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SD 1130

An Act relative to preventing discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of health care

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Brady and 8 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill prohibits disability-based discrimination in healthcare provision, establishing legal protections and enforcement mechanisms for equitable medical treatment access.

House concurred
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Bill Summary · SD 1130

Legislative bill overview

SD 1130 establishes legal protections against discrimination based on disability status in healthcare delivery and services throughout Massachusetts. The bill aims to ensure that people with disabilities receive equitable access to medical treatment and care without facing discriminatory practices by healthcare providers, facilities, or insurers.

Why is this important

People with disabilities report experiencing healthcare discrimination including denial of services, exclusionary policies, and lower quality of care based on disability status rather than medical necessity. This legislation addresses a documented gap in protections by clarifying that disability-based discrimination in healthcare violates state law and establishing enforceable standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Ambiguity over which healthcare decisions constitute illegal discrimination versus legitimate clinical judgments based on medical evidence or resource allocation
  • Provider compliance costs: Healthcare facilities may claim significant administrative and operational expenses to implement new anti-discrimination protocols and staff training
  • Insurance implications: Unclear how the bill applies to insurance coverage denials, premium setting, and treatment authorization decisions that involve disability status considerations

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

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