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10/29/25 H.4670-An Act Relative to Personal Financial Literacy Education H.4671- An Act expanding student access to the state seal of biliteracy H.4671- An Act Relative to Teacher Preparation and Student Literacy Voted Favorably Find out more about the bills here: https://malegislature.gov/PressRoom/Detail?pressReleaseId=271
10/22/25 H. 4644- An Act enhancing child welfare protections Voted: Favorable HOUSE PASSES BILL TO ENHANCE CHILD WELFARE PROTECTIONS Bill strengthens oversight, transparency, and accountability within the Commonwealth’s child welfare system BOSTON – Wednesday, October 22, 2025 – Today, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed comprehensive legislation to strengthen oversight, transparency, and accountability within the Commonwealth’s child welfare system. An Act Enhancing Child Welfare Protections modernizes the Department of Children and Families’ (DCF) statutory reporting, clarifies the independence of the Office of the Child Advocate (OCA), improves educational stability for children in care, and updates the state’s child fatality review process. “Every child in Massachusetts deserves safety, stability, and opportunity,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “This bill strengthens oversight, improves coordination between agencies, and ensures that children in state care receive the support that they need to thrive. I’d like to thank Chairman Livingstone for his work on this bill, and all my colleagues in the House for supporting it.” “This bill strengthens the systems that protect the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable children, said Representative Jay D. Livingstone (D-Boston), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities. “It gives DCF, the Legislature, and the public more tools to better understand what’s working, identify where improvement is needed, and continue improving outcomes for children. I want to thank Speaker Mariano and Chair Michlewitz for their commitment to these issues, as well as my House colleagues for supporting this important legislation.” This legislation expands statutory reporting by DCF to include disability and disaggregated demographic data, breakdowns of 51A reports by reporter role, ADA accommodation and complaint metrics, and refined placement and permanency measures. It also adds reporting requirements on outcomes for youth aging out of DCF’s care, behavioral health boarding, and education metrics, such as individualized education program counts, attendance, and graduation rates. The bill passed today allows for the creation of a DCF Education Unit, tasked with academic monitoring, support, and strengthening coordination with school districts. It also requires DCF and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to establish clear enrollment timelines and record transfer standards for children in DCF custody who change schools. The bill passed today also clarifies the role of the Office of the Child Advocate (OCA) as an independent state agency. It further expends the OCA’s authority to examine disproportionality, partner with agencies while safeguarding oversight, maintain a public mandated reporter website, and conduct systemwide reviews of DCF. Additionally, the bill strengthens the Child Fatality Review System by establishing joint leadership between the OCA and the Department of Public Health (DPH). It further updates the membership to include the Department of Early Education & Care (EEC) and codifies the structure of local review teams. Lastly, the bill improves timely notifications to children’s counsel following placement changes, hospitalizations, 51A reports or school disciplinary events. It also requires reporting on children who remain in psychiatric care beyond medical necessity, including length of stay and licensure/training requirements for DCF social workers. The bill passed the House of Representatives 159-1. It now goes to the Senate for consideration.
10/22/25 H. 4645- An Act relative to assault and battery upon a transit worker Voted: Favorable MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE PASSES LEGISLATION TO PROTECT PUBLIC TRANSIT WORKERS FROM ASSAULT Bill strengthens protections for public transit workers by expanding current laws on assault and battery against public employees BOSTON – Wednesday, October 22, 2025 – Today, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed legislation that strengthens protections for public transit workers by expanding current laws on assault and battery against public employees. The bill, An Act relative to assault and battery upon a transit worker, ensures that transit employees receive the same legal heightened protections as other public employees while performing their jobs. “This bill responds to growing concerns from transit agencies and labor advocates about the rising number of attacks on workers, making the passage of this legislation critical,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “The House remains committed to protecting workers and supporting those who serve the Commonwealth in essential roles. I’m grateful to Chairman Day and Chairman McGonagle for their hard work, and to all my colleagues in the House for recognizing the importance of this bill.” “Our public transit system runs because of the dedication of workers who show up every day to serve us,” said Representative Michael S. Day (D-Stoneham), House Chair of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary. “Today we affirmed the House’s continued commitment to protect those workers who are essential to the success of the Commonwealth and our everyday lives.” “Our transit workers provide critical services all over the Commonwealth, yet are many times assaulted by the very customers they serve. I am so thrilled to have this bill passed to provide our transit workers with the protections they deserve,” said Representative Joseph W. McGonagle (D-Everett). “The right to feel safe and supported on the job is just that, a right. I’m grateful today that my colleagues in the House can join me in supporting this right. I’m also extremely grateful to the brave men and women who came forward to share their stories. Thank you especially to Mr. Speaker, Chair Day and all those who helped get this bill passed.” "We thank the House for voting in favor of this important legislation to protect our MBTA train and bus operators, and all public transit employees,” said Jim Evers, President of Boston Carmens Union Local 589. “Protecting transit workers is essential to maintaining a safe and quality public transportation system. This bill will ensure the safety of the essential workers who keep our communities moving every day. We look forward to swift passage in the Senate so that these vital protections can be signed into state law to safeguard transit workers for generations to come." Current Massachusetts law imposes heightened penalties on individuals for assault and battery against public employees including police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and other government workers. This bill adds public transit workers to that list. The bill also clarifies and broadens the definition of assault by specifically recognizing that projecting bodily fluids, such as spitting or throwing substances like urine, constitutes assault against a public worker. Offenders would face a sentence ranging from a minimum of 90 days to 2.5 years in a house of correction, a fine between $500 and $5,000 or both. Having passed the House of Representatives 160-0, the bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.
6/26/2025 Massachusetts Legislature Approves Joint Rules Voted favorably. Massachusetts Legislature Approves Joint Rules, Ushering in More Accessible, Efficient Lawmaking Wide-ranging reforms deliver more information to the public and adjust the legislative calendar (BOSTON—6/26/2025) The Massachusetts Legislature today adopted joint rules that will make lawmaking more efficient, transparent and accessible to the public while adjusting the legislative calendar to allow more time to get meaningful policy accomplished. The first agreed-upon joint rules since 2019, these new rules will now govern the legislative process, joint committees, and interactions between the House of Representatives and the Senate for the 2025-2026 legislative session. To increase public accessibility, committees will now post plain-language bill summaries online, the public will have more advance notice of hearings, and committee attendance and votes will be made public. To increase legislative efficiency, committees are allowed to act independently on bills from their respective chambers, and formal lawmaking will be allowed to continue for the full two-year session. “These critical reforms are representative of the House’s strong commitment to the pursuit of a more accessible and efficient Legislature that is responsive to the concerns of our constituents,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “We remain focused on the all-important responsibility of bettering the General Court as an institution, a goal that I know so many of my colleagues are committed to. I want to thank Leader Moran, Chairman Galvin, and my colleagues in the House, as well as our partners in the Senate, for working diligently to find common ground, and to produce a strong set of meaningful reforms.” “I’m proud of the contributions the Senate has made to this comprehensive joint rules agreement that will welcome the public into our day-to-day work in a much more transparent and accessible way, while adjusting the legislative calendar and workflow to better reflect how we operate today,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Our best work on behalf of the people of Massachusetts happens when more voices are at the table, and these reforms are a positive step toward that goal. I’m deeply grateful to Majority Leader Creem and Rules Chair Lovely for their thoughtful leadership, to every Senator who contributed ideas and support, and to Speaker Mariano and our colleagues in the House for their shared commitment to joint rules that meet our current moment.” “I want to thank Senator Creem and all the members of the conference committee for their valuable contributions to this rules reform package,” said Representative Michael J. Moran (D-Boston), House Majority Leader. “These new joint rules will hopefully reduce the legislative logjam of the past and increase accessibility and participation in our legislative process.” “I am proud to have helped lead the effort, on behalf of the Senate, to reach an agreement on the Legislature's joint rules, which reflects our shared commitment to transparency and increased public participation,” said Senate Majority Leader Cindy Creem (D-Newton). “This is a meaningful step forward, made possible through close collaboration between the Senate and the House, and I am optimistic these reforms will bring greater clarity, accountability, and momentum to the work ahead.” “These updates to the joint rules will streamline legislative work to aid efficiency and allow for more public involvement in the process,” Representative William C. Galvin (D-Canton), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Rules. “Our constituents are increasingly engaging in the legislative process online, and expect ample access to information on the progress of bills. These changes make information more accessible to the public on the legislative website in real time and provide more opportunities for residents to be involved.” “I am pleased that this conference committee was able to formulate a rules package that reflects the priorities of the House and Senate by increasing transparency in the legislative process while fostering more public participation in our democracy,” said Senator Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Rules. The joint rules approved today include the following reforms: Joint committees structure and process--- · Notice time for joint committee hearings will increase from 72 hours to 10 days. Joint committees must also post a schedule of hearing dates within three weeks of committee appointments. · Hearings will be conducted jointly on all House and Senate bills, and after a bill is heard, the House or Senate Chair may unilaterally poll members of the committee from their respective branch on a bill that was filed in that branch. · Money bills filed in the Senate, constitutional amendments filed in the House, and any matters not filed by a member of the General Court will continue to be voted on by all members of a joint committee. Committee participation and votes--- · Members of the public will be able to participate remotely in joint committee hearings, as will members of the Senate. Per House rules, House Members of a joint committee cannot participate remotely and must be physically present in the hearing room. · Attendance of joint committee members at hearings posted with 10 days’ notice will be taken and available on the General Court website. · How each individual member votes on the bills being acted upon by the committee will be posted on the General Court’s website. Bill reporting deadlines--- · Joint committees will be required to report bills by the first Wednesday in December of the first year of session. · Per House Rules, House Chairs will be required to make a final report not later than 60 days after a matter is heard by the committee, but they may request an additional 30 days, at their discretion. Additional extensions must be approved by the House. House bills cannot be extended beyond the third Wednesday in March of the second year of the session. Any bill not acted upon will be ordered to a study by default. Summaries and other materials--- · Joint committees will be required to produce plain-language summaries of all bills in time for their hearings, which will be posted to the General Court’s website. · Joint committees will adopt rules making written testimony publicly available. The rules will contain limitations on the sharing of testimony including sensitive personal information, obscene content, or information that may jeopardize the health, wellness or safety of the testifier or others. Conference committees--- · The first meeting of conference committees will be open to the public. · A minimum of 24 hours of will be required between a conference committee report filing and a legislative vote. If a conference committee report is filed after 8 p.m., it cannot be voted on until the second calendar day following the day on which it was filed. Formal lawmaking--- The Legislature may meet in formal session after July 31 in the second year of the legislative session to take up the following matters: reports of conference committees formed on or before July 31; appropriation bills filed after July 31; and gubernatorial vetoes or amendments. Joint rules review--- At the end of the two-year session, the Joint Committee on Rules will conduct a comprehensive review of the joint rules. As part of the review, it will conduct a public hearing and solicit testimony from the public and other interested parties. In addition to the joint rules approved today, the House and the Senate approved their own chamber’s rules in February to govern their internal operations. ###
Fair Share Supplemental Budget agreement 6/16/2025 Voted favorably. The Fair Share supplemental budget agreement reached by the House and Senate provides $1.39 billion in new investments in education and transportation while prioritizing regional equity and maintaining fiscal responsibility in the face of federal uncertainty. The Conference Committee report bolsters our transportation infrastructure in a responsible and regionally equitable manner and provides critical support for transportation infrastructure upgrades across the MBTA system. It also supports public education initiatives, expands capacity for career technical education, addresses higher education capital infrastructure needs, and supports cities and towns statewide. The details of the investments agreed to in the Conference Committee report are outlined below. Transportation — $716 million MBTA Improvements and Infrastructure Upgrades: $535 million for improvements and transportation infrastructure upgrades across the MBTA system includes: $300 million to replenish the MBTA budget reserve. $175 million in workforce and safety funding to implement improvements recommended by the Federal Transit Administration. $40 million for MBTA physical infrastructure upgrades. $20 million for the MBTA’s low-income fare relief program. Aid For Cities and Towns: $103 million for regionally equitable, shovel-ready transportation improvements includes: $80 million for supplemental Chapter 90 aid to ensure every city and town receives funding to maintain local roads and bridges, including $40 million to help support small and rural communities by distributing funds based solely on road mileage. $16.4 million for municipally owned small bridges and culverts. $7 million for the improvement and maintenance of unpaved roads. Regional Equity in Transportation: $73 million for regional transit initiatives includes: $25 million for capital improvements to equipment and facilities at Regional Transit Authorities, which serve and connect all regions of the Commonwealth. $25 million for efforts to improve workforce recruitment and retention at the Regional Transit Authorities. $13 million for ferry infrastructure improvements. $10 million for on-demand micro-transit shuttles and Last Mile grants fostering an innovative multimodal transit system. World Cup Preparations: $5 million for transportation improvements associated with the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Education — $593.5 million Special Education: $248 million for special education costs including circuit breaker reimbursements to local school districts. Public Higher Education Deferred Maintenance: $115 million, including $10 million for lab modernization capital improvements and upgrades at community colleges, helping ensure community colleges have the needed resources to provide a first-class education to the surge of students signing up after passage of MassEducate, which provides free community college to Massachusetts residents. Career Technical Education Capital Grants: $100 million to expand capacity and accommodate additional career technical education school opportunities, including $15 million for a pilot program to support career and vocational technical annex buildings on comprehensive high school campuses. EEC Workforce, Affordability, and Quality Improvement Supports: $45 million for initiatives to support workforce, affordability and quality improvements in the early education and care sector, including $20 million for rate increases to support early education providers. Literacy Growth: $25 million for high dosage tutoring to support accelerated literacy growth and success for students in kindergarten through grade 3. Endowment Match: $20 million for the endowment incentive match program to leverage public funds to encourage private fundraising by the Commonwealth's public institutions of higher education to support accessible and affordable education programming, including $10 million for Department of Higher Education endowment incentive match and $10 million for the University of Massachusetts endowment incentive program. English Language Learning Programs: $10 million for educational grants to reduce the waitlist for services for speakers of languages other than English to learn English and subsequently help fill in-demand jobs. Holocaust Museum Boston: $10 million to support the Holocaust Museum Boston. Green Schoolworks: $10 million for grants to eligible local school districts for clean energy infrastructure improvements and upgrades. Regional School Transportation: $8.1 million to support regional school transportation costs. Tomorrow's Teachers Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness: $2.475 million for scholarships and loan forgiveness initiatives to encourage qualified high school and currently enrolled college students to seek a career pathway to teach in the Massachusetts public school system. The conference committee report is comprised of a collection of one-time revenues, including above-estimated fair share surtax collections from Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024, the Student Opportunity Act Investment Fund, and the Transitional Escrow Fund. ###
10/15/25 H.4601-An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2025 to provide for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects. Voted Favorably MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE PASSES SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET TO CLOSE FISCAL YEAR 2025 Bill addresses budget deficiencies and makes new, limited investments in health care, life sciences, and sports and entertainment BOSTON – Wednesday, October 15, 2025 – Today, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed a supplemental budget to address deficiencies, to make new necessary investments, and to close the books on Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25). The legislation appropriates $2.25 billion in gross spending, at a net cost to the state of $750 million, representing a reduction of almost $200 million from the Governor’s original proposal. “This supplemental budget closes the books on FY25, and aims to fortify the Commonwealth’s finances, bolster economic development, and ensure continued access to critical health care services,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “In the face of unrelenting attacks from the Trump Administration that will strip health insurance coverage from millions of Americans and deny access to lifesaving vaccinations, this supplemental budget will help vulnerable residents prepare for, and avoid, a lapse in coverage, and ensure continued access to vaccines for every child in Massachusetts. I want to thank Chairman Michlewitz for his hard work, and all my colleagues in the House for recognizing the importance of the investments that are included in this legislation.” “This supplemental budget will close the books on FY25 in a balanced and fiscally responsible manner. By making critical investments into much needed programs in healthcare, education, and housing to name a few, the Commonwealth will be in a strong fiscal position for FY 26 and beyond,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). “I want to thank Speaker Mariano for his dedication to these issues, as well as all my House colleagues for supporting this initiative.” The bill passed today appropriates $10 million for Health Care for All to conduct a public awareness campaign, and to conduct health coverage enrollment assistance for communities at risk of losing health care coverage as a result of the new Medicaid reporting requirements that were put in place by President Trump and Congress through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. It invests $10 million for the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, and includes $5 million in grants to reproductive health care providers. It also invests $15 million for a new Sports and Entertainment Fund grant program, for which $10 million will be set aside for the events related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The bill passed today also includes a policy section which authorizes the Department of Public Health Commissioner to determine routine childhood immunizations and vaccination schedules, rather than relying on the recommendations of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. In addition to the appropriations, the bill also invests in the state’s future by depositing the remainder of the funds to an escrow account ($337. 7 million), to support pensions ($18.8 million), and to the Other Postemployment Benefits Trust Fund ($18.8 million). Additionally, the House accepted an amendment from Chair John Lawn that updates and restructures existing assessments on Massachusetts hospitals used to fund the Health Safety Net and related hospital support trust funds. The changes modernize financial data used in the assessment, increase the amount hospitals contribute, and adjust how the resulting funds are distributed among hospitals. The bill also addresses budget deficiencies, including: • $1.67 billion in gross spending ($303 million net cost) for MassHealth • $60.7 million for snow and ice removal •$35 million for HomeBASE • $14 million for the Section 35 program • $12.5 million for no-cost calls • $12 million for Universal School Meals • $7.2 million for Department of Correction (DOC) Facilities operations • $6.8 million for the Clean Water Trust Fund • $3.5 million for State Police operations • $700,000 for the Suffolk County District Attorney The bill passed in the House of Representatives by a vote 141-14, and now goes to the Senate for its consideration.
BILL H.4187 6/4/2025 H4187 - An Act modernizing the commonwealth’s cannabis laws. Voted favorably. MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE PASSES BILL TO REFORM CANNABIS LAWS Bill clarifies regulatory structure and makes changes to facilitate industry growth BOSTON – Wednesday, June 4, 2025 – The Massachusetts House of Representatives today passed a set of reforms to the Commonwealth’s cannabis laws that would allow the cannabis industry to continue growing responsibly. The bill makes changes to the structure of the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), increases the number of retail licenses that an entity may have, lowers the barrier to entry for medical marijuana retail, increases purchase limits for consumers and patients, and addresses the selling of hemp products. “This legislation not only makes needed changes to the structure of the Cannabis Control Commission, it’s also representative of the House’s commitment to ensuring that the cannabis industry in Massachusetts is regulated in a manner that bolsters economic opportunity, especially for communities that were disproportionately impacted by the criminalization of marijuana,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Chairman Donahue for his work on this issue, as well as all my colleagues in the House for recognizing the importance of these reforms.” “This legislation will improve the CCC’s ability to effectively promote, regulate and enforce the Commonwealth’s cannabis laws, while addressing many industry concerns. I want to thank Speaker Mariano for prioritizing this bill and ensuring that early this session we are able to address concerns from the cannabis industry, consumers, and advocates,” said Representative Daniel M. Donahue (D-Worcester), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy. “The new structure will provide clear accountability and enhance the operations of the CCC, while the new ownership regulations will allow for social equity and small businesses to realize their capital, grow or pursue innovative models such as employee-owned businesses. The bill also lowers the barrier to entry to become a medical marijuana retailer, which expands patient access and creates new exclusive opportunities for social equity businesses. Importantly, this bill works to tackle a growing public health concern in the form of unregulated, synthetic and intoxicating hemp products, by banning these products and providing a regulated and safe framework in which hemp beverages can be sold in our existing alcohol licensees. With these reforms, we are working to guarantee a safer and more promising future for cannabis in the Commonwealth.” The bill passed today follows a 2022 update to cannabis laws by the Massachusetts Legislature which sought to encourage and facilitate participation in the cannabis industry from communities disproportionally harmed by marijuana criminalization by creating a Social Equity Trust Fund. That bill also strengthened the host community agreement process, clarified procedures for permitting social consumption sites, and expedited the expungement process for prior offenses that are now decriminalized. Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) The bill passed today restructures the CCC, which implements and administers cannabis laws, to increase accountability. Currently, the Governor, Treasurer and Attorney General are appointing authorities to the CCC. The bill passed today makes the Governor the sole appointing authority and requires the Chair of the CCC to serve coterminously with the Governor. The bill also clarifies the roles of the Chair and the Executive Director (ED) by defining the Chair as the administrative head of the agency and having the ED report directly to the Chair. It also reduces the number of commissioners from five full-time commissioners to one full-time Chair and two part-time commissioners. The bill maintains the CCC’s policy independence and transparency by keeping “for cause” removal protections. It requires the CCC to maintain an online portal for the submission of anonymous complaints for suspected violations by licensees, to prepare a new report on public health, and to review its current testing and workplace safety regulations to ensure that they reflect the most up-to-date standards. License Caps In an effort to allow business owners to spread overhead costs among more stores, and to provide them with the option to exit and realize their equity as the cannabis industry matures, the bill passed today incrementally raises the limit on the number of retail licenses any individual or entity may hold from three to six. The bill limits licensees to four licenses for the first two years after the law’s effective date, and five retail licenses until three years after the effective date. Priority consideration must be given to Social Equity Businesses, Minority Business Enterprises, Woman Business Enterprises, and Veteran Business Enterprises. The bill exempts from cap limitations Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Trustees and investors with less than 35 percent equity to increase opportunities for investment in cannabis businesses. The bill enhances regulatory oversight over ownership and market capacity by requiring the CCC to conduct an audit of all marijuana establishments and medical marijuana establishments to ensure compliance with cap limitations. It also requires the CCC to conduct an economic analysis of the cannabis industry and expressly grants the CCC the power to limit the total number of licenses issued. Medical Marijuana Current law requires licensed medical marijuana businesses to be vertically integrated, which means they must cultivate, manufacture, and sell medical marijuana all under a single license. The bill passed today eliminates that requirement and grants the CCC the authority to create additional license types for medical marijuana businesses. The bill also clarifies that the CCC’s power to promote equity in the adult-use cannabis program also apply to the medical marijuana program. The bill limits the issuance of newly de-integrated medical marijuana establishment licenses to Social Equity Businesses on an exclusive basis for three years, with the option for the CCC to vote to extend that period to ensure equity goals are met. Purchase Limits The bill passed today increases the purchase and possession limit from one to two ounces of marijuana and directs the CCC to establish an equivalent possession limit across product types. It also increases the possession limit that would result in a civil penalty or drug awareness programming for those under 21 from two ounces to three ounces. Hemp The bill passed today expressly enables and creates an oversight structure for the importation, manufacture, and sale of two forms of consumable federally legal hemp products: hemp beverages and consumable CBD products. Under this bill, both products may only be sold if registered with the CCC. The bill instructs the CCC to develop regulations for hemp product registration that aligns with regulations for marijuana products, including a prohibition on any product containing synthetic cannabinoids. The products may only be manufactured from concentrate that complies with federal potency limits on hemp. Requirements for hemp beverage products, which are beverages containing cannabinoids derived from hemp and may have an intoxicating effect, include: •Maximum THC per container of 5mg, minimum container size of 7.5 ounces •May only be manufactured by (1) hemp and alcohol manufacturers licensed by other states that have a certificate of compliance from the CCC, and (2) marijuana and alcohol manufacturers licensed by the CCC and ABCC respectively that have an endorsement to manufacture hemp beverages from the CCC •May only be imported or sold at wholesale or retail by ABCC licensees licensed to import or sell all alcohol at wholesale or retail Requirements for consumable CBD products, which are nonintoxicating edibles and tinctures containing cannabinoids derived from hemp, include: •May not contain more than a trace amount of THC •May only be manufactured by (1) hemp manufacturers licensed by other states that have a certificate of compliance from the CCC, and (2) marijuana manufacturers licensed by the CCC that have an endorsement to manufacture consumable hemp products from the CCC •May only be sold at wholesale or retail by entities with a DOR consumable CBD product tax license that have an endorsement to sell consumable CBD products from the CCC The bill passed the House of Representatives 153-0. It now goes to the Senate for its consideration. ###
10/8/2025 H.4240- An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2026 for the maintenance of the departments, boards, commissions, institutions and certain activities of the Commonwealth, for interest, sinking fund and serial bond requirements, and for certain permanent improvements Voted: Favorably “Tomorrow, the House will vote to override several of the Governor’s FY26 Budget vetoes — with a specific focus only on funding that is absolutely necessary to ensure that critical needs can be met across Massachusetts. Included in the overrides that the House will vote on tomorrow are investments aimed at supporting the Commonwealth’s nursing home workforce, ensuring sufficient funding for charter schools, and at bolstering the manufacturing industry as well as the greater Massachusetts economy. While the House shares the Governor’s commitment to fiscal prudence amid the Trump Administration’s devastating budget cuts, we continue to believe that the FY26 budget investments that we will vote on tomorrow can be made in a financially responsible manner. This belief is supported by the hundreds of millions of dollars in expected revenue that we set aside during conference committee negotiations, providing the Commonwealth with the necessary flexibility to manage our finances through this ongoing period of economic uncertainty.”- Representative Aaron Michlewitz (D-Boston), Chair, House Committee on Ways and Means. Here is s great description from the State House New Service on the actions taken by the House in regards to this Bill. "The chair recognized Rep. Michlewitz of Boston. Rep. Michlewitz said, Thank you Madame Speaker. Today we'll be taking up vetoes from the FY26 budget. Despite the manmade fiscal turmoil facing the commonwealth, the budget we enacted in June was fiscally responsible with a final bottom line that was $1 billion lower than the budget filed by the governor at the beginning of the year. Upon signing the budget, the governor then vetoed about $130 million in spending. While we understand our excellency the governor's actions and value the collaborative relationship fostered over the last few years, we respectfully disagree with some of these vetoes. With revenues stable so far this fiscal year, and with a large amount of money left on our balance sheet to anticipate future shocks to our system, we believe that we can afford to override the vetoes that are before you today. In total, we are proposing to override around $70 million in vetoes. Many of these items are ones that members of this House have long championed. As we progress through the fiscal year and we see how our revenue numbers continue to progress, we will continue to work with our partners in the Senate to manage the situation and respond in the most fiscally responsible manner. Madame Speaker I ask for your support, I ask for membership support on the overrides that will be placed before you today so we can bring the FY26 budget to a successful conclusion. BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 127-22, the veto was OVERRIDDEN. Time was 1:26 p.m. SEWER RATE RELIEF: Question came whether to override or sustain the governor's veto in line item 1231-1000 (DOR Commonwealth Sewer Rate Relief Fund), which was reduced by $1,500,000, to $0. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am vetoing this item to an amount consistent with my House 1 recommendation." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 141-10, the veto was OVERRIDDEN. Time was 1:31 p.m. PARKS AND REC: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 2810-0100 (State Parks and Recreation), which was reduced by $400,000, to $113,420,049. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am reducing this item to the amount projected to be necessary given the availability of alternative resources." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 150-3, the veto was OVERRIDDEN. FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 4000-0051 (Family Resource Centers), which was reduced by $500,000, to $0. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am vetoing this item to be consistent with my House 1 recommendation. Sufficient alternative resources are available at DCF Family Resource Centers (4800-0200)." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 132-22, VETO OVERRIDDEN. NURSING HOME RATES: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 4000-0641 (MassHealth Nursing Home Supplemental Rates), which was reduced by $25 million, to $625,073,456. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am striking language that earmarks funding for a program expansion, and I am reducing this item to an amount consistent with my House 1 recommendation, which reflects $102 million gross for increased nursing home rates." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 154-0, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 1:45 p.m. SERVICES FOR THE BLIND: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 4110-1000 (Community Services for the Blind), which was reduced by $300,000, to $8,864,721. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am reducing this item to the amount projected to be necessary. This reduction is not expected to impact planned programming." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 153-0, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 1:50 p.m. SUBSTANCE ADDICTION SERVICES: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 4512-0200 (Bureau of Substance Addiction Services), which was reduced by $2.5 million, to $184,677,798. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am reducing this item to the amount projected to be necessary to support continued programming. This operating funding overlaps with significant alternative funding sources to support expansions in low-threshold housing units and related supports." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 146-8, VETO OVERRIDDEN. SILENT TRIBUTE: Hogan banged the gavel and said, At the request of myself and Rep. Kushmerek, would the members, employees and guests stand in a moment of silent tribute for Bolton's Chief of Police Luke Hamburger, who died unexpectedly on Sunday. The House stood in a moment of silence. EARLY INTERVENTION: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 4513-1020 (Early Intervention Services), which was reduced by $1,530,735, to $37,719,649. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am reducing this item to align with current utilization trends." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 139-16, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 2:01 p.m. CAREER TECH: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 7002-1091 (Career Technical Institutes), which was reduced by $250,000, to $8,985,600. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am reducing this item to an amount consistent with my House 1 recommendation." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 141-13, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 2:05 p.m. MANUFACTURING EXTENSION: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 7003-0606 (Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership), which was reduced by $2 million, to $0. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am vetoing this item to an amount consistent with my House 1 recommendation and due to the availability of alternative resources that support manufacturing." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 141-14, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 2:09 p.m. SHELTER WORKFORCE: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 7004-0109 (Shelter Workforce Assistance), which was reduced by $5 million, to $5 million. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am reducing this item because it is not consistent with my House 1 recommendation. This funding was established as a one-time support associated with recent caseload increases. As the Administration continues to work towards a more sustainable shelter system, this is the amount projected to be necessary." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 131-24, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 2:12 p.m. HOUSING SERVICES: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 7004-3036 (Housing Services and Counseling), which was reduced by $500,000, to $5,350,000. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am reducing this item to the amount projected to be necessary. Funding for this account increased significantly during the pandemic. This reduced level better aligns with current demand." Rep. Diggs came to the rostrum and said, Hello everybody, I have Mary LeClair A.K.A. Mercy Otis Warren, she's dressed up as Mercy Otis Warren, former treasurer and commissioner of Barnstable. Mercy helped write the Bill of Rights and was born in Barnstable and retired in Plymouth. We want to get a statue put in the State House for Mercy Otis Warren. On behalf of Mercy Otis Warren, here's Mary LeClair. Members applauded. BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 131-24, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 2:16 p.m. REGIONAL ECO DEV: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 7007-0150 (Regional Economic Development Grants), which was reduced by $1 million, to $0. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am vetoing this item following a reevaluation of needs and resources after filing my House 1 recommendation." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 153-2, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 2:23 p.m. CHARTER SCHOOLS: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 7061-9010 (Charter School Reimbursement), which was reduced by $19,898,807, to $179,089,258. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am reducing this item to an amount consistent with my House 1 recommendation. Given historic fluctuations in enrollment, my Administration will continue to monitor needs over the course of the fiscal year." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 155-0, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 2:29 p.m. TUFTS VETERINARY PROGRAM: Question came on overriding the governor's veto in line item 7077-0023 (Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine Program), which was reduced by $700,000, to $5,500,000. In her veto message, Gov. Healey wrote: "I am reducing this item to an amount consistent with my House 1 recommendation." BY A ROLL CALL VOTE OF 148-7, VETO OVERRIDDEN. Time was 2:35 p.m. SEN. KENNEDY OF LOWELL: Rep. Hogan asked, at the request of Reps. Howard, Elliot, Hong, Garry and Scarsdale, for members and staff stand in a moment of silence in memory of Senator Edward J. Kennedy of Lowell. The House stood in a moment of silence. At 2:37 p.m. Rep. Hogan said, The chair does not anticipate any further roll calls this afternoon. Some members began leaving the chamber. ADJOURNMENT ORDER: The House adopted a Rep. Mariano of Quincy order calling for the next session to be held tomorrow at 11 a.m. MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT: The House adopted a Reps. Howard, Elliot and Hong of Lowell motion that the House adjourn in respect to the memory of Edward J. Kennedy Jr. ADJOURNS: The House adjourned at 2:51 p.m. to meet next on Thursday at 11 a.m. in an informal session."
9/17/25 H.4530- An Act making appropriations for fiscal year 2025 to provide for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects
S2575 - An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2025 to provide for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects 7/31/2025 Voted favorably. Legislature Sends Midyear Supplemental Budget to Governor Legislation protects students, strengthens the Massachusetts public defense system, and funds food security (BOSTON–7/31/2025) The Massachusetts State Legislature today passed a $259 million supplemental budget, S.2575, that provides midyear funding for ongoing state priorities and includes important provisions to protect students, strengthen the Massachusetts public defense system, and fund vital services for residents. This legislation provides critical funding for the Healthy Incentive Program (HIP)—which provides healthy fresh food to residents while benefiting Massachusetts farmers—as well as for extraordinary Emergency Medical Services (EMS) costs across the state and upgrading Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) benefits technology through the conversion to chip cards. It also responsibly addresses the ongoing work stoppage among private bar advocates and bolsters our Commonwealth’s public defense system. “Despite chaos at the federal level, the Massachusetts Legislature remains committed to delivering important services to our residents and communities, ensuring our bills are paid, practicing fiscal responsibility, and maintaining access to justice for all,” stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “I would like to commend Chair Rodrigues and Chair Michlewitz and the conferees for finalizing this supplemental budget, and thank my Senate colleagues and our House partners for ensuring we get this legislation to the Governor’s desk.” “This supplemental budget addresses timely issues through key, targeted investments. Critically, it provides for a significant raise for the bar advocates, and takes steps to ensure that the Commonwealth will no longer be over-reliant on the bar advocates by increasing the budget for the Committee for Public Counsel Services by $40 million, allowing them to hire over 300 new public defenders,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “Additionally, amid President Trump’s dismantling of the Department of Education, and amid sweeping cuts at the federal level to programs that millions of Americans rely on, this supplemental budget makes key investments that will ensure continued funding for state programs that support many of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable residents. I want to thank Chairman Michlewitz and Assistant Majority Leader Peisch for their work on this legislation, as well as all my colleagues in the House and our partners in the Senate for their support for these vital investments.” “I’m pleased that, after a productive and deliberative process, the conference committee has come to a consensus agreement on the midyear supplemental budget. This agreement is focused on balancing fiscal responsibility amid ongoing uncertainty, paying the bills, and upholding our Constitutional obligation to ensure indigent defendants have access to legal representation,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Covering $259 million in total spending, the plan provides necessary funding for home care services for adults, extraordinary EMS costs, the state’s Healthy Incentive Program, and bolsters the state’s public defense workforce. I thank my fellow conferees, and Chair Michlewitz, for their commitment to getting this important legislation finalized.” “This supplemental budget makes timely investments that will better position the Commonwealth in the weeks and months ahead. It also seeks invest a combined total of $95M in resources toward indigent defense, which will hopefully lead to a stronger and more stable criminal justice system in the Commonwealth,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz (D-Boston), Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means. “I want to thank the Speaker and my colleagues in the House for their support on this matter. I also want to thank my counterpart. Senator Rodrigues, for his commitment to reaching a final product on this matter.” The agreement on private bar advocates included in the legislation provides for sustainable rate increases for these advocates while being mindful of continuing fiscal and federal uncertainty. It also shifts a greater share of the work burden from the private bar to state public defenders by providing increased resources to the Committee on Public Counsel Services (CPCS). Details of this agreement are outlined below: •Improving the State Public Defender Workforce. With $40 million for CPCS, the state public defender agency, will be able to more than double its existing workforce. These resources will allow CPCS to hire approximately 320 new public defenders by the end of Fiscal Year 2027. Increasing the proportion of indigent clients represented by public defenders—as opposed to private bar advocates, who are independent contractors—will help stabilize the public defense system in Massachusetts. •Timely Representation for Defendants. This agreement ensures that clients are given access to counsel in a timely manner. It requires that CPCS prioritize the hiring of public defenders serving areas with unrepresented individuals awaiting counsel assignment. That includes counties with a recent history of private bar advocate work stoppages. •Fiscally Responsible Rate Increases. The agreement sustainably increases rates for private bar counsel by $20 per hour over a period of two years, an increase of more than 30 per cent for district court rates. Beginning on August 1, 2025, the annualized rate of pay for private bar counsel would range from $150,000 to $260,000, increasing to $170,000 to $280,000 beginning August 1, 2026. •Minimizing Disruptions. A series of measures will minimize future disruptions, recognizing the government’s Constitutional duty to provide legal representation to indigent defendants and protect the integrity of the overall justice system. All contractual agreements for the appointment of private counsel will need to prescribe requirements for minimum coverage and availability; private counsel contractual agreements must be renewed biannually; and an agreement among private bar advocates to refuse to compete for or accept new appointments or assignments unless the rates of pay are increased will constitute evidence of a violation of the Commonwealth’s antitrust laws, consistent with federal precedent. •Independent, Non-Partisan Oversight. The Inspector General (IG) will examine the utilization of public defense and review the billing practices, procedures, and oversight of private bar advocates. This report, which will ensure integrity in our indigent defense system, is due back to the Legislature by June 30, 2026. As legislation designed to ensure the Commonwealth’s bills are paid, the midyear supplemental budget puts forward $259 million in spending, including: •$60 million for Home Care Services •$43 million for Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) •$15.5 million for increasing the security of Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards by transitioning to chip cards •$10 million for extraordinary cost reimbursements in the EMS system, with $5 million specifically dedicated to the communities impacted by the closure of Nashoba Valley Medical Center •$7.5 million for the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), which both strengthens food security for residents and supports Massachusetts farmers in the face of federal funding cuts •$6 million for veterans’ benefits •$4 million for the Massachusetts State Police (MSP) crime lab •$1 million for the Fair Housing Fund. The legislation also ratifies several collective bargaining agreements. The final legislation also includes a series of provisions that codify certain federal protections for English language learners (ELL) and ELL students with disabilities that might be in jeopardy under the Trump Administration, ensuring the Commonwealth protects the right to public education for these students during this uncertain time. This includes the long-time guarantee of public education to children regardless of their immigration status. Both chambers of the Legislature having voted to enact the midyear supplemental budget, the legislation will now be sent to the Governor for her signature. ###
H2726 - An Act requiring human trafficking recognition training for certain hospitality workers 7/30/2025 Voted favorably. MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE PASSES BILL TO BETTER IDENTIFY AND PREVENT HUMAN TRAFFICKING Bill will require training for hotel staff to identify human trafficking, raise awareness BOSTON – Wednesday, July 30, 2025 – In an effort to identify and prevent human trafficking, the Massachusetts House of Representatives today passed legislation that requires lodging facilities, such as hotels, motels, lodging houses, and bed-and-breakfasts, to require their employees to participate in a human trafficking recognition training program. The bill also requires these facilities to post in plain view in the lobby or common area, and in any public restroom, a written notice developed by the Attorney General, which should include the national human trafficking hotline number. “One of the primary responsibilities that we have as elected officials is to ensure the safety of our constituents. This legislation provides the tools necessary for our hospitality workers to identify and prevent human trafficking, ultimately saving lives and increasing public safety,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Chairman Cahill and Chairman Walsh for advocating for this legislation, as well as all my colleagues in the House for recognizing the importance of these efforts.” “Human trafficking is a heinous crime that often hides in plain sight. By equipping frontline hotel employees with the tools and training to recognize the signs, we are taking a critical step toward prevention and early intervention,” said Representative Dan Cahill (D-Lynn), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security. “This legislation sends a clear message that Massachusetts is committed to protecting vulnerable individuals and holding traffickers accountable.” “I’ve seen firsthand how human traffickers exploit the I-95 corridor, using hotels to transport and harm victims. This afternoon, we took a meaningful step forward to eradicate the crime of human trafficking, uphold human dignity, and ensure justice and protection for victims. I appreciate the cooperation and collaboration of the lodging industry, hospitality workers' union, law enforcement, and survivor advocates in crafting this bill”, said Representative Thomas P. Walsh (D-Peabody), sponsor of the bill. “I am grateful for the leadership of Speaker Mariano on this important cause and to Chair Michlewitz, Chair Cahill, and Division Chair González for their efforts in preparing this legislation for today’s vote.” In 2024, there were 288 signals received by the National Human Trafficking Hotline from Massachusetts, out of which 91 were from victims or survivors of human trafficking. There were 115 human trafficking cases identified in Massachusetts in 2024, which involved 326 victims, according to the National Human Trafficking Hotline. The training program for lodging employees required by this bill must be approved by the Attorney General and provided by an organization or provider from a list approved by the AG. The program must include training on: the nature of human trafficking; how human trafficking is defined under Massachusetts or federal law; and how to identify victims of human trafficking. The bill passed the House of Representatives 158-0 and now goes to the Senate for its consideration. ###
H2932 - An Act relative to benefits for teachers 7/30/2025 Voted favorably. MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE PASSES BILL EXTENDING BENEFETIS FOR RETIRED TEACHERS Bill extends retirement benefits for teachers who go into second careers in education state agencies BOSTON – Wednesday, July 30, 2025 – The House of Representatives today passed legislation that would extend benefits for retired teachers who are then hired to work for the Massachusetts Executive Office of Education (EOE) and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The bill would allow those employees to retain the status of “teacher” and remain in the Teachers’ Retirement System. “As a former public school teacher, I know the incredible impact that teachers can have on our students’ lives, and the value that they can bring to administrative positions given their experience as educators. That’s why it’s so important that we ensure that former teachers who choose to serve in administrative roles at EOE and DESE remain in the Teachers' Retirement System, ensuring that they do not experience an interruption in their membership or service,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Leader Peisch, Chairman Ryan, and Representative Consalvo for their work on this issue, as well as all my colleagues in the House for recognizing the importance of these reforms.” “I want to take the opportunity to thank Speaker Mariano, Leader Peisch, Chair Gordon, and Representative Consalvo, for all their hard work and advocacy on this bill. The legislation presents a fairness issue. A common-sense approach to fixing a long overdue matter for those who educate the children of the commonwealth. The bill will allow teachers who enrolled in a retirement system before July 1, 2001, the same rights as those who enrolled after that date,” said Representative Daniel J. Ryan (D-Boston), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Public Service. “Today’s bill allows those teachers, who were not enrolled in the R+ program in 2001, for whatever reason, an opportunity to now buy into the very same program, which would have been the case had the system worked correctly.” “I am once again pleased that the House has advanced this important legislation,” said Representative Alice Hanlon Peisch (D-Wellesley), Assistant Majority Leader and sponsor of the bill. “I introduced this bill after being approached by educators in my district—dedicated public servants who brought forward a serious and deeply personal concern. It quickly became evident that this was not an isolated incident, but an issue affecting educators across the Commonwealth. I am hopeful that this language advances through the legislative process in a timely manner, so that these individuals may receive the retirement benefits they have rightfully earned through years of service.” "Many thanks to the Speaker, the Chairs and all my colleagues for supporting this very important legislation,” said Representative Rob Consalvo (D-Boston), a sponsor of the bill. “Our action will support hundreds of educators from my District, and all across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, by correcting this inequity once and for all." The change that this bill makes applies to teachers who are vested in the Massachusetts Teachers' Retirement System, or in the Boston Retirement System, and are subsequently employed by EOE or DESE. Employees of EOE or DESE who are members of the state employees’ retirement system, and who are reinstated in the Teachers' Retirement System or the Boston Retirement System because of the passage of this bill, would not be deemed to have had an interruption of membership or service. Upon reinstatement, the member must pay into the annuity savings fund of the Teachers' Retirement System or the Boston Retirement System. The bill also mandates that a reinstated member be entered into the state employees’ retirement system as a Group 1 state employee upon retirement. The bill passed today also establishes a new one-time opportunity to elect to participate in the alternative superannuation retirement benefit program for active or inactive members of the Teachers' Retirement System who: are a teacher or school nurse; became eligible for membership before July 1, 2001; began contributing to the Teachers' Retirement System before July 1, 2001; and did not provide a written election to participate or held a good faith belief that they elected to participate in the alternative superannuation retirement benefit program to the Teachers' Retirement System before July 1, 2001 nor at any other time prior to September 1, 2025. Having passed the House of Representatives 158-0 the bill now goes to the Senate for its consideration. ###
Expanded Chapter 90 funding 7/23/2025 Voted favorably. MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE AUTHORIZES EXPANDED CHAPTER 90 FUNDING Bill makes investments in roads, bridges, and public transportation BOSTON – Wednesday, July 23, 2025 – The Massachusetts House of Representatives today passed a bill that includes $1.2 billion in bonding for an expanded Chapter 90 Program, and for transportation programs that will address regional needs and the impacts of climate change on local infrastructure. The Chapter 90 Program provides municipalities with a funding source for transportation-related improvements, including road and bridge repairs. The bill includes a one-year authorization of $300 million for the Chapter 90 Program, a 50 percent increase over past funding levels. The bill also appropriates $885 million in funding for three critical programs, funding that will help to ensure that the Commonwealth is able to achieve its long-term transportation goals “Providing funding for critical infrastructure projects through investments in the Commonwealth’s public transportation, roads, and bridges is one of the most important responsibilities that we have as members of the Legislature,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I’m proud of the support for local infrastructure repairs that this legislation provides, and of the funding that it allocates for projects that will address congestion hotspots across the Commonwealth. I want to thank Chairman Arciero, Chairman Finn, and all my colleagues in the House for supporting this vital legislation.” “The federal funding uncertainty from Washington, D.C is very real. The House is proceeding with caution while balancing the significant transportation needs of our cities and towns,” said Representative James Arciero (D-Westford), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation. "I want to thank House Speaker Mariano and Chairman Aaron Michlewitz for their leadership. This bill leverages the Legislature’s increased appropriations to the Commonwealth Transportation Fund. These strategic appropriations expanded our borrowing capacity to allow for additional transportation funding for cities and towns.” "This legislation strikes a balance between increasing funding for municipal roadways and transportation-related projects while maintaining outstanding fiscal responsibility,” said Representative Michael Finn (D-West Springfield), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets. “Our decision to continue giving the Governor the authority to utilize either general or special obligation bonds enables us to capitalize on competitive interest rates, save money long term, and preserve general obligation bond capacity for the Commonwealth's most pressing needs." The legislation authorizes $1.2 billion in bonding for the Chapter 90 Program, and for three additional programs as well. The one-year authorization in Chapter 90 Program funding represents a historic 50 percent increase and includes: •$200 million to be distributed to all municipalities based on the standard Chapter 90 Program distribution formula. •$100 million will be distributed to all municipalities based solely on road mileage. Additional programs to support various transportation-related projects include: •$500 million for the Lifecycle Asset Management Program (LAMP), which supports non-federally aided roads and targets the pavement and bridges that are in the worst condition in the Commonwealth. •$200 million for a culvert and small bridge repair program to aid municipalities for local culverts and small bridges under 20 feet that are in a state of disrepair or require replacement. •$185 million for capital projects to reduce congestion hotspots, funding that will be available for a myriad of projects such as shared use paths, intersection improvements, railroad grade crossings, and sidewalks. Having passed the House of Representatives 156-0, the bill now goes to the Senate for consideration. ###
Shield Act 7/16/2025 Voted favorably. Massachusetts House Passes Bill Safeguarding Reproductive and Gender Affirming Health Care Services Legislation shields patient data, protects providers, and preserves access to vital health care services (BOSTON- 07/16/2025) Today, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed legislation that preserves and protects access for individuals and practitioners engaging in personal health care activities in the Commonwealth. The bill, H.4271 An Act strengthening health care protections in the Commonwealth strengthens the abilities of individuals who are making decisions about their own reproductive and gender affirming health care services. "As the Trump Administration and Republicans across the country continue to target individuals for exercising their right to make their own health care decisions in consultation with their doctor, this legislation is representative of the House’s commitment to preserving that fundamental right,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “The Shield Act builds on the Commonwealth’s proud history of preserving and expanding access to reproductive and gender-affirming care by establishing new safeguards around patient data, and by protecting health care professionals who provide that vital care. I want to thank Chair Michlewitz, Chair Day, and all my colleagues in the House for their commitment to protecting the rights of our residents.” “Massachusetts has led the way time and again to reaffirm our commitment to keeping reproductive health care safe and available to all. With this care under attack from the Trump administration, further protecting people seeking reproductive or gender affirming care has never been more crucial,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). “I want to thank the Speaker for his commitment to this issue, as well as Chair Day, and all my House colleagues for their work and dedication to keeping Massachusetts a leader in reproductive and gender affirming care.” This legislation clarifies protections for both patients and healthcare providers in the face of a growing wave of attacks from other states on protected health care activities in Massachusetts. The bill clarifies data protections, codifies the provision of emergency services for individuals, and provides Massachusetts courts and agencies with the tools required to protect both patients and practitioners engaging in reproductive and gender affirming healthcare services. Several states have recently passed laws restricting reproductive health care and access to gender affirming health care in their own boundaries while, at the same time, attempting to prosecute individuals who seek those personal health care services in Massachusetts. “When patients and doctors engage in legal healthcare activities here in Massachusetts, they will have the peace of mind that their personal information will remain private and that their constitutional rights remain protected rights,” said State Representative Michael S. Day, House Chair of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary. “Massachusetts will always protect and preserve the constitutional and civil rights of our people to make their own healthcare decisions, especially in the face of political crusades of the federal government and the misguided efforts of other states seeking to interfere with those decisions made here.” Building on protections first enshrined into law in 2022, this legislation prohibits state agencies, employees and law enforcement from cooperating with other states or federal investigations into reproductive or gender affirming health care that is legally protected in Massachusetts. The bill similarly restricts businesses that manage electronic health records from sharing patient data connected to these services. The bill makes clear that health care professionals are free to provide legal health care services in Massachusetts, and the Commonwealth will resist attempts by other states or the federal government to prosecute health care professionals for providing those services. Additionally, the bill: ● Exempts the personally identifying information of patients and providers regarding reproductive and gender affirming health care from the public records law. ● Requires hospitals to provide stabilizing health care services to patients presenting with emergency medical conditions. ● Empowers the Department of Public Health to remove drugs prescribed in connection with reproductive or gender affirming health care from the prescription monitoring program (PMP) and prohibits the Department from sharing PMP information sought by other states in connection with legally protected health care activities in the Commonwealth. ● Prohibits the state’s Center for Health Information and Analysis and the Health Connector from providing information to other entities, states, or the federal government regarding legally protected health care activities in Massachusetts, and forbids entities working with these agencies from using data collected to target patients or providers. ● Protects attorneys licensed in Massachusetts from removal or discipline for advising or representing clients on the topics of reproductive or transgender health care services. ● Forbids insurance companies from discriminating against or penalizing nonprofits who offer reproductive and gender affirming health care services. ● Prohibits courts from using the laws of other states prohibiting gender affirming care as grounds to alter custody or visitation rights for children in Massachusetts. ● Clarifies that Boards of Registration may not take disciplinary actions against practitioners for providing legally protected health care services, and prohibits boards from noting in a provider’s records any criminal, legal or disciplinary actions brought against them in other jurisdictions for providing health care services that are legally protected in the Commonwealth. Having passed the House 136-23, the bill now goes back to the State Senate for further consideration.
BILL H.4001 5/22/2025 H4001 - An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2026 for the maintenance of the departments, boards, commissions, institutions, and certain activities of the commonwealth, for interest, sinking fund, and serial bond requirements, and for certain permanent improvements Voted favorably. MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE PASSES FY25 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET, PROTECTS RIGHTS OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS AND STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES Bill allocates funding to ensure continuation of state programs BOSTON – Wednesday, May 21, 2025 – The Massachusetts House of Representatives today passed a $537 million Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) supplemental budget that provides funding to ensure the continuation of state programs such as child care financial assistance, home care services, emergency funding for housing, and food access initiatives, as well as municipal grants for the 250th anniversary of the American independence. The bill has a net cost to the state of $325 million after offsets. During its debate, the House adopted an amendment offered by Representative Alice Peisch (D-Wellesley), Assistant Majority Leader, that codifies into law the rights of English Language Learners (ELL) and students with disabilities, ensuring that these students receive both English language development and Special Education (SPED) services in a coordinated, culturally and linguistically appropriate manner, regardless of school district or demographic. The amendment also prohibits discrimination in public schools based on immigration or citizenship status, or disability. “Amid President Trump’s dismantling of the Department of Education, and amid sweeping cuts at the federal level to programs that millions of Americans rely on, this supplemental budget makes key investments that will ensure continued funding for state programs that support many of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable residents,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I’m grateful to Chairman Michlewitz and Assistant Majority Leader Peisch for their work on this bill, as well as all my colleagues in the House for their commitment to ensuring that Trump’s damaging actions are met with steady leadership here in Massachusetts.” “This supplemental budget will fund critical programs such as childcare financial assistance, home care services, and food insecurity that require immediate attention,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz (D-Boston), Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means. “I want to thank Speaker Mariano, Leader Peisch as well as all my colleagues in the House for their work and dedication to the items contained in in this bill.” “This is a strong step toward ensuring English learners are fairly evaluated and appropriately supported in special education,” said Representative Alice Peisch (D-Wellesley), Assistant Majority Leader. “This will help ensure our English Language Learners students receive the same opportunities to succeed as every other student.” Current law does not explicitly define the rights or service requirements for students who are both ELLs and have disabilities, and instead, the current framework relies on regulatory and federal guidance, which can create uncertainty and inconsistency in how schools identify, evaluate and serve those students. By codifying practices into law, the House is ensuring that special education students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) who are also English learners in Massachusetts are protected— regardless of a potential federal shift in guidelines or regulations. The amendment passed today: · Requires the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to ensure meaningful communication between school personnel and the parents or legal guardians of all students who are receiving educational services, ensuring that interpreters and translators who work in public school settings meet certain expertise and training requirements. · Requires school districts to address any academic deficits resulting from time spent on English language acquisition programs within a reasonable amount of time. · Prohibits school districts from recommending that parents decline services within an English learner program for any reason, including facilitating scheduling of special education services or other scheduling reasons. · Requires school committees, when conducting an IEP evaluation for a child who is an English learner, to consider the child’s proficiency in English. o Assessments must be administered in the child’s primary language. o An IEP team for an English learner must include participants who have knowledge of the student’s language needs and other expertise in second language acquisitions and the needs of students with disabilities. o IEP team must ensure that the IEP includes services to meet the English language and special education needs of a child. · Requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to promulgate regulations related to placements in alternative education settings; and to make updates to regulations consistent with the new requirements in this act. Funding allocations in the FY25 supplemental budget include: · $189 million for child care financial assistance · $134 million for the Medical Assistance Trust Fund · $60 million for Home Care Services · $42.9 million for Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program · $15.5 million for EBT care replacements · $15 million in grants to support municipal celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the American independence · $7.5 million for Healthy Incentive Program Last week, the Legislature passed, and the Governor signed into law an additional $240 million for the Group Insurance Commission (GIC), which provides health insurance and other benefits to the Commonwealth’s employees and retirees, and their families. Outside sections in the bill include policy changes related to Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV), donations to Veterans’ Homes, and the ratification of collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). The supplemental budget passed the House of Representatives 149-1 and now goes to the Senate for its consideration. ###
BILL H.4000 4/30/2025 H4000 - An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2026 for the maintenance of the departments, boards, commissions, institutions, and certain activities of the commonwealth, for interest, sinking fund, and serial bond requirements, and for certain permanent improvements. Voted favorably. MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE PASSES FY26 BUDGET, INVESTS IN PROGRAMS THAT SUPPORT FAMILIES ACROSS MASSACHUSETTS Highlights include a record investment in the MBTA, local aid increases in education, and continued funding for universal school meals BOSTON – Wednesday, April 30, 2025 – Today, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed its Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget. Funded at $61.47 billion, nearly $500 million below Governor Maura Healey’s budget proposal, the House’s FY26 budget responds to the needs of residents, provides strong support for the Commonwealth’s cities and towns, and among many critical investments, includes significant funding for education, transportation, health care, housing, and workforce development. “The House’s FY26 budget makes key investments that better support Massachusetts students and families, that increase access to affordable health care, and that provide for a safer and more reliable public transportation system – all without raising taxes. In a moment of incredible uncertainty at the federal level, our budget is proof that government can be both fiscally responsible and an agent of good, the kind of government that our residents deserve,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Chairman Michlewitz and the House Committee on Ways and Means for working diligently to craft a budget that delivers results for our constituents, as well as all my colleagues in the House for their valued input.” “This budget builds off the successes of the last few years by prioritizing our residents. Whether it is greater investments into programs like housing stability, public transportation, or early education these initiatives are a reflection of our shared values,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). “By reinvesting in the people of the Commonwealth we will continue make our economy more competitive and equitable for years to come. I want to thank Speaker Mariano for his leadership during this budget process, as well as my Vice-Chairs Ann-Margaret Ferrante and Kipp Diggs, and the entire membership of the House for their thoughts and guidance over the last few months to make this a more successful and well-rounded budget.” Due to responsible fiscal management, the House’s FY26 budget is balanced, and makes significant investments across several issue areas, without needing to include new taxes or tax increases nor drawing from the Stabilization Fund, which is set to reach $8.36 billion. "At a time when our partnership with the federal government is uncertain, the House recommitted to the values that make Massachusetts a leader in the nation, producing a fiscally responsible and balanced budget that meets the moment," said Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante (D-Gloucester), Vice Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means. "With investments to strengthen public education, promote economic and workforce development, and support public education, this budget reinforces our long-term competitiveness and works to make sure that Massachusetts remains a place where families and businesses can grow and thrive. I want to thank Speaker Mariano and Chair Michlewitz for their steady leadership throughout this process." “It was an honor to travel all over the Commonwealth with the Committee on Ways and Means these past weeks and hear the budgetary concerns and priorities of Bay Staters everywhere,” said Representative Kip A. Diggs (D-Barnstable), Assistant Vice Chair, House Committee on Ways and Means. “I am grateful to Speaker Mariano for appointing me Assistant Vice Chair of the committee and am very proud of the FY26 budget that we have produced, especially given all the uncertainty generated by Washington.” The budget that passed today includes $1.95 billion in investments for transportation and education initiatives made possible because funding generated by the Fair Share ballot initiative that voters approved in November of 2022, which established a surtax of 4 percent on annual income above $1 million. House’s FY26 Fair Share Investments EducationTransportation Child Care Grants to Providers$360 millionCTF Transfer to MBTA $450 million Minimum Per Pupil Aid$240 millionMBTA Academy$40 million Universal School Meals$190 millionMBTA Water Transportation Grants$10 million Free Community College$94 millionCTF Transfer to RTA$110 million Financial Aid Expansion$80 millionCTF for Debt Service and Additional Bonding Capacity$100 million Childcare Supports$53 millionCTF Transfer to the Mass Transportation Trust Fund$55 million School Transportation Reimbursements$50 million MassReconnect$24 million Green SchoolWorks$20 million Income Eligible Waitlist$15 million Early Literacy$15 million State University SUCCESS$14 million State University Funding Formula$10.5 million Targeted Scholarships$10 million Community Colleges Funding Formula$9.5 million TOTAL$1.185 billionTOTAL$765 million Local Aid and Education The FY26 House budget funds Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) at $1.308 billion, and Chapter 70 education funding at $7.121 billion, representing a $257.2 million increase over the FY25 budget. The budget also funds the fifth year of a six-year implementation plan for the Student Opportunity Act (SOA), which was enacted in 2019 to ensure that public schools have the necessary resources to provide high-quality education to students, regardless of zip code or income level. The budget provides an additional $120 per pupil in minimum aid supplements, increasing the minimum aid total to $150 per pupil. Additionally, the budget includes the following education initiatives: •$483.2 million for Circuit Breaker Special Education reimbursement •$199 million for 100 percent charter school reimbursement •$122.1 million for regional school transportation •$28.7 million for homeless student transportation The House’s FY26 budget continues to fully fund universal free school meals for every public-school student in the Commonwealth. Massachusetts is one of only six states in the country that mandate district participation for free school meals for all students, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Additionally, the House’s FY26 budget establishes a 15-member vocational school admissions task force to review admissions policies and standards of review. This budget also prohibits the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) from promulgating new regulations, and from amending regulations, until the completion of a report by the task force. Public Transportation The House budget includes a record investment of $687 million for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), as well as $204 million for the Regional Transit Authorities that serve commuters across Massachusetts. These investments include: •$637 million operating transfer to the MBTA, including funds for reduced MBTA fares for riders with low incomes •$204 million to support operations and transit improvements at the state’s 15 Regional Transit Authorities •$40 million to create an MBTA Academy to support recruiting and training efforts, and to establish a pipeline for a skilled workforce across departments •$10 million for grants for ferry services Early Education and Care Continuing the House’s longstanding commitment towards investing in the early education and care (EEC) workforce, the House budget includes $1.67 billion, $126.3 million more than FY25, to sustain recent rate increases and other historic investments in child care access and affordability across the Commonwealth in FY26. Other early education and care investments include: •$475 million for Commonwealth Cares for Children (C3) grants •$448.2 million for child care for children involved with the Department of Children & Families and the Department of Transitional Assistance •$517.6 million for child care for low-income families •$15 million to reduce the income-eligible waitlist •$20 million for child care resource and referral agencies •$18.5 million for Head Start grants •$7.5 million for an EEC educator scholarship program •$7.5 million for an EEC educator loan forgiveness program Higher Education The House budget allocates $838 million for the University of Massachusetts system, $416 million for community colleges, and $409 million for state universities. Other higher education investments include: •$255.2 million for scholarships •$14 million for the Community College SUCCESS program •$14 million for the State University SUCCESSS program •$10 million for a new UMass system SUCCESS program •$14.2 million for the Early College Initiative •$13.1 million for the Dual Enrollment Partnership Affordable and Accessible Housing The FY26 budget maintains the House’s commitment to protect renters and homeowners across the Commonwealth from eviction and homelessness by investing in the following programs: •$275 million for the Emergency Assistance (EA) program, which provides shelter to families with children and pregnant women •$258.1 million for the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP) •$207.5 million for Rental Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program •$57.3 million for HomeBase •$10 million for shelter workforce assistance •$8.4 million for the Home and Healthy for Good program, including $500,000 for the Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance The House budget makes rent more affordable for tenants or prospective tenants by prohibiting a real estate broker from charging a broker’s fee (commission or other fee) to a tenant or prospective tenant for finding an apartment to lease or rent if the tenant did not initiate contact with the broker. The budget only allows fees to be paid by a tenant or prospective tenant if all the following requirements are met: the tenant or prospective tenant initiated the contact with the broker; the tenant or prospective tenant received a rental brokerage fee disclosure from the broker; and the tenant or prospective tenant agreed to all terms and conditions of the brokerage fee disclosure in writing. Workforce Development The House budget funds the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development at $113.4 million. Additionally, it invests in the following initiatives: •$58.9 million for Adult Basic Education Services •$20.9 million for Labor and Workforce Development Shared Services •$18.9 million for DTA Employment and Training Services •$15.2 million for Summer Jobs for At Risk Youth •$9 million for Career Technical Institutes •$10 million for the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund •$8.3 million for One Stop Career Centers •$6.5 million for School-to-Career Connecting Activities •$3.3 million for Registered Apprenticeship Expansion •$3.1 for Career and Technical Education Grants Energy and Environmental Affairs The House’s budget invests $505.4 million in Energy and Environmental Affairs, including: •$163.4 million for the Department of Conservation and Recreation •$85.3 million for the Department of Environmental Protection •$67.2 million for the Department of Agricultural Resources •$63.4 million for the Clean Water Trust The House budget also includes a $25 million transfer to the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, and $20 million in continued support for Green SchoolWorks program to decarbonize and increase efficiency in our schools through green energy projects. It also includes a $14 million transfer to the Disaster Relief and Resiliency Fund, which was created last year for permanent emergency disaster relief from natural disasters or other catastrophic events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, landslides, extreme winds, and extreme temperatures. Health and Human Services The House budget includes $22.43 billion for MassHealth, including $13.8 million in primary care rates and $5.3 million in behavioral health investments in outpatient and substance use disorder services. The House budget extends the Health Connector’s ConnectorCare Pilot program from two years to three years and expands its eligibility from 300% Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to 500% FPL. There were 51,237 people enrolled in ConnectorCare Pilot as of June 2024. The House budget also establishes a nine-member task force to address barriers and impediments to telehealth across state lines which must issue a report to facilitate interstate medical practice and the practice of telemedicine. The House’s FY25 budget invests in the human services workforce, which provides services to our most vulnerable residents, by including $207 million for Chapter 257 rates for health and human service workers, and $132 million for rate increases for nursing facilities. It also funds the following initiatives: •$12.6 million for the Safe and Successful Youth Initiative •$4.9 million in workforce development for funding for nurses through recruitment bonuses, educator funding, and testing •$3.2 million for the Besty Lehman Center for Patient Safety •$29.5 million for Councils on Aging The House budget makes investments controlling the cost of living by lowering food costs and ensuring access to our most vulnerable populations. It includes $55 million for the Emergency Food Assistance program, $20 million for the Massachusetts Healthy Incentives Program, which provides a dollar-for-dollar match to SNAP recipients purchasing locally grown healthy food, and $8.4 million for the SNAP for low-income workers program. Public Health and Mental Health The House budget funds the Department of Public Health at $1.05 billion and the Department of Mental Health at $1.28 billion for FY26. Investments include: •$194.5 million for the Bureau of Substance Abuse Services (BSAS) •$35 for HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention •$14.3 million for statewide and community-based suicide prevention •$10.4 million for community health centers, including $1 million for a new gender-affirming care program •$661.9 million for adult mental health supports •$128.6 million for child and adolescent services •$5 million for DHM loan forgiveness program Veterans’ Services The Executive Office of Veterans’ Services provides educational opportunities, outreach centers and service benefits, as well as personal care services through the Veterans’ Homes in Chelsea and Holyoke. The House budget includes the following investments: •$81.8 million for Veterans’ Benefit Payments •$79.8 million for the Veterans’ Homes in Chelsea and Holyoke •$9.5 million for Veterans’ Outreach Centers •$4 million for Veterans’ Homelessness Services Criminal Justice The House budget continues to invest in programs and policies that uphold our commitment to criminal justice reform by reducing recidivism rates and increasing access to justice and inmate services. It includes the following investments: •$33.7 million for the Office of Community Corrections •$16.1 million for Community Based Reentry Services •$7 million for Emerging Adults Pre-and-Post Release Reentry Grants •$3 million for Housing Assistance for Reentry Transition •$2.75 million for Reentry Workforce Development and Supportive Services •$1.4 million for the School of Reentry •$51 million for Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corp. to provide legal services to the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable populations •$10 million transfer to the Communications Access Trust Fund to provide free phone calls for inmates and their families •$5 million for the Immigration Legal Assistance Fund for non-violent offenders •$3.3 million for Prisoners’ Legal Services •$3 million to implement an access-to-counsel pilot program to provide legal representation for low-income families in eviction proceedings Speaker Mariano and the House Committee on Ways & Means introduced their FY26 budget proposal on April 16, 2025, following a review of the Governor’s proposal and a series of public hearings. The budget passed the House of Representatives 151-6 and now goes to the Senate for consideration. ###
BILL H.4005 4/10/2025 H4005 - An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2025 to provide for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects Voted favorably. MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE PASSES FY25 SURTAX SURPLUS SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET Fair Share surplus funds transportation and education investments BOSTON – Wednesday, April 9, 2025 -- The Massachusetts House of Representatives today passed a $1.3 billion supplemental budget that consists of surplus funds generated from the Fair Share surtax. This supplemental budget includes $353 million for education related investments, and $828 million for transportation related investments. “Ensuring that every Massachusetts resident has access to a safe and reliable public transportation system, and that every student in the Commonwealth receives a high-quality education, are two of the most fundamental responsibilities that we have as elected officials. The investments being made in this supplemental budget are representative of the House’s continued focus on meeting those responsibilities, and were made possible as a result of years of fiscally responsible, consensus driven budgeting,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Chairman Michlewitz and the House Committee on Ways and Means for working diligently to craft this supplemental budget, as well as all my colleagues in the House for voting to advance this vital funding. The House looks forward to building on these investments in the FY26 budget, and to continuing to deliver improvements to the Commonwealth's most fundamental institutions and services." “The use of these one-time surplus of funds are a unique opportunity for us to better strength the Commonwealth in numerous ways. By further improving our educational and transportation sectors we will build off the work we have done in the last several budget cycles with a judicious use of the Fair Share funds,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz (D-Boston), Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means. “I want to thank Speaker Mariano and all our House colleagues for their input and support on this critical funding legislation.” The supplemental budget passed today includes revenues generated from the Fair Share ballot initiative voters approved in November 2022, which established a new surtax of four percent on annual income above $1 million and invests these new public dollars to improve the state’s education and transportation sectors. Key investments include: Education •$190 million for Circuit Breaker reimbursements, which provide financial assistance to public school districts to offset the cost of delivering high-cost special education services to students. •$50 million for capital improvements at vocational schools •$40 million for early education and care (EEC) workforce, affordability, and quality improvement supports •$10 million for universal school meals for every public-school student in the Commonwealth •$10 million for DHE Endowment Match •$10 million for University of Massachusetts Endowment Match •$10 million for Green SchoolWorks to decarbonize and increase efficiency in our schools through green energy projects •$8.5 million for ESOL services waitlist Transportation •$400 million for MBTA Workforce and Safety Reserve •$300 million for MBTA Deficiency Fund •$60 million for MBTA physical infrastructure •$25 million for MTTF Transfer RTA Workforce Development •$20 million for reduced MBTA fares for riders with low incomes •$13 million for MBTA Sumner Tunnel reimbursement •$10 million for unpaved roads Additional Investments •$58 million from the Student Opportunity Act (SOA) Investment Fund for payment of additional reimbursements in FY25 •$5 million for the Holocaust Museum Boston This supplemental budget also tasks the Inspector General with publishing a report on best practices for providing transportation services, including the procurement of those services, to help contain ever-increasing costs to cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth. The bill passed the House of Representatives 140-14. It now goes to the Senate for its consideration.
BILL H.2026 2/26/2025 H2026 - Order relative to the adoption of permanent Joint Rules for the 194th General Court governing the 2025-2026 legislative sessions. Voted favorably.
BILL H.2024 2/26/2025 H2024 - Order relative to the adoption of permanent Rules of the House of Representatives for the 194th General Court governing the 2025-2026 legislative sessions. My vote in favor of amendment #17, to allow the State Auditor to audit the Legislature reflects the many conversations I had with constituents on the campaign trail who want to see more transparency in government. Staying true to my word and to the people I represent has always been and will be my priority. Voted favorably.
BILL H57 2/26/2025 H57 - An Act making appropriations for fiscal year 2025 to provide for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects. The housing crisis remains a critical challenge, and on February 6, 2025, I cast my first legislative vote in support of H. 57. This decision was not made lightly. After carefully weighing both sides of the issue, I chose the path that I believe is best for our community's long-term interests with the information available. This supplemental budget aims to ensure that Massachusetts' shelter programs are both fiscally sustainable and equitable, including a $425 million to fund the Emergency Assistance (EA) program through the end of Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) and includes the following set of reforms: Eligibility Verification: Temporary measures to verify eligibility for the EA program, aiming to ensure that assistance is provided to those who meet the established criteria. Eligibility requires that at least one member of the household has a qualifying immigration status. Program Reforms: Included to promote the long-term financial sustainability of the EA program, addressing current challenges and preparing for future needs. Presumptive Eligibility: Verifying shelter benefits by confirming Massachusetts residency and intent to stay during the application process. Temporary Respite Sites: Temporary shelter for up to 30 days for non-eligible families arriving in Massachusetts. Shortened Shelter Stays: A maximum stay of six months, with stricter requirements for extensions and eligibility checks. Safety First: Mandating criminal background checks for adult applicants and limiting the number of families served to 4,000 by 2026. As you know, state-funded shelter systems are essential to communities because they provide a safety net for Massachusetts families and individuals facing homelessness due to financial hardship, domestic violence, or unexpected crises. Without these shelters, more people would be forced into unsafe living conditions, increasing public health and safety concerns. Additionally, stable housing helps individuals get back on their feet by connecting them to job opportunities, healthcare, and education, reducing long-term dependence on public assistance. Investing in shelter systems can ultimately save taxpayer money by preventing more expensive emergency services, such as hospital visits or law enforcement interventions, that arise when homelessness is left unaddressed. Shelters are intended for legal residents, including individuals, families, and veterans. As we face challenges related to immigration and housing, it is essential that Congress take swift action to address these issues at a national level. Until that happens, it is critical that the administration quickly implement the further requirements of this bill to ensure fairness and accountability. These measures reflect the legislature's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations while ensuring the responsible management of state resources. While no bill is perfect, I am confident that the measures in this bill are a step in the right direction and reflects the wishes of my district based on the majority of constituent input requesting substantial reforms. This bill allows us to continue conversations and push for additional reforms as we move into the April budget process. We must continue to tackle the root causes of homelessness, such as the lack of affordable housing, mental health support, and economic opportunities. The bill now moves to the Senate for further consideration, and I will continue to advocate for reforms that prioritize the needs of our district. I encourage you to continue reaching out to share your thoughts and concerns regarding this and any other issue you are passionate about. It is helpful as I make decisions moving forward.
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