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HD 2173

An Act establishing the human service transportation (HST) consumer advisory board

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mindy Domb

Massachusetts bill creates consumer advisory board to give human service transportation users formal input on policy and service decisions affecting vulnerable populations.

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Bill Summary · HD 2173

Legislative bill overview

HD 2173 establishes a consumer advisory board focused on human service transportation (HST) in Massachusetts. The board would provide input on policies, services, and programs related to transportation for vulnerable populations who rely on human services. This creates a formal mechanism for service users to influence transportation decision-making.

Why is this important

Human service transportation serves elderly, disabled, low-income, and other vulnerable populations who depend on these systems for medical appointments, employment, and daily living activities. A consumer advisory board ensures that people actually using these services have direct voice in how they're designed and operated, potentially improving accessibility and responsiveness. Currently, these populations often have limited input in transportation policy decisions that directly affect their lives.

Potential points of contention

  • Board composition and power: Unclear whether the board would have advisory-only status or actual decision-making authority, and how many consumer representatives versus agency officials would participate
  • Funding and implementation costs: Establishing and maintaining a board requires budget allocation; unclear if new funding is provided or diverted from existing HST services
  • Scope definition: "Human service transportation" could encompass multiple agencies and programs; ambiguity about which services fall under the board's purview and coordination across departments

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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