How I Voted: Safety, Health, and Support

Strengthening Public Safety, Health Access, and Support for Massachusetts Residents

Bills: H.5444, H.5443, H.5441, S.2903 , S.2565

Date of Vote: May 20, 2026

What Problem Were These Bills Trying to Solve?

Government has a responsibility to protect residents, support public health, and ensure that laws keep pace with changing technology and the evolving needs of Massachusetts communities.

These bills address several important issues, including the responsible use of emerging technologies, access to lifesaving medical treatment, early detection of serious health conditions in newborns, recognition of families who have lost a law enforcement officer in the line of duty, and improving communication between law enforcement and individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Together, these measures represent a commitment to public safety, accessibility, and ensuring that Massachusetts laws continue to protect and support residents across the Commonwealth.

What Do the Bills Do?

H.5444 – An Act relative to civil rights and technology

• Prohibits the manufacture, sale, transfer, possession, or operation of a robotic device equipped or mounted with a weapon.

• Prohibits using a robotic device to threaten to commit a crime, criminally harass another person, or physically restrain or attempt to physically restrain another person.

• Provides exemptions for law enforcement agencies using these technologies for authorized purposes.

H.5443 – An Act relative to increasing access to epinephrin

• Allows authorized entities to acquire and maintain a supply of epinephrine auto-injectors from approved wholesalers.

• Allows trained employees or agents of authorized entities to administer epinephrine when they reasonably believe an individual is experiencing anaphylaxis.

• Expands access to lifesaving medication during emergency situations where immediate treatment is critical.

H.5441 – An Act relative to newborn screenings for congenital cytomegalovirus

• Requires the Department of Public Health to develop regulations requiring congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) screening in hospitals and birthing facilities.

• Establishes a pilot program to improve screening, reporting, and medical follow-up processes.

• Requires public education efforts regarding cCMV for healthcare providers and expectant and new parents.

S.2903 – An Act honoring Blue Star Families

• Requires the Registry of Motor Vehicles to provide distinctive license plates or motorcycle emblems to eligible family members of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.

• Provides a lasting recognition of the sacrifice made by families of fallen law enforcement officers.

S.2565 – An Act facilitating better interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder

• Requires the Registry of Motor Vehicles to make blue envelopes available upon request to individuals with autism spectrum disorder or their parents or guardians.

• Creates a tool designed to improve communication between law enforcement officers and individuals with autism during traffic stops.

• Provides guidance to support safer and more effective interactions between residents and law enforcement.

How I Voted

I voted YES.

Why I Voted This Way

Public service requires finding practical solutions that improve safety, protect residents, and ensure that people have access to the resources they need.

These bills address a range of issues, but they share a common purpose: making Massachusetts a safer, healthier, and more responsive Commonwealth.

As a former educator and school leader, I understand the importance of early identification, intervention, and providing families with the tools they need to support children. Expanding newborn screening for congenital CMV and improving access to lifesaving medications like epinephrine are examples of proactive steps that can make a meaningful difference.

As a military officer and attorney, I understand the importance of public safety, clear standards, and ensuring that our laws keep pace with emerging challenges. Establishing appropriate safeguards for weaponized robotic technology and improving communication between law enforcement and individuals with autism spectrum disorder helps protect both residents and first responders.

I also believe that honoring those who make the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities is an important responsibility. Supporting Blue Star Families recognizes the courage and sacrifice of families who have lost a loved one serving the public.

I supported these bills because they represent thoughtful, practical steps to improve public safety, expand access to critical resources, and strengthen support for individuals and families throughout the Commonwealth.