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Bill

S 250

An Act relative to consumer health data

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Manny Cruz and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill creating consumer health data privacy protections, requiring entity consent for data use and establishing enforcement mechanisms for violations.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 250

Legislative bill overview

S 250 establishes comprehensive protections for consumer health data in Massachusetts, governing how health information is collected, used, stored, and shared by covered entities. The bill creates new privacy standards and consumer rights while establishing enforcement mechanisms for violations of these protections.

Why is this important

Health data breaches and misuse can result in identity theft, discrimination, and privacy violations that disproportionately harm vulnerable populations. This legislation addresses gaps in federal health privacy law (HIPAA) by extending protections to entities not currently regulated and giving Massachusetts residents explicit control over their sensitive health information.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Healthcare providers, insurers, and tech companies may face significant expenses implementing new data security measures, breach notification procedures, and consent management systems
  • Scope and coverage definition: Disagreement over which entities qualify as "covered" (health apps, wellness companies, genetic testing services, etc.) and how broadly "health data" is defined
  • Consent mechanisms vs. operational efficiency: Tension between requiring explicit opt-in consent for all data uses versus allowing streamlined health information sharing necessary for coordinated care
  • Enforcement and penalties: Questions about regulatory authority, investigation resources, and whether penalties are proportionate to violations

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

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