Massachusetts House of Representatives

Massachusetts House of
Representatives

General Information
Party control: |  Democrat
Session start:[1] |  January 6, 2021
Session end:[1] |  January 4, 2022
Term length: |  2 years
Term limits: |  None
Redistricting: | Legislature-dominant
Salary: |  $70,536/year
Members
Total: | 160
Democrats: | 129
Republicans: | 29
Other: | 1 (Independent)
Vacancies: | 1
Leadership
Speaker: |  Ronald Mariano (D)
Maj. Leader: |  Vacant
Min. Leader: |  Bradley Jones, Jr. (R)
Elections
Last election: | November 3, 2020
Next election: | November 8, 2022

The Massachusetts House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the Massachusetts General Court. Alongside the Massachusetts State Senate, it forms the legislative branch of the Massachusetts state government and works alongside the governor of Massachusetts to create laws and establish a state budget. Legislative authority and responsibilities of the Massachusetts House of Representatives include passing bills on public policy matters, setting levels for state spending, raising and lowering taxes, and voting to uphold or override gubernatorial vetoes.

The Massachusetts House of Representatives meets in the State House in Boston, Massachusetts.

Gov. Charlie Baker (R) signed the state's new legislative maps into law on November 4, 2021.[2] The state House passed the maps by a vote of 158-1 on October 21, 2021. The state Senate approved the legislative plans on October 27, 2021 by a vote of 36-3. The legislature began consideration of the state's redistricting plans on October 19, 2021.[3] These maps take effect for Massachusetts' 2022 legislative elections. Click here for more information about redistricting after the 2020 census.

* All 160 seats in the Massachusetts House of Representatives were up for election in 2020. The chamber's Democratic supermajority increased from 127-31 (with one third-party legislator and one vacancy) to 129-30 with one third-party legislator. Click to read more »

* Massachusetts has a divided government where neither party holds a trifecta. The Republican Party controls the office of governor, while the Democratic Party controls both chambers of the state legislature.

This page contains the following information on the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

* Which party controls the chamber
* The chamber's current membership
* Partisan control of the chamber over time
* Elections in the chamber and how vacancies are filled
* A district map
* How redistricting works in the state
* Legislation currently under consideration
* Legislative session dates
* Legislative procedures, such as veto overrides and the state budget process
* A list of committees

## Contents

* 1 Party control
* 1.1 Current partisan control
* 2 Members
* 2.1 Leadership
* 2.2 Current leadership and members
* 2.3 Salaries
* 2.4 Swearing in dates
* 2.5 Membership qualifications
* 3 Historical party control
* 3.1 Trifecta history
* 4 Elections
* 4.1 Elections by year
* 4.2 2022
* 4.3 2020
* 4.4 2018
* 4.5 2016
* 4.6 2014
* 4.7 2012
* 4.8 2010
* 4.9 2008
* 4.10 2006
* 4.11 2004
* 4.12 2002
* 4.13 2000
* 4.14 Vacancies
* 5 District map
* 6 Redistricting
* 6.1 2020
* 6.1.1 District map after 2020 redistricting
* 6.2 2010
* 7 Sessions
* 7.1 Legislation
* 7.2 Dates of legislative sessions in Massachusetts by year
* 7.3 2021
* 7.4 2020
* 7.4.1 Effect of coronavirus pandemic
* 7.5 2019
* 7.6 2018
* 7.7 2017
* 7.8 2016
* 7.8.1 Major issues in 2016
* 7.9 2015
* 7.9.1 Major issues in 2015
* 7.10 2014
* 7.10.1 Major issues in 2014
* 7.11 2013
* 7.11.1 Major issues in 2013
* 7.12 2012
* 7.12.1 Major issues in 2012
* 7.13 2011
* 7.14 2010
* 7.15 About legislative sessions in Massachusetts
* 8 Legislative roles and procedures
* 8.1 Veto overrides
* 8.2 Role in state budget
* 9 Committees
* 10 Constitutional amendments
* 11 See also
* 12 Footnotes

## Party control[edit]

### Current partisan control[edit]

The table below shows the partisan breakdown of the Massachusetts House of Representatives as of November 2021:

Party  |  As of November 2021

|

|  Democratic Party |  129
|  Republican Party |  29
|  Independent  |  1
|  Vacancies  |  1
Total |  160

## Members[edit]

### Leadership[edit]

The House elects its speaker, who then appoints majority floor leaders. The minority party elects its leaders in a party caucus.[4]

### Current leadership and members[edit]

* House speaker: Ronald Mariano (D)
* Majority leader: Vacant
* Minority leader: Bradley Jones, Jr. (R)

Office

| Name | Party | Date assumed office

|
|
|

Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Barnstable District | Timothy Whelan | Republican  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Berkshire District | John Barrett III | Democratic  | November 15, 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Bristol District | F. Jay Barrows | Republican  | 2007 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Essex District | James Kelcourse | Republican  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Franklin District | Natalie Blais | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Hampden District | Todd Smola | Republican  | January 5, 2005 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Hampshire District | Lindsay Sabadosa | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Middlesex District | Sheila Harrington | Republican  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Norfolk District | Bruce Ayers | Democratic  | 1999 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Plymouth District | Mathew Muratore | Republican  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Suffolk District | Adrian Madaro | Democratic  | April 8, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 1st Worcester District | Kimberly Ferguson | Republican  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Barnstable District | Kip Diggs | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Berkshire District | Paul Mark | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Bristol District | James Hawkins | Democratic  | April 10, 2018 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Essex District | Leonard Mirra | Republican  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Franklin District | Susannah Whipps | Independent | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Hampden District | Brian Michael Ashe | Democratic  | 2009 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Hampshire District | Daniel Carey | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Middlesex District | James Arciero | Democratic  | 2009 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Norfolk District | Tackey Chan | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Plymouth District | Susan Gifford | Republican  | 2003 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Suffolk District | Daniel Joseph Ryan | Democratic  | April 16, 2014 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 2nd Worcester District | Jonathan Zlotnik | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Barnstable District | David Vieira | Republican  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Berkshire District | Tricia Farley-Bouvier | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Bristol District | Carol Doherty | Democratic  | June 10, 2020 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Essex District | Andy Vargas | Democratic  | November 15, 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Hampden District | Nicholas Boldyga | Republican  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Hampshire District | Mindy Domb | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Middlesex District | Kate Hogan | Democratic  | 2009 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Norfolk District | Ronald Mariano | Democratic  | 1992 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Plymouth District | Joan Meschino | Democratic  | 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Suffolk District | Aaron Michlewitz | Democratic  | 2009 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 3rd Worcester District | Michael Kushmerek | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Barnstable District | Sarah Peake | Democratic  | 2007 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Berkshire District | William Pignatelli | Democratic  | 2003 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Bristol District | Steven Howitt | Republican  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Essex District | Vacant |  |  | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Hampden District | Kelly Pease | Republican  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Middlesex District | Danielle Gregoire | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Norfolk District | James Murphy | Democratic  | 2001 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Plymouth District | Patrick Joseph Kearney | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Suffolk District | David Biele | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 4th Worcester District | Natalie Higgins | Democratic  | 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 5th Barnstable District | Steven Xiarhos | Republican  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 5th Bristol District | Patricia Haddad | Democratic  | 2001 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 5th Essex District | Ann-Margaret Ferrante | Democratic  | 2009 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 5th Hampden District | Patricia Duffy | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 5th Middlesex District | David Linsky | Democratic  | 1999 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 5th Norfolk District | Mark Cusack | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 5th Plymouth District | David DeCoste | Republican  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 5th Suffolk District | Liz Miranda | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 5th Worcester District | Donald Berthiaume Jr. | Republican  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 6th Bristol District | Carole Fiola | Democratic  | September 25, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 6th Essex District | Jerry Parisella | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 6th Hampden District | Michael Finn | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 6th Middlesex District | Maria Robinson | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 6th Norfolk District | William Galvin | Democratic  | 1991 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 6th Plymouth District | Josh Cutler | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 6th Suffolk District | Russell Holmes | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 6th Worcester District | Peter Durant | Republican  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 7th Bristol District | Alan Silvia | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 7th Essex District | Paul Tucker | Democratic  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 7th Hampden District | Jacob Oliveira | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 7th Middlesex District | Jack Patrick Lewis | Democratic  | 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 7th Norfolk District | William Driscoll Jr. | Democratic  | 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 7th Plymouth District | Alyson Sullivan | Republican  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 7th Suffolk District | Chynah Tyler | Democratic  | 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 7th Worcester District | Paul Frost | Republican  | 1997 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 8th Bristol District | Paul Schmid III | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 8th Essex District | Lori Ehrlich | Democratic  | March 13, 2008 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 8th Hampden District | Joseph Wagner | Democratic  | 1993 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 8th Middlesex District | Carolyn Dykema | Democratic  | January 7, 2009 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 8th Norfolk District | Ted Philips | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 8th Plymouth District | Angelo D'Emilia | Republican  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 8th Suffolk District | Jay Livingstone | Democratic  | July 17, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 8th Worcester District | Michael Soter | Republican  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 9th Bristol District | Christopher Markey | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 9th Essex District | Donald Wong | Republican  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 9th Hampden District | Orlando Ramos | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 9th Middlesex District | Thomas Stanley | Democratic  | 2001 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 9th Norfolk District | Shawn Dooley | Republican  | January 29, 2014 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 9th Plymouth District | Gerry Cassidy | Democratic  | March 9, 2016 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 9th Suffolk District | Jon Santiago | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 9th Worcester District | David Muradian Jr. | Republican  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 10th Bristol District | William Straus | Democratic  | 1993 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 10th Essex District | Dan Cahill | Democratic  | May 18, 2016 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 10th Hampden District | Carlos Gonzalez | Democratic  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 10th Middlesex District | John Lawn | Democratic  | May 25, 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 10th Norfolk District | Jeffrey Roy | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 10th Plymouth District | Michelle DuBois | Democratic  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 10th Suffolk District | Edward Coppinger | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 10th Worcester District | Brian Murray | Democratic  | 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 11th Bristol District | Christopher Hendricks | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 11th Essex District | Peter Capano | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 11th Hampden District | Bud Williams | Democratic  | 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 11th Middlesex District | Kay Khan | Democratic  | 1995 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 11th Norfolk District | Paul McMurtry | Democratic  | 2007 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 11th Plymouth District | Claire Cronin | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 11th Suffolk District | Elizabeth Malia | Democratic  | 1999 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 11th Worcester District | Hannah Kane | Republican  | April 8, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 12th Bristol District | Norman Orrall | Republican  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 12th Essex District | Thomas Walsh | Democratic  | March 9, 2016 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 12th Hampden District | Angelo Puppolo Jr. | Democratic  | 2007 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 12th Middlesex District | Ruth Balser | Democratic  | 1999 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 12th Norfolk District | John Rogers | Democratic  | 1993 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 12th Plymouth District | Kathleen LaNatra | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 12th Suffolk District | Brandy Fluker Oakley | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 12th Worcester District | Meghan Kilcoyne | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 13th Bristol District | Antonio Cabral | Democratic  | 1991 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 13th Essex District | Sally Kerans | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 13th Middlesex District | Carmine Lawrence Gentile | Democratic  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 13th Norfolk District | Denise Garlick | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 13th Suffolk District | Daniel Hunt | Democratic  | April 16, 2014 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 13th Worcester District | John Mahoney | Democratic  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 14th Bristol District | Adam Scanlon | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 14th Essex District | Christina Minicucci | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 14th Middlesex District | Tami Gouveia | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 14th Norfolk District | Alice Peisch | Democratic  | 2003 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 14th Suffolk District | Rob Consalvo | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 14th Worcester District | James O'Day | Democratic  | 2007 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 15th Essex District | Linda Dean Campbell | Democratic  | 2007 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 15th Middlesex District | Michelle Ciccolo | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 15th Norfolk District | Tommy Vitolo | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 15th Suffolk District | Nika Elugardo | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 15th Worcester District | Mary Keefe | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 16th Essex District | Marcos Devers | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 16th Middlesex District | Thomas Golden Jr. | Democratic  | 1995 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 16th Suffolk District | Jessica Giannino | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 16th Worcester District | Daniel M. Donahue | Democratic  | September 25, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 17th Essex District | Frank Moran | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 17th Middlesex District | Vanna Howard | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 17th Suffolk District | Kevin Honan | Democratic  | 1987 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 17th Worcester District | David LeBoeuf | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 18th Essex District | Tram Nguyen | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 18th Middlesex District | Rady Mom | Democratic  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 18th Suffolk District | Michael Moran | Democratic  | 2005 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 18th Worcester District | Joseph McKenna | Republican  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 19th Middlesex District | David Allen Robertson | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 19th Suffolk District | Jeffrey Turco | Democratic  | April 7, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 20th Middlesex District | Bradley Jones Jr. | Republican  | 1995 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 21st Middlesex District | Kenneth Gordon | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 22nd Middlesex District | Marc Lombardo | Republican  | 2011 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 23rd Middlesex District | Sean Garballey | Democratic  | 2009 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 24th Middlesex District | David Rogers | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 25th Middlesex District | Marjorie Decker | Democratic  | January 5, 2013 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 26th Middlesex District | Mike Connolly | Democratic  | 2017 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 27th Middlesex District | Erika Uyterhoeven | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 28th Middlesex District | Joseph McGonagle Jr. | Democratic  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 29th Middlesex District | Steven Owens | Democratic  | January 6, 2021 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 30th Middlesex District | Richard Haggerty | Democratic  | January 2, 2019 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 31st Middlesex District | Michael Day | Democratic  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 32nd Middlesex District | Kate Lipper-Garabedian | Democratic  | March 25, 2020 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 33rd Middlesex District | Steven Ultrino | Democratic  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 34th Middlesex District | Christine Barber | Democratic  | January 7, 2015 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 35th Middlesex District | Paul Donato Sr. | Democratic  | 2001 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 36th Middlesex District | Colleen Garry | Democratic  | 1995 | Massachusetts House of Representatives 37th Middlesex District | Danillo Sena | Democratic  | June 10, 2020 | Massachusetts House of Representatives Barnstable, Dukes, and Nantucket District | Dylan Fernandes | Democratic  | 2017

### Salaries[edit]

See also: Comparison of state legislative salaries
State legislators

Salary| Per diem
$70,536/year| No per diem is paid. Legislators residing within 50 miles of the statehouse receive an office expense stipend of $17,043 that can be used for travel expenses. Legislators residing more than 50 miles from the statehouse receive $22,723.

### Swearing in dates[edit]

See also: When state legislators assume office after a general election

Massachusetts legislators assume office the first Wednesday in January after the election.[5]

### Membership qualifications[edit]

See also: State legislature candidate requirements by state

Article LXXI of the Massachusetts Constitution states: "Every representative, for one year at least immediately preceding his election, shall have been an inhabitant of the district for which he is chosen and shall cease to represent such district when he shall cease to be an inhabitant of the commonwealth."[6]

## Historical party control[edit]

From 1992 to 2020, the Massachusetts House of Representatives was controlled by the Democratic Party. The table below shows the partisan history of the Massachusetts House of Representatives following every general election from 1992 to 2020. All data from 2006 or earlier comes from Michael Dubin's Party Affiliations in the State Legislatures (McFarland Press, 2007). Data after 2006 was compiled by Ballotpedia staff.

Massachusetts House of Representatives Party Control: 1992-2020

Year  |  '92  |  '94  |  '96  |  '98  |  '00  |  '02  |  '04  |  '06  |  '08  |  '10  |  '12  |  '14  |  '16  |  '18  |  '20

|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|

Democrats | 124 | 125 | 124 | 131 | 137 | 136 | 139 | 141 | 143 | 128 | 131 | 125 | 125 | 127 | 129
Republicans | 35 | 34 | 35 | 28 | 23 | 23 | 20 | 19 | 16 | 32 | 29 | 35 | 35 | 32 | 30
Other | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1

Democrats maintained control of the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 1992 to 2020. House Democrats held their largest majority following the 2008 elections when Democrats held a 127-seat advantage. Throughout the period, Democrats usually controlled between 124 and 143 seats, while Republicans controlled between 16 and 35 seats. During the period, Democrats also held more than the 107 seats required to override a gubernatorial veto. Republicans controlled the governor's office from 1992 to 2006 and have held it since 2015.

In the 2010 elections, Democrats kept control of the state House with a 128-32 majority but lost 14 seats. Republicans increased their minority in both the 2014 and 2016 elections but lost seats in 2018 and 2020. The Republican gains from 2010 to 2016 were in line with a national trend toward Republican state legislatures during the presidency of Barack Obama (D). House Republicans gained seats in the Massachusetts state House but Democrats never fell below 125 seats during Obama's presidency. From 2009 to 2017, Democrats experienced losses in state legislative elections, totaling 968 seats all together.

### Trifecta history[edit]

A state government trifecta is a term that describes single party government, when one political party holds the governor's office and has majorities in both chambers of the legislature in a state government. Between 1992 and 2021, Massachusetts was under the following types of trifecta control:

Democratic trifecta: 2007-2014
Republican trifecta: None
Divided government: 1992-2006, 2015-2021

Massachusetts Party Control: 1992-2021
Eight years of Democratic trifectas • No Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year  |  92  |  93  |  94  |  95  |  96  |  97  |  98  |  99  |  00  |  01  |  02  |  03  |  04  |  05  |  06  |  07  |  08  |  09  |  10  |  11  |  12  |  13  |  14  |  15  |  16  |  17  |  18  |  19  |  20  |  21

|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|

Governor |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R |  R
Senate |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D
House |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D |  D

## Elections[edit]

### Elections by year[edit]

Massachusetts state representatives serve two-year terms, with all seats up for election every two years. Massachusetts holds elections for its legislature in even years.

### 2022[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2022

Elections for the Massachusetts House of Representatives will take place in 2022. The general election is on November 8, 2022.

### 2020[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2020

Elections for the office of Massachusetts House of Representatives took place in 2020. The general election was held on November 3, 2020. A primary was scheduled for September 1, 2020. The local filing deadline was May 5, 2020, and the state filing deadline was June 2, 2020.[7]

In the 2020 elections, Democrats increased their majority in the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 126-31 to 129-30.

Massachusetts House of Representatives

Party  |  As of November 3, 2020  |  After November 4, 2020
|  Democratic Party |  126 |  129
|  Republican Party |  31  |  30
|  Independent  |  1  |  1
|  Vacancy  |  2  |  0
Total |  160 |  160

### 2018[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2018

Elections for the Massachusetts House of Representatives took place in 2018. The semi-closed primary election took place on September 4, 2018, and the general election was held on November 6, 2018. The candidate filing deadline was June 5, 2018Filing deadline for primary candidates.

In the 2018 elections, Democrats increased their majority in the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 117-34 to 127-32.

Massachusetts House of Representatives

Party  |  As of November 6, 2018  |  After November 7, 2018
|  Democratic Party |  117 |  127
|  Republican Party |  34  |  32
|  Independent  |  2  |  1
|  Vacancy  |  7  |  0
Total |  160 |  160

### 2016[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2016

Elections for the Massachusetts House of Representatives took place in 2016. The primary election took place on September 8, 2016, and the general election was held on November 8, 2016. The candidate filing deadline was June 7, 2016. All 160 seats in the Massachusetts House of Representatives were up for election in 2016.

Heading into the election, Democrats held a 125-34 majority with one vacancy. Republicans gained one seat in the November 2016 general election.

Massachusetts House of Representatives

Party  |  As of November 7, 2016  |  After November 8, 2016
|  Democratic Party |  125 |  125
|  Republican Party |  34  |  35
|  Vacancy  |  1  |  0
Total |  160 |  160
Click [show] to see election information dating back to 2000

### 2014[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2014

Elections for the Massachusetts House of Representatives took place in 2014. A primary election was held on September 9, 2014, and a general election was held on November 4, 2014. The signature filing deadline for candidates wishing to run in this election was June 3, 2014.

Heading into the election, Democrats held a 125-29 majority with six vacancies. Democrats maintained control of the chamber in the election with a 125-35 majority. Republicans had six net gains, increasing their total from 29 to 35.

|  Massachusetts House of Representatives

Party  |  As of November 3, 2014  |  After November 4, 2014
|  Democratic Party |  125 |  125
|  Republican Party |  29  |  35
|  Vacancy  |  6  |  0
Total |  160 |  160

### 2012[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2012

Elections for the office of Massachusetts House of Representatives took place in 2012. The primary election was held on September 18, 2012, and the general election was held on November 6, 2012. The candidate filing deadline was May 29, 2012. All 160 seats were up for election.

Heading into the election, Democrats held a 127-33 majority. Democrats gained four seats in the election, giving them a 131-29 majority.

Massachusetts House of Representatives

Party  |  As of November 5, 2012  |  After the 2012 Election
|  Democratic Party |  127 |  131
|  Republican Party |  33  |  29
Total |  160 |  160

The table below details the 10 districts with the smallest margin of victory in the November 6 general election in 2012.

2012 Margin of Victory, Massachusetts House of Representatives

District  | Winner  | Margin of Victory  | Total Votes  | Top Opponent
Second Frankllin District |  Denise Andrews | 1.1% | 18,311 | Susannah Lee
Fourth Middlesex District |  Danielle Gregoire | 1.2% | 18,056 | Steven Levy
Second Worcester District |  Jonathan Zlotnik | 1.9% | 16,712 | Richard Bastien
Eighteenth Essex District |  James Lyons, Jr. | 2.2% | 23,111 | Barbara L'Italien
Eighth Worcester District |  Kevin Kuros | 2.5% | 20,463 | Robert DuBois
Second Essex District |  Leonard Mirra | 4.5% | 24,246 | Barry Fogel
Eighth Plymouth District |  Angelo D'Emilia | 4.6% | 17,750 | Marilee Kenney Hunt
Tenth Norfolk District |  Jeffrey Roy | 8.5% | 21,847 | Richard Eustis
Seventh Plymouth District |  Geoff Diehl | 8.5% | 20,174 | Robert Toomey, Jr.
Sixth Plymouth District |  Josh Cutler | 10.1% | 22,577 | Karen Barry

### 2010[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2010

Elections for the office of Massachusetts House of Representatives took place in 2010. The primary election was held on September 14, 2010, and the general election was held on November 2, 2010. The candidate filing deadline was May 4, 2010, for partisan candidates and August 3, 2010, for independents.

Heading into the election, Democrats held a 142-15 majority with three vacancies. Democrats lost 14 seats in the election, giving them a 128-32 majority.

Massachusetts House of Representatives

Party  |  As of November 1, 2010  |  After the 2010 Election
|  Democratic Party |  142 |  128
|  Republican Party |  15  |  32
|  Vacancy  |  3  |  \-
Total |  160  |  160

In 2010, the candidates running for state House raised a total of $13,713,787 in campaign contributions. The top 10 donors were:[8]

2010 Donors, Massachusetts House of Representatives

Donor  | Amount
Massachusetts Democratic Party  |  $181,529
Retired Public Employees  |  $65,150
Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts  |  $50,700
Adams, Paul  |  $50,350
1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East  |  $44,500
Cutler, Josh S  |  $43,976
Massachusetts Federation of Teachers  |  $43,400
Massachusetts Association of Realtors  |  $37,600
Schmid, Paul  |  $36,543
Hanlon, John F  |  $34,258

### 2008[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2008

Elections for the office of Massachusetts House of Representatives consisted of a primary election on September 16, 2008, and a general election on November 4, 2008.

During the 2008 election, the total of contributions to House candidates was $13,560,016. The top 10 contributors were:[9]

2008 Donors, Massachusetts House of Representatives

Donor  | Amount
Massachusetts Democratic Party  |  $207,144
Devers, Marcos A  |  $125,303
Retired Public Employees  |  $71,200
Massachusetts Republican Party  |  $53,605
Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union  |  $49,500
Professional Fire Fighters Of Massachusetts  |  $48,700
Massachusetts Association Of Realtors  |  $47,925
Massachusetts Federation Of Teachers  |  $44,800
Sheet Metal Workers Local 17  |  $43,325
Campbell, Linda Dean  |  $42,911

### 2006[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2006

Elections for the office of Massachusetts House of Representatives consisted of a primary election on September 19, 2006, and a general election on November 7, 2006.

During the 2006 election, the total of contributions to House candidates was $12,801,270. The top 10 contributors were:[10]

2006 Donors, Massachusetts House of Representatives

Donor  | Amount
Massachusetts Democratic Party  |  $109,919
Miceli, James R  |  $101,119
Retired Public Employees  |  $69,850
Massachusetts Democratic State Cmte  |  $61,416
Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union  |  $52,800
Massachusetts Association Of Realtors  |  $51,600
Professional Fire Fighters Of Massachusetts  |  $44,660
Collamore, Bob  |  $42,450
Beer Distributors Of Massachusetts  |  $37,400
Naughton, Claire B  |  $35,000

### 2004[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2004

Elections for the office of Massachusetts House of Representatives consisted of a primary election on September 14, 2004, and a general election on November 2, 2004.

During the 2004 election, the total of contributions to House candidates was $15,775,817. The top 10 contributors were:[11]

2004 Donors, Massachusetts House of Representatives

Donor  | Amount
Massachusetts Republican Party  |  $1,110,458
Massachusetts Democratic Party  |  $285,437
Babson, Richard L  |  $78,228
Retired Public Employees  |  $57,900
Speaker Finnerans House Victory Fund  |  $57,337
Rogers, George  |  $51,000
Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union  |  $46,350
Boston Police Patrolmens Association  |  $41,700
Professional Fire Fighters Of Massachusetts  |  $37,675
Natale, Patrick  |  $36,574

### 2002[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2002

Elections for the office of Massachusetts House of Representatives consisted of a primary election on September 17, 2002, and a general election on November 5, 2002.

During the 2002 election, the total of contributions to House candidates was $11,100,288. The top 10 contributors were:[12]

2002 Donors, Massachusetts House of Representatives

Donor  | Amount
Public Fund  |  $194,883
Massachusetts Republican Party  |  $70,685
Speaker Finnerans House Victory Fund  |  $51,868
Retired Public Employees  |  $48,250
Massachusetts Laborers District Council  |  $36,825
Massachusetts Democratic Party  |  $35,825
Professional Fire Fighters Of Massachusetts  |  $33,425
Wood, Robert J  |  $32,404
Beer Distributors Of Massachusetts  |  $31,840
Coughlin, Robert K  |  $30,000

### 2000[edit]

See also: Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2000

Elections for the office of Massachusetts House of Representatives consisted of a primary election on September 19, 2000, and a general election on November 7, 2000.

During the 2000 election, the total of contributions to House candidates was $10,434,982. The top 10 contributors were:[13]

2000 Donors, Massachusetts House of Representatives

Donor  | Amount
Massachusetts Republican Party  |  $161,028
Stanley, Harriett L  |  $60,100
Retired Public Employees  |  $48,200
Professional Fire Fighters Of Massachusetts  |  $39,825
Coppola, Michael J & Virginia  |  $36,200
Healey, Kerry Murphy  |  $30,450
Boston Police Patrolmens Association  |  $28,700
Kaplan, Lawrence  |  $28,250
Speaker Finnerans House Victory Fund  |  $26,100
Massachusetts Laborers District Council  |  $25,200

### Vacancies[edit]

See also: How vacancies are filled in state legislatures

If there is a vacancy in the Massachusetts General Court, a special election must be conducted to fill the vacant seat. The election must be held on the next regularly scheduled date on the election calendar.[14] Local governments that conduct special elections receive reimbursement from the state treasurer's office for all costs incurred.[15][16]

See sources: Massachusetts Gen. Laws Ann. ch. 54, § 141 and Massachusetts Const. Amend. Art. 24

## District map[edit]

See also: Massachusetts state legislative districts

The state of Massachusetts has 200 legislative districts. Each district elects one representative. The state Senate has 40 districts and the state House has 160 districts.

Use the interactive map below to find your district.

## Redistricting[edit]

See also: Redistricting in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, congressional and state legislative district lines are drawn by the state legislature. The lines drawn by the state legislature are subject to veto by the governor.[17]

State statutes require that state legislative district boundaries be contiguous and "reasonably preserve counties, towns, and cities intact, where otherwise possible." There are no such requirements in place for congressional districts.[17]

### 2020[edit]

See also: Redistricting in Massachusetts after the 2020 census

Gov. Charlie Baker (R) signed the state's new legislative maps into law on November 4, 2021.[18] The state House passed the maps by a vote of 158-1 on October 21, 2021. The state Senate approved the legislative plans on October 27, 2021 by a vote of 36-3. The legislature began consideration of the state's redistricting plans on October 19, 2021.[19] These maps take effect for Massachusetts' 2022 legislative elections.

After the redistricting plans were enacted, Massachusetts Secretary of State William Galvin (D) issued a statement expressing concern regarding how the maps would be implemented: "I am extremely disappointed that these bills were signed into law in their current form and I think it is a devastating blow to the voters of Massachusetts. With local precincts divided multiple ways, it will inevitably lead to chaos at the polls and make it impossible for voters to understand who their elected representatives are."[20] After the legislature approved the maps, State Sen. William Brownsberger (D) said, "It’s a quality final product. We have used every minute we’ve had to keep vetting, to keep adjusting . . . and to respond to input that we’ve received."[21]

#### District map after 2020 redistricting[edit]

This map takes effect for Massachusetts' 2022 legislative elections.

### 2010[edit]

See also: Redistricting in Massachusetts after the 2010 census

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Massachusetts experienced a 3.1 percent increase in population between 2000 and 2010, with the population rising from approximately 6.35 million to 6.55 million. This was below the national average of 9.7 percent, and Massachusetts lost a Congressional seat as a result of the relatively slow growth.[22][23][24]

The Special Joint Committee on Redistricting conducted the redistricting process.[25] On October 18, 2011, the state legislature released draft state Senate and state House maps. The Senate and House plans were passed on November 1, 2011, and were signed into law by the governor November 3, 2011.[26]

## Sessions[edit]

### Legislation[edit]

The legislation tracker below displays all legislation that the Massachusetts House of Representatives has approved in its most recent legislative session—this includes legislation that has been sent from the Senate to the House and legislation that has already been approved by the House and signed by the governor after its passage in the Senate. The table below includes the bill number, its name, progress, most recent action date, and sponsor. Scroll up and down and side to side to see more. Click the bill number to read the bill text and see its voting history. Click the headings to sort the content. Rearrange the order of the headings by clicking and dragging them. Click the magnifying glass in the bottom left corner to search for specific terms. The legislation tracker is maintained and updated by BillTrack50.

### Dates of legislative sessions in Massachusetts by year[edit]

### 2021[edit]

See also: 2021 Massachusetts legislative session and Dates of 2021 state legislative sessions

In 2021, the legislature was scheduled to convene on January 6, 2021, and adjourn on January 4, 2022.

### 2020[edit]

See also: 2020 Massachusetts legislative session and Dates of 2020 state legislative sessions

In 2020, the legislature was scheduled to convene on January 1, 2020, and adjourn on January 5, 2021.

#### Effect of coronavirus pandemic[edit]

See also: Changes to state legislative session dates in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, 2020

Coronavirus pandemic
Select a topic from the dropdown below to learn more.

Political responses overviewState reopening plansDocumenting America's Path to RecoveryDaily updatesElection changesChanges to vote-by-mail and absentee voting proceduresFederal responsesState responsesState executive ordersStay-at-home ordersMultistate agreementsNon-governmental reopening plansEvictions and foreclosures policiesTravel restrictionsEnacted state legislationState legislative session changesSchool closuresState court closuresInmate releasesLocal government responsesDiagnosed or quarantined politiciansBallot measure changesArguments about government responsesThe 1918 influenza pandemicPandemic Response Accountability CommitteeUnemployment filingsLawsuitsBallotpedia's polling on the coronavirus pandemicSubmit

Several state legislatures had their sessions impacted as a result of the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. No modifications to state legislative activity in Massachusetts were made.

### 2019[edit]

See also: 2019 Massachusetts legislative session and Dates of 2019 state legislative sessions

In 2019, the legislature was in session from January 2, 2019, through December 31, 2019.

### 2018[edit]

See also: 2018 Massachusetts legislative session and Dates of 2018 state legislative sessions

In 2018, the legislature was in session from January 3, 2018, through July 31, 2018 (formal)

December 31, 2018 (informal). To read about notable events and legislation from this session, click here.

Click [show] for past years' session dates.

### 2017[edit]

See also: Dates of 2017 state legislative sessions

In 2017, the legislature was in session from January 4, 2017, through November 15, 2017. The legislature held an informal session from November 16, 2017, to January 2, 2018.

### 2016[edit]

See also: Dates of 2016 state legislative sessions

In 2016, the legislature was in session from January 6 through July 31.

#### Major issues in 2016[edit]

Major issues in the 2016 legislative session included charter schools, energy, early education, and taxes.[27]

### 2015[edit]

See also: Dates of 2015 state legislative sessions

In 2015, the legislature was in session from January 7, 2015, through January 5, 2016.

#### Major issues in 2015[edit]

Major issues in the 2015 legislative session included the state budget deficit.[28]

### 2014[edit]

See also: Dates of 2014 state legislative sessions

In 2014, the legislature was in session from January 14 through August 1.

#### Major issues in 2014[edit]

Major issues in the 2014 legislative session included the minimum wage, unemployment insurance reform, gun control, and assisted suicide.[29][30]

### 2013[edit]

See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions

In 2013, the legislature was in session from January 2 to December 31.

#### Major issues in 2013[edit]

Major issues in the 2013 legislative session included revenue shortfalls, transportation financing, firearm regulation, and health care costs.[31]

### 2012[edit]

See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions

In 2012, the legislature was in session starting January 4 through July 31.

#### Major issues in 2012[edit]

Leading the agenda was the regulation of special education collaboratives in the state. Other issues included controlling health costs and a sentencing bill that would bar parole for prisoners convicted of more than two violent crimes.[32]

In August 2012, Sen. Mike Rush (D) and Rep. Ed Coppinger (D) wrote a list of legislative accomplishments from the session. Among the major policy items addressed were the passage of balanced FY 2012 and 2013 state budgets, a health care cost containment bill, strategic economic development legislation, and the legalization of casino gaming.[33]

### 2011[edit]

In 2011, the legislature was in session from January 5 through November 16.

### 2010[edit]

In 2010, the legislature convened its session on January 6th, and it remained in session throughout 2010.

### About legislative sessions in Massachusetts[edit]

The Tenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution declares that any power not already given to the federal government is reserved to the states and the people.[34] State governments across the country use this authority to hold legislative sessions where a state's elected representatives meet for a period of time to draft and vote on legislation and set state policies on issues such as taxation, education, and government spending. The different types of legislation passed by a legislature may include resolutions, legislatively referred constitutional amendments, and bills that become law.

The Massachusetts Constitution contains provisions regarding when the Massachusetts General Court, which the House is a part of, is to meet. This subject has been the focus of several amendments to the Constitution. Originally,  Chapter 1 of the Massachusetts Constitution called for the General Court to convene on the last Wednesday of May. Then,  Amending Article X called for legislative sessions to convene yearly on the first Wednesday of January. Later,  Amending Article LXXII called for the General Court to meet once every two years, but  Amending Article LXXV repealed that amendment. Therefore, the rules that currently govern when the General Court is to meet are in Amending Article X.

Article X calls for the General Court to convene its regular session on the first Wednesday of January. The session does not dissolve until a new regular session convenes in the next year. Article X specifies that it does not prevent the General Court from meeting at any time that it judges necessary.[35]

## Legislative roles and procedures[edit]

Every state legislature throughout the country features its own internal procedures that it uses to govern itself and how it interacts with other parts of state government. Ballotpedia's coverage of internal state legislative procedures includes veto overrides, the role of the legislature in the state budget, procedures for filling membership vacancies, and redistricting.

### Veto overrides[edit]

See also: Veto overrides in state legislatures

State legislatures can override governors' vetoes. Depending on the state, this can be done during the regular legislative session, in a special session following the adjournment of the regular session, or during the next legislative session. The rules for legislative overrides of gubernatorial vetoes in Massachusetts are listed below.

How many legislators are required to vote for an override? Two-thirds of members present in both chambers.

Two-thirds of members present in both chambers must vote to override a veto. If all members are in attendance, this is 107 of the 160 members in the Massachusetts House of Representatives and 27 of the 40 members in the Massachusetts State Senate. Massachusetts is one of 36 states that requires a two-thirds vote from both of its legislative chambers to override a veto.

Authority: Chapter 1, Article II of the Massachusetts Constitution.

"But if he have any objection to the passing of such bill or resolve, he shall return the same, together with his objections thereto, in writing, to the senate or house of representatives, in whichsoever the same shall have originated; who shall enter the objections sent down by the governor, at large, on their records, and proceed to reconsider the said bill or resolve. But if after such reconsideration, two thirds of the said senate or house of representatives, shall, notwithstanding the said objections, agree to pass the same, it shall, together with the objections, be sent to the other branch of the legislature, where it shall also be reconsidered, and if approved by two thirds of the members present, shall have the force of a law: but in all such cases, the votes of both houses shall be determined by yeas and nays; and the names of the persons voting for, or against, the said bill or resolve, shall be entered upon the public records of the commonwealth."

### Role in state budget[edit]

See also: Massachusetts state budget and finances
Massachusetts on

Check out Ballotpedia articles about policy in your state on:
Budgets • Civil liberties • Education • Elections • Energy • Environment • Healthcare • Pensions

* * *

The state operates on an annual budget cycle. The sequence of key events in the budget process is as follows:[36]

1. Budget instructions are sent to state agencies in mid-November of the year preceding the start of the new fiscal year.
2. Agency hearings are held in February.
3. The governor submits his or her proposed budget to the state legislature on the fourth Wednesday in January.
4. The legislature typically adopts a budget in June. A simple majority is required to pass a budget. The fiscal year begins July 1.

Massachusetts is one of 44 states in which the governor has line item veto authority.[36]

The governor is legally required to submit a balanced budget proposal. Likewise, the legislature is legally required to pass a balanced budget.[36]

## Committees[edit]

See also: List of committees in Massachusetts state government

Every state legislature and state legislative chamber in the country contains several legislative committees. These committees are responsible for studying, amending, and voting on legislation before it reaches the floor of a chamber for a full vote. The different types of committees include standing committees, select or special, and joint.

* Standing committees are generally permanent committees, the names of which sometimes change from session to session.
* Select or special committees are temporary committees formed to deal with specific issues such as recent legislation, major public policy or proposals, or investigations.
* Joint committees are committees that feature members of both chambers of a legislature.

Ballotpedia covers standing and joint committees. The Massachusetts House of Representatives has 11 standing committees:

* Federal Stimulus and Census Oversight Committee
* House Bills in the Third Reading Committee
* House Ethics Committee
* House Global Warming and Climate Change Committee
* House Post Audit and Oversight Committee
* House Redistricting Committee
* House Rules Committee
* House Ways and Means Committee
* Human Resources and Employee Engagement Committee
* Operations, Facilities and Security Committee
* Steering, Policy and Scheduling Committee

## Constitutional amendments[edit]

In every state but Delaware, voter approval is required to enact a constitutional amendment. In each state, the legislature has a process for referring constitutional amendments before voters. In 18 states, initiated constitutional amendments can be put on the ballot through a signature petition drive. There are also many other types of statewide measures.

The methods in which the Massachusetts Constitution can be amended:

See also: Article XLVIII, Amendments to the Massachusetts Constitution, and Laws governing ballot measures in Massachusetts

The process of amending the Massachusetts Constitution is governed by Article XLVIII, Amendments to the Massachusetts Constitution, which is itself the 48th amendment to the state's constitution.

Article 48 allows the constitution to be amended through indirect initiative amendments. It imposes a number of restrictions on such proposed amendments:

* Petitions that relate to "religion, religious practices or religious institutions" are prohibited.
* Petitions that relate to the "appointment, qualification, tenure, removal, recall or compensation of judges" are prohibited.
* Petitions that would reverse judicial decisions are prohibited.
* Petitions relating to the "powers, creation or abolition of courts" are prohibited.
* Petitions that apply only to "a particular town, city or other political division or to particular districts or localities of the commonwealth" are prohibited.
* Petitions that would make "a specific appropriation of money from the treasury of the commonwealth" are prohibited.
* Any petition relating to Amendment 18 is prohibited through citizen initiative; however, Amendment 18 was altered through other paths.
* Petitions "inconsistent with" a list of "rights of the individual" are prohibited; those rights include:

* "The right to receive compensation for private property appropriated to public use."
* "The right of access to and protection in courts of justice."
* "The right of trial by jury."
* "Protection from unreasonable search unreasonable bail and the law martial."
* "Freedom of the press."
* "Freedom of elections."
* "The right of peaceable assembly."

* The sections of the constitution that prohibit various matters from being taken up by citizen initiative are also, themselves, prohibited from change through the process.
* Petitions that are "substantially the same as any measure which has been qualified for submission or submitted to the people at either of the two preceding biennial state elections" are prohibited.

The state's general court plays a significant role in the process for an initiated constitutional amendment in Massachusetts:

* The Massachusetts General Court is allowed to refer an alternative substitute measure to the ballot to compete with the proposed citizen initiative.
* The state legislature is allowed to amend the text of an initiated constitutional amendment through a three-fourths vote in joint session.
* In two successive legislative sessions, 25 percent of the members of the Massachusetts General Court must support the proposed amendment in order for it to go on the ballot. There are 200 legislators altogether—40 in the Massachusetts State Senate and 160 in the Massachusetts House of Representatives—so a proposed amendment must earn 50 positive votes. The proposed amendment does not need to earn a 25 percent vote from both chambers, but, rather, from a joint session. This means, for example, that if 50 members of the state house voted in favor of an amendment, it would require no support from any state senator to qualify for the ballot.

The Massachusetts General Court may also legislatively refer constitutional amendments. This procedure is defined in Section 1 to 3 of Article LXXXI of the Massachusetts Constitution. According to that section:

* Amendments may be proposed by either house of the Massachusetts General Court.
* Consideration of the amendment in a joint session may be called for by a vote of either house no later than the second Wednesday in May.
* Proposed amendments must receive majority approval (50% + 1) two successive joint legislative sessions to be placed on the ballot.
* If any such proposed amendment is approved by a simple majority of voters and by at least 30 percent of people voting in that election, the amendment is adopted.

The Massachusetts Constitution can also be changed through a constitutional convention and subsequent ratification from the voters.

There have been four constitutional conventions in Massachusetts:

* From 1779–80. This led to the adoption of the Massachusetts Constitution, which is the oldest state constitution continuously in effect.
* From 1820–21. This convention yielded the Articles of Amendment, 1-9.
* 1853\. This convention led to a proposal for an entirely new constitution and seven proposed amendments. They were submitted to a vote of the people, and they all lost.
* 1917–19. This constitution proposed 22 amendments and a revised draft of the existing constitution. Voters approved all these proposals.

2021 measures:

Below is a list of measures that were referred to the 2021 ballot by the legislature or that have made it approximately halfway throughIn states where it takes one session to refer a measure to the ballot, Ballotpedia begins coverage of proposals once they have passed in one chamber of the legislature and only require approval in the second chamber for referral. In states where it takes two session to refer a measure to the ballot, Ballotpedia begins coverage of proposals once they have passed in both chambers in the first session required. the process in the legislature for referral to the ballot in 2021.

See also: 2021 ballot measures

Certified:

The following measures have been certified for the ballot.

No measures to list

Potential:

The following measures have made it through one chamber—or one session for two session states—and may appear on the ballot in 2021.

No measures to list

## See also[edit]

Elections | Massachusetts State Government | State Legislatures | State Politics

|
|
|

* Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2022
* Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2020
* Massachusetts House of Representatives elections, 2018

* Massachusetts General Court
* Massachusetts State Senate
* Governor of Massachusetts
* Massachusetts Supreme Court

* State legislative elections, 2022
* State legislative elections, 2021
* State legislative elections, 2020
* State legislative elections, 2019
* State legislative elections, 2018

* State government trifectas
* State government triplexes
* State executives
* State courts
* Ballot measures

## Footnotes[edit]

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 This date reflects the regularly-scheduled date and does not reflect any change made as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. For more information on changes to state legislative sessions as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
2. ↑ MassLive, "As Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker OKs new districts, Secretary of State William Galvin warns of chaos," November 4, 2021
3. ↑ Boston Globe, "Lawmakers poised to send new political maps, increasing number of majority-minority districts, to Baker," October 27, 2021
4. ↑ Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth, "Massachusetts Facts - Part One: Concise Facts, " accessed February 12, 2021
5. ↑ Massachusetts Constitution, "Article LXXXII," accessed February 12, 2021
6. ↑ Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth, "Massachusetts Constitution," accessed February 12, 2021
7. ↑ To appear on the ballot in Massachusetts, prospective candidates must submit nomination papers for certification to the registrars of the cities or towns in which signatures were collected and to the Secretary of the Commonwealth. The local filing deadline must occur four weeks prior to the candidate's second filing deadline with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. In 2020, the local-level filing deadline was May 5 and the state-level filing deadline was June 2. Click here to learn more.
8. ↑ Follow the Money, "Massachusetts 2010 - Candidates," accessed September 16, 2014
9. ↑ Follow the Money, "Massachusetts 2008 Candidates," accessed August 23, 2013
10. ↑ Follow the Money, "Massachusetts 2006 Candidates," accessed August 23, 2013
11. ↑ Follow the Money, "Massachusetts 2004 Candidates," accessed August 23, 2013
12. ↑ Follow the Money, "Massachusetts 2002 Candidates," accessed August 23, 2013
13. ↑ Follow the Money, "Massachusetts 2000 Candidates," accessed August 23, 2013
14. ↑ Massachusetts General Court, "General Laws," accessed February 12, 2021 (Section Chapter 50, Section 6A)
15. ↑ Massachusetts General Court, "General Laws," accessed February 12, 2021 (Section Chapter 3: Section 10A)
16. ↑ Massachusetts General Court, "General Laws," accessed February 12, 2021 (Section Chapter 54: Section 141)
17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 All About Redistricting, "Massachusetts," accessed May 4, 2015
18. ↑ MassLive, "As Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker OKs new districts, Secretary of State William Galvin warns of chaos," November 4, 2021
19. ↑ Boston Globe, "Lawmakers poised to send new political maps, increasing number of majority-minority districts, to Baker," October 27, 2021
20. ↑ Boston Globe, "Lawmakers poised to send new political maps, increasing number of majority-minority districts, to Baker," October 27, 2021
21. ↑ Boston Globe, "Lawmakers poised to send new political maps, increasing number of majority-minority districts, to Baker," October 27, 2021
22. ↑ U.S. Census Bureau, "2010 Census: Massachusetts Profile," accessed February 12, 2021
23. ↑ Belmont Citizen-Herald, "Census preparing to deliver redistricting data to states," January 13, 2011
24. ↑ Boston Globe, "Census begins fight on districts," March 23, 2011
25. ↑ Boston Herald, "Lawmakers launch Mass. redistricting process," March 16, 2011
26. ↑ All About Redistricting, "Massachusetts," accessed June 8, 2021
27. ↑ The Associated Press, "Legislative leader to outline goals for 2016 session," January 29, 2016
28. ↑ State House News Service, "DeLeo, Rosenberg won't rule out tax increases in face of budget deficit," January 8, 2015
29. ↑ The Washington Post, "Massachusetts session preview: A full policy plate for 2014," January 9, 2014
30. ↑ The Boston Globe, "Minimum wage battles are shifting to the states," January 13, 2014
31. ↑ Boston Herald, "Mass. formally opens legislative session," January 2, 2013
32. ↑ Lowell Sun, "Mass. lawmakers to weigh bill on special ed groups," January 4, 2012
33. ↑ Wicked Local Roslindale, "Sen. Rush, Rep. Coppinger announce legislative highlights," August 18, 2012
34. ↑ Find Law, "Tenth Amendment - U.S. Constitution," accessed February 12, 2021
35. ↑ Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth, "Massachusetts Constitution," accessed February 12, 2021
36. ↑ 36.0 36.1 36.2 National Association of State Budget Officers, "Budget Processes in the States, Spring 2015," accessed February 5, 2021

v • e

State legislatures

Legislatures|

Alabama (H, S) · Alaska (H, S) · Arizona (H, S) · Arkansas (H, S) · California (A, S) · Colorado (H, S) · Connecticut (H, S) · Delaware (H, S) · Florida (H, S) · Georgia (H, S) · Hawaii (H, S) · Idaho (H, S) · Illinois (H, S) · Indiana (H, S) · Iowa (H, S) · Kansas (H, S) · Kentucky (H, S) · Louisiana (H, S) · Maine (H, S) · Maryland (H, S) · Massachusetts (H, S) · Michigan (H, S) · Minnesota (H, S) · Mississippi (H, S) · Missouri (H, S) · Montana (H, S) · Nebraska · Nevada (A, S) · New Hampshire (H, S) · New Jersey (GA, S) · New Mexico (H, S) · New York (A, S) · North Carolina (H, S) · North Dakota (H, S) · Ohio (H, S) · Oklahoma (H, S) · Oregon (H, S) · Pennsylvania (H, S) · Rhode Island (H, S) · South Carolina (H, S) · South Dakota (H, S) · Tennessee (H, S) · Texas (H, S) · Utah (H, S) · Vermont (H, S) · Virginia (H, S) · Washington (H, S) · West Virginia (H, S) · Wisconsin (A, S) · Wyoming (H, S)

* * *

2022|

State legislative elections (2022) • State legislative special elections (2022) • Primary dates and filing requirements • 2022 Session Dates

* * *

2021|

State legislative elections (2021) • State legislative special elections (2021) • Primary dates and filing requirements • 2021 Session Dates

* * *

Historical elections|

2020 • 2019 • 2018 • 2017 • 2016 • 2015 • 2014 • 2013 • 2012 • 2011 • 2010 • 2009 • 2008 • 2007 • 2006 • 2005 • 2004 • 2003 • 2002 • 2001 • 2000

* * *

Features of
state legislatures|

How vacancies are filled in state legislatures • States with a full-time legislature • State legislatures with term limits • Comparison of state legislative salaries • When state legislators assume office after a general election • Population represented by state legislators • State constitutional articles governing state legislatures • State legislative sessions • Resign-to-run law • State legislature candidate requirements by state • Official names of state legislatures • State legislative chambers that use multi-member districts • Factors Affecting Competitiveness in State Legislative Elections

* * *

State senates|

Length of terms of state senators • State senators • Partisan composition of state senates • State senators sorted by year first elected

* * *

State houses|

Length of terms of state representatives • State representatives • Partisan composition of state houses • State representatives sorted by year first elected

* * *

Leadership positions|

President of the Senate • President Pro Tempore • Senate Majority Leader • Senate Minority Leader • House Majority Leader • House Minority Leader • State Speaker of the House

v • e

Ballotpedia

About|

Overview • What people are saying • Support Ballotpedia • Contact • Contribute • Job opportunities

* * *

Executive: Leslie Graves, President • Gwen Beattie, Chief Operating Officer • Ken Carbullido, Vice President of Election Product and Technology Strategy

Communications: Kayla Harris • Megan Brown • Mary Dunne • Sarah Groat • Lauren Nemerovski
External Relations: Alison Prange • Sara Key • Kari Berger • Hannah Nelson
Operations: Meghann Olshefski • Lauren Dixon • Kelly Rindfleisch • Sara Horton • Elizabeth Brown
Policy: Christopher Nelson • Caitlin Styrsky • Molly Byrne • Katharine Frey • Jace Lington • Jimmy McAllister
Tech: Matt Latourelle, Tech Manager • Ryan Burch • Michael Cella • Kirsten Corrao • Margaret Kearney • Tom Reitz

Contributors: Scott Rasmussen

* * *

Editorial|

Geoff Pallay, Editor-in-Chief • Daniel Anderson, Managing Editor • Josh Altic, Managing Editor • Cory Eucalitto, Managing Editor • Mandy Gillip, Managing Editor • Jerrick Adams • Victoria Antram • Dave Beaudoin • Jaclyn Beran • Marielle Bricker • Ryan Byrne • Kate Carsella • Kelly Coyle • Megan Feeney • Tyler King • Doug Kronaizl • Amee LaTour • David Luchs • Brittony Maag • Andrew McNair • Jackie Mitchell • Elisabeth Moore • Ellen Morrissey • Mackenzie Murphy • Paul Rader • Ethan Rice • Abbey Smith • Janie Valentine • Caitlin Vanden Boom • Joel Williams • Corinne Wolyniec • Samuel Wonacott • Mercedes Yanora

v • e

State of Massachusetts
Boston (capital)

|

Elections |

What's on my ballot? | Elections in 2021 | How to vote | How to run for office | Ballot measures

Government |

Who represents me? | U.S. President | U.S. Congress | Federal courts | State executives | State legislature | State and local courts | Counties | Cities | School districts | Public policy