Welcome Back to The Beat from Beacon Hill

Your go-to update on our advocacy work across Massachusetts.

As the Massachusetts Legislature enters the final months of its current session, activity at the State House has slowed, but several important health policy priorities continue to move forward. Here’s a look at where things stand and what we’re watching as the year comes to a close.

❤️ Understanding Where We Are in the Legislative Session

The Massachusetts Legislature concluded formal sessions on July 31 and is now meeting in informal sessions through the end of the current legislative cycle. During this period, legislation can still advance when there is no objection from a member, and conference committees continue their work on major legislation.

The current legislative session concludes on January 5, 2027, with a new two-year legislative session beginning January 6, 2027. Until then, we remain focused on advancing key priorities while also working with lawmakers and stakeholders to prepare for the next legislative cycle.

❤️ Research Investments and AED Access Move Forward

One of the most significant pieces of legislation still moving this year is the state’s Economic Development Bill, which is currently being negotiated by a conference committee after both the House and Senate passed their own versions.

The legislation includes investments from Governor Healey’s DRIVE Act that would strengthen Massachusetts’ research and innovation ecosystem, an area the American Heart Association has advocated for throughout the legislative process. These investments would help support research institutions across Massachusetts at a time when many are facing uncertainty around federal funding.

The bill also includes language requiring AEDs to be available and clearly marked at community athletic fields and recreational facilities during sporting events. Because both chambers have approved similar proposals, we remain optimistic as negotiations continue.

Conference committee members are now working to resolve differences between the two versions of the bill before sending a final compromise package to the Governor for consideration.

❤️ Telecommunicator CPR Legislation Remains Active

Legislation to strengthen Telecommunicator CPR (T-CPR) implementation in Massachusetts remains eligible for consideration during informal sessions.

Telecommunicator CPR occurs when a 9-1-1 telecommunicator provides CPR instructions to a caller during a cardiac arrest emergency, helping bystanders begin lifesaving care before first responders arrive.

Our legislation would establish a more consistent statewide approach to Telecommunicator CPR by strengthening implementation, training, and reporting. These improvements can help ensure more people experiencing cardiac arrest receive timely assistance when every second counts.

We continue to work with legislative leaders and stakeholders to advance this priority before the current legislative cycle concludes.

❤️ Students Learn CPR and Advocacy Through CrimsonEMS Program

More than 60 high school students recently visited our office through the CrimsonEMS CPR Ambassador Program to receive CPR training and learn about advocacy efforts to expand CPR education in schools.

Students also learned about civic engagement and the importance of making their voices heard with lawmakers.❤️ Thank You for Your Continued Advocacy

While the legislative calendar has entered a quieter phase, important work continues both inside and outside the State House. From advancing Telecommunicator CPR legislation and expanding access to AEDs to supporting research investments and CPR education, your support helps make this progress possible.

As we continue pushing for progress on priority legislation in the final months of the current session, we are also beginning to lay the groundwork for the next legislative cycle. The conversations we’re having today with lawmakers and advocates will help shape the priorities we pursue when the new legislative session begins in January 2027.

Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to improving health and saving lives. We’ll be back soon with more updates from Beacon Hill.