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H 240

EDUCATION – Adds to existing law to establish provisions for the protection of certain speech on college campuses.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

Bill H 240 mandates licensure for administering graduated electronic decelerators, ensuring only trained professionals use these devices to protect individuals with disabilities.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 28, 2025 Session Law Chapter 194 Effective: 07/01/2025
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Bill Summary · H 240

Summary of Bill H 240: An Act Requiring Licensure for Use of Graduated Electronic Decelerators

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 240 aims to regulate the use of graduated electronic decelerators (GEDs), devices that apply electrical stimuli to alter the behavior of individuals with disabilities. The legislation seeks to ensure that only trained and licensed individuals can administer these devices, thereby enhancing the safety and well-being of affected individuals.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to the existing regulations regarding GEDs:

  1. Definition of Graduated Electronic Decelerator:

    • The bill defines a GED as a device that delivers a noxious electrical stimulus to the skin of a person with a disability for behavior modification.

  2. Licensure Requirements:

    • The Massachusetts Department of Public Health will establish rules for the training, certification, and licensing of individuals who administer GEDs.
    • Training programs must cover:
      • Appropriate and necessary use of GEDs
      • Prohibited uses and alternatives (e.g., de-escalation strategies, positive reinforcement)
      • Safe administration practices
      • Health and safety risks
      • Signs of abuse and trauma
      • Approval and supervision requirements
      • Reporting procedures for unauthorized use
      • An examination to assess the applicant's qualifications

  3. Prohibition of Unauthorized Use:

    • No individual may administer or supervise the use of a GED without a valid license.
    • Licensed individuals are prohibited from misusing GEDs or supervising misuse.

  4. Entity Responsibilities:

    • Organizations operating in Massachusetts cannot allow unlicensed individuals to administer GEDs.
    • Licensed individuals must not misuse GEDs.

  5. Penalties:

    • Violations of the licensure requirements may result in a fine of up to $500.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals with Disabilities: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are individuals with disabilities who may be subjected to GEDs. The bill aims to protect their rights and well-being.
  • Healthcare and Support Providers: Professionals who work with individuals with disabilities will need to comply with new training and licensing requirements.
  • Organizations: Facilities that utilize GEDs will be responsible for ensuring that only licensed individuals administer these devices.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Hearing Scheduled: November 18, 2025, from 01:00 PM to 05:00 PM in Room A-2
  • Legislative Actions:
    • Referred to the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities on the same day it was introduced.
    • The Senate has concurred with the bill.

Conclusion

Bill H 240 represents a significant step towards regulating the use of graduated electronic decelerators in Massachusetts. By establishing licensure requirements and training protocols, the bill aims to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure that behavioral interventions are conducted safely and ethically.

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

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