Chapter 56 of the Acts of 2026 |
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