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S 1093

An Act relative to health care proxy reform

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ryan Fattman and 1 co-sponsor

S 1093 reforms Massachusetts health care proxy law governing medical decision-making authority for incapacitated patients, with specifics pending committee review.

Hearing scheduled for 04/22/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2
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Bill Summary · S 1093

Legislative bill overview

S 1093 proposes reforms to Massachusetts' health care proxy law, which allows individuals to designate someone to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated. The bill has been referred to the Judiciary Committee and is currently scheduled for a hearing, though the specific reforms are not detailed in the available action history.

Why is this important

Health care proxies are critical legal documents affecting end-of-life care, treatment decisions, and medical autonomy for vulnerable individuals. Reforms could impact how families navigate medical crises, the clarity of proxy authority, and protections for both patients and designated decision-makers—potentially affecting thousands of Massachusetts residents and their families annually.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of proxy authority: Any expansion or restriction of what decisions a health care proxy can make (organ donation, experimental treatments, withholding life-sustaining care) may face disagreement between patient advocates, medical professionals, and family rights groups
  • Proxy selection and validation requirements: Stricter procedures for designating proxies could burden families but might prevent coercion; relaxed requirements could increase disputes
  • Conflict resolution mechanisms: New procedures for handling disagreements between proxies and medical providers or family members could shift power dynamics and raise concerns about patient protection versus family autonomy

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

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