MA
Massachusetts House Bill H559
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
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Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H559

Introduced
2/27/25  
Refer
2/27/25  

Caption

Resolve providing for an investigation and study by a special commission relative to the consumer impacts of electronic textbooks

Impact

The special commission described in the bill will comprise a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from educational institutions, student advocacy groups, and the electronic textbook industry. Their collective expertise is expected to yield valuable insights into the nuances of electronic textbooks, particularly focusing on issues like cost transparency, resale limitations, and the impact of institutional ties on student choices. The findings from this commission will be essential in shaping any future legislation aimed at regulating digital educational resources and ensuring fair access for students.

Summary

House Bill 559 proposes the establishment of a special commission tasked with investigating the consumer impacts of electronic textbooks. This bill, presented by Representatives Mindy Domb and Priscila S. Sousa, aims to scrutinize various aspects of electronic textbooks including their benefits, disadvantages, and contractual agreements impacting student consumers. The intention is to gain a comprehensive understanding of how these digital materials affect students' ability to access and utilize educational resources effectively.

Contention

Notably, this bill addresses growing concerns regarding the accessibility and affordability of electronic textbooks in higher education. Critics may argue that without regulation, electronic textbooks could pose significant barriers to students, particularly in terms of cost and restrictions on ownership. However, proponents contend that a thorough investigation will provide the necessary foundation for informed decisions that improve resource availability. The commission's findings could inform crucial legislative amendments needed to enhance consumer protection and educational equity in Massachusetts.

Companion Bills

MA H5340

Replaced by Resolve providing for an investigation and study by a special commission relative to the consumer impacts of electronic textbooks

Previously Filed As

MA H5340

Resolve providing for an investigation and study by a special commission relative to the consumer impacts of electronic textbooks

MA H221

Resolve providing for an investigation by a special commission relative to the feasibility of a diaper allowance

MA S613

Resolve providing for an investigation and study by a special commission relative to mattress recycling

MA H118

Resolve providing for an investigation by a special commission relative to the strengths and sustainability of the Commonwealth’s emergency food network

MA S2022

Resolve providing for an investigation and study by a special commission relative to a senior state property tax deferral program

MA S120

Resolve providing for an investigation by a special commission relative to the feasibility of a diaper allowance

MA H2017

Resolve providing for an investigation and study by a special commission relative to gender-responsive programming for juvenile justice system involved girls

MA H4419

Resolve providing for an investigation by a special commission relative to the strengths and sustainability of the Commonwealth’s emergency food network

MA H892

Resolve to establish a special commission to perform an investigation and providing for a study relative to the long term management, maintenance and future use of the Boston Harbor Long and Moon Islands

MA H3613

Resolve to establish a special commission to perform an investigation and providing for a study relative to the potential implementation of a time limit for handicapped parking placard use in a metered spot

Similar Bills

MA H5340

Resolve providing for an investigation and study by a special commission relative to the consumer impacts of electronic textbooks

OK HB1982

Schools; contracts for school materials; electronic textbook and instructional materials; contracts between vendors and schools; damages; definitions; effective date; emergency.

OK HB1982

Schools; contracts for school materials; electronic textbook and instructional materials; contracts between vendors and schools; damages; definitions; effective date; emergency.

NJ S3086

Requires board of education to provide an individual textbook for each student enrolled in class.

NJ S2196

Requires DOE to maintain list of textbook vendors that use inclusive material and school districts to use textbooks from those vendors.

AZ SB1479

Textbooks; adverse representation; prohibition

AZ SB1599

Textbooks; adverse representation; prohibition

NJ S771

Eliminates requirement to submit sales tax exemption form for textbook purchases.