LABOR

The following includes a list of the labor bills my office has filed in 2025-2026. In addition to these bills, I have cosponsored many others. To read the full text of the bill, click on the bill name.

An Act relative to updating overtime salary thresholds and codify definitions to protect the middle class

The act updates the salary thresholds for overtime exemptions, increasing the salary requirements for bona fide executive, administrative, and professional employees. It defines key terms, including "primary duty," "salary basis," and "exempt employee," to clarify eligibility for overtime pay. The overtime threshold will rise progressively, starting at $844 per week and increasing to $1,403.84 by 2027. It mandates annual adjustments to the threshold based on wage growth to ensure fair compensation for middle-class workers. Filed with Rep. Donahue.

An Act relative to the protection of small businesses and workers

The act introduces definitions for "monopoly power," "monopsony," and "monopsony power" to address market control. It makes any agreement that creates or maintains a monopoly or monopsony unlawful, including actions that restrain competition. The act also prohibits abusing dominant positions in markets, with penalties for those found violating it. Additionally, it allows for recovery of legal fees for successful actions and establishes penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment.

An Act relative to unemployment compensation and labor disputes

This bill amends unemployment benefit eligibility for workers affected by labor disputes. It specifies that workers are ineligible for benefits if their unemployment results from a labor dispute, but exceptions apply if the employer hires a permanent replacement or violates an agreement. Employees not involved in the dispute or who obtain new employment may still be eligible. Additionally, workers will not be denied benefits during an employer lockout unless the employer proves substantial property damage or threats caused by union members.

An Act relative to wrongful discharge from employment

This bill defines "constructive discharge" and expands the concept of wrongful discharge from employment. It outlines the conditions under which a discharge is considered wrongful, such as retaliation or lack of good cause after a probationary period. Employees wrongfully discharged may seek lost wages and fringe benefits for up to four years, with specific exceptions. The bill also clarifies that certain discharges are not covered, including those under collective bargaining agreements or other statutes.

An Act relative to supporting sustainability in the cannabis industry

This bill amends Section 4 of Chapter 94G to establish a sustainability working group focused on promoting sustainable practices in the cannabis industry. The group will explore reusing returned packaging, standardizing marijuana waste disposal, and creating a program for reusing RFID tags. This effort aims to reduce natural material usage and increase sustainability.

An Act relative to worker compensation protections for certified medical cannabis patients and their caregivers

This bill ensures that certified medical cannabis patients and their caregivers are protected under worker compensation laws. It prohibits employers from discriminating against employees for using medical cannabis in compliance with state laws. The bill allows patients and caregivers to use medical cannabis without jeopardizing their worker compensation benefits. Additionally, it clarifies that medical cannabis use does not affect an employee’s eligibility for worker compensation in cases of injury or illness.

An Act to eliminate excessive regulation of the cannabis industry

This bill amends existing laws to ensure that marijuana establishments and Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers are not subject to security regulations that are more restrictive or expensive than those applicable to pharmacies. It sets the standard that marijuana-related security requirements should align with pharmacy regulations under 247 CMR sec. 6.02(6). The Cannabis Control Commission is required to review and amend its regulations to comply with this standard within one year of the bill’s enactment. This ensures consistency between marijuana and pharmacy security regulations.

An Act relative to vacation time for employees of the Commonwealth who are veterans

This bill requires the retirement board to notify the relevant human resources department when a Commonwealth employee purchases creditable service time. The notification will include the amount of purchased service time. The employee will then receive credit for this time in determining their vacation accrual rate. The change is aimed at ensuring proper credit for vacation time earned. Filed with Rep. Blais.