Rep. Donaghue Files Bills To Combat Substance Use Disorder, Healthcare, and To Support Education

In full transparency, the following is a press release from State Rep. Kate Donaghue’s office. Rep. Donaghue is a new state representative, who represents a part of a precinct in Framingham.

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FRAMINGHAM – State Representative Kate Donaghue announcedshe has kicked off her first legislative session by filing and co-sponsoring a number of bills aimed at improving the quality of life for Westborough, Northborough, Southborough, and Framingham residents.

“I’m using my voice to fight for our communities on healthcare, combat substance use disorder, and support public education,” she stated. Rep. Donaghue filed bills in partnership with legislators from across the Commonwealth, both in the House of Representatives and the State Senate.

“Working with Senators Jamie Eldridge, Mike Moore and Becca Rausch who have filed bills in the Senate, I have filed corresponding bills in the House in a number of areas,” reported Representative Donaghue. 

“An Act relative to the effective enforcement of municipal ordinances and by-laws (HD.954)”, if passed, will help municipalities enforce ordinances and by-laws, which will be especially helpful for Conservation Commissions. Rep. Donaghue is working with Senator Jamie Eldridge on this effort. 

“An Act relative to the Massachusetts State College Building Authority (HD.3447)”, filed in conjunction with Senator Mike Moore, will allow state universities to access supplemental funds from the state’s college building authority from prior funding authorizations. 

Working with Senator Becca Rausch, Rep. Donaghue has filed “An Act relative to councils on aging (HD.3449)” which will allow directors of advisory councils on aging to make staffing decisions in an effort to better serve the needs of municipalities in which they provide services.

“A very personal and important issue to me is fighting substance use disorder. I lost my son, my only child, to an overdose almost five years ago. I was advocating for legislation in this area while my son was alive, and have continued since he passed,” noted Rep. Donaghue. Working with Senator John Keenan and Representatives Kay Khan, Smitty Pignatelli, Adam Scanlon and Andy Vargas, a number of bills have been filed. 

“I am proud to work with colleagues who have been long time champions in this area. Filed legislation includes increased access to Narcan as well as addressing insurance coverage of treatment for substance use disorder. We need to treat the opioid epidemic like the public health crisis it is, and not a moral failing,” commented Rep. Donaghue.

“In addition to bills that I have filled, I have co-sponsored legislation in areas ranging from transportation and health care to safer well water and pet safety,” according to Rep. Donaghue.

“As we begin this legislative session, I feel truly honored to be able to serve the people of the district. Once again, I want to thank all of you for this opportunity to make a difference,” said Rep. Donaghue.