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Bill

S 126

Law Enforcement Personal Privacy Protection and Judicial Personal Privacy Protection

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Johnson

Bill S 126 mandates licensing for administering graduated electronic decelerators in Massachusetts, ensuring trained professionals protect individuals with disabilities.

Act No. 4
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 126

Summary of Bill S 126: An Act Requiring Licensure for Use of Graduated Electronic Decelerators

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 126 aims to establish a regulatory framework for the use of graduated electronic decelerators (GEDs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The primary intent is to ensure that individuals administering these devices, which apply electrical stimuli to alter behavior in persons with disabilities, are properly trained and licensed. This legislation seeks to enhance the safety and ethical use of GEDs, while also providing guidelines for their administration.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following significant changes to Chapter 111 of the General Laws:

  1. Definition:

    • A graduated electronic decelerator is defined as a device that delivers a noxious electrical stimulus or electric shock to the skin of a person with a disability to modify behavior.

  2. Licensing Requirements:

    • The Massachusetts Department of Health will develop rules and regulations 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, including de-escalation strategies and non-aversive measures
      • Safe administration practices to minimize pain and injury
      • Health and safety risks associated with GED use
      • Identification of signs of abuse and trauma
      • Supervision and approval requirements for GED use
      • Reporting procedures for unauthorized use or misuse
      • An examination to assess the applicant's professional skills and judgment

  3. Prohibitions:

    • 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:

    • Entities operating in Massachusetts must ensure that only licensed individuals administer GEDs and must not allow any misuse of these devices.

  5. Penalties:

    • Violations of the licensing requirements may result in fines of up to $500.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals with Disabilities: The bill directly impacts individuals with disabilities who may be subjected to GEDs, ensuring their protection through regulated use.
  • Professionals: Individuals who administer GEDs, including therapists and caregivers, will need to undergo training and obtain a license.
  • Organizations: Facilities and organizations that utilize GEDs will be required to comply with the new regulations and ensure that their staff are properly licensed.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Committee Referral: The bill has been referred to the committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
  • Hearing Scheduled: A public hearing is set for November 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Room A-2.

Conclusion

Bill S 126 represents a significant step towards regulating the use of graduated electronic decelerators in Massachusetts. By establishing a licensing system, the bill aims to protect individuals with disabilities from potential harm and ensure that those administering these devices are adequately trained and accountable.

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

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