Massachusetts S1600: An Act relative to the safety of Autistic and Alzheimer's individuals

What the bill says

From the introduced text, February 27, 2025:

SECTION 1. For the purposes of this section, “technology-assisted tracking device” shall mean any wearable device that: (i) is waterproof and able to function under water; (ii) is compliant with IP66 and IP68 standards; (iii) is operational indoors or under cover; (iv) does not require direct line of sight to the sky; (v) is independent of third-party public communication networks, cellular, GSM, GPRS or similar; (vi) includes a tamper-resistant wrist or ankle strap directly changeable by a caregiver; (vii) includes system specifics to avoid false alarms in order not to avoid unnecessary law enforcement search and rescue efforts; and (viii) has a patient specific code to avoid mistaken identities. SECTION 2. The Prevention and Wellness Advisory Board, established under section 2H of chapter 111 of the General Laws, shall make recommendations to the department of public health on the use of technology-assisted tracking devices to mitigate risks associated with wandering for certain populations including, but not limited to, individuals with dementia, autism spectrum disorder or Alzheimer’s disease. The advisory board shall also review and make recommendations on ways to incorporate the use of technology-assisted tracking devices into a pilot program funded through the Prevention and Wellness Trust Fund, established under section 2G of chapter 111 of the General Laws to increase the safety of individuals with dementia, autism spectrum disorder …

Read the full official text

Sponsors

• Patrick O'Connor (R, First Plymouth and Norfolk) · primary sponsor

Latest actions

1. August 20, 2026: Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S3258
2. March 19, 2026: Reporting date extended to Friday July 31, 2026
3. June 6, 2025: Hearing scheduled for 06/11/2025 from 09:00 AM-01:00 PM in A-1
4. February 27, 2025: House concurred
5. February 27, 2025: Referred to the committee on Public Health

Common questions

What is S1600?

S1600 is a bill in the Massachusetts Legislature (194th General Court): An Act relative to the safety of Autistic and Alzheimer's individuals.

What is the status of S1600?

Failed as of August 20, 2026. Latest action: Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S3258 (August 20, 2026).

Who sponsored S1600?

Patrick O'Connor (R, First Plymouth and Norfolk).

Where is the official record for S1600?

On the Massachusetts Legislature website: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1600