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Bill

H 1137

An Act to strengthen the control of contagious and infectious diseases in the Commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mindy Domb and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill to expand infectious disease control authority; evolved through committee review with new draft introduced January 2026; likely involves funding and regulatory mechanisms.

Accompanied a new draft, see H4935
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Bill Summary · H 1137

Legislative bill overview

H 1137 proposes to strengthen Massachusetts' regulatory framework for controlling contagious and infectious diseases. The bill has evolved significantly, with a new draft (H4935) introduced in January 2026, suggesting substantial revisions from the original proposal. The legislation underwent a public hearing in October 2025 and was referred to the Financial Services Committee, indicating fiscal implications.

Why is this important

Disease control authority affects public health response capacity, emergency preparedness, and how quickly officials can implement containment measures during outbreaks. The bill's referral to Financial Services suggests it may have budget implications or create new funding mechanisms for disease surveillance and response infrastructure. This directly impacts Massachusetts' ability to manage future health crises.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of government authority: Strengthening disease control powers raises questions about the balance between public health intervention and individual privacy/medical autonomy
  • Financial burden: Referral to Financial Services indicates costs; debate likely over who bears expenses (state, municipalities, healthcare providers, or individuals)
  • Implementation clarity: Without access to the bill text or H4935 draft, the specific mechanisms for "strengthening control" remain unclear—could involve isolation orders, vaccination requirements, testing mandates, or reporting protocols that generate controversy

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

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