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Advocates gathered at a State House hearing on April 29 to testify in support of wheelchair repair legislation. Wheelchair users are calling long wait times for wheelchair repairs an enduring "crisis of equity" as lawmakers ponder whether to take up bills designed to make wheelchairs more reliable for those who depend on them for their livelihoods and health. Wheelchair users crowded into a State House hearing room to speak about the loss of independence extended wheelchair repairs cause, alongside their concerns about structural deficiencies in the repair system.
New Town Website Does
Not Support “Cut and Paste” of calendar entries. Go to
https://franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
However, Steve Sherlock from Franklin Matters has compiled and and
shared the below information. Thanks Steve!
With the Finance Committee budget hearings completed, the Town can focus on other business in advance of the early voting which begins May 16. Memorial Day Parade and ceremonies scheduled for May 26 are being adjusted. The parade route is being changed, it will start at 11 AM, the ceremonies at Dean College and the 2 cemeteries will be conducted in advance of the parade beginning at 9:30 AM. The ceremony on the Town Common will remain in place at noon. The American Legion & VFW are making these changes to hopefully make it easier for veterans to participate. The Town Council budget hearings are scheduled for May 21 & 22. The second hearing will be continued until the June 4 regularly scheduled meeting of the Town Council. If the override passes, the budget as proposed can be officially and formally passed. If the override fails, the budget adjustments will need to be made before the budget is approved. The vote of June 3rd will be available for them to close out the budget.
What do cuts look like if the override would fail?
- Fire Dept would lose staffing, and 3rd ambulance would come out of service
- Police Dept would lose staffing
- DPW admits many won't notice changes immediately but road repairs, etc will either be delayed or not happen with their cuts
- Other personnel cuts across the smaller departments would be significant in affecting service and program delivery
The Schools redistricting as currently funded, could lay the foundation for future or if the override fails, cuts of $2M across staffing would be made. The bus and athletic fees would remain as they are (rather than be reduced if the override passes). The choice will be up to the voters. Be informed with accurate info from Town and credible sources. Town Clerk's page with voting info and schedulehttps://www.franklinma.gov/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=Special-Election-for-Proposition-2-12-Ov-20
Town page with all the budget info and override detailshttps://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/1089/Fiscal-Year-2026-Override-Information
*** The agendas for the week ahead can be found here:
Franklin Public Schools Community Relations Meeting
Monday, May 5 Time: 5:30 PM
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05052025-1714
Community Preservation Committee Meeting
Monday, May 5 Time: 7:00 PM
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05052025-1717
Franklin School Committee - Executive Session Contract Negotiations
May 6, 2025 Time: 4:00 PM
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05062025-1588
Charles River Pollution Control District
May 7, 2025 Time: 3:30 PM
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05072025-1718
BOARD OF HEALTH MEETING - Moved to May 14
Wednesday, May 7 Time: 5:00 PM
No agenda at this time
Town Council Meeting
Wednesday, May 7 Time: 7:00 PM
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05072025-1719
Pole Petition Hearing Agenda - 90 East Central Street
May 8, 2025 Time: 12:00 PM
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05082025-1716
Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA)
May 8, 2025 Time: 7:30 PM
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05082025-1695
*** Looking back at the week that was ***
Three Finance Committee budget hearings, along with the Planning Board, School Committee, Town Council and Conservation Commission were a full line up of meetings.
The Franklin TV recordings are available for all of them as follows:
Finance Cmte recap & video
budget #1 (education) - https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/04/finance-committee-hears-of-franklin.html
budget #2 (public safety & public works) - https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/04/2nd-budget-hearing-confirms-what.html
budget #3 (general government & recommendation votes) - https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/05/finance-committee-closes-out-fy-2026.html
Planning Board video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koR2GYAZDaU
School Cmte video - https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/05/school-committee-approves-elementary.html
Town Council recap & video - https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/05/town-council-recognitions-for-police.html
Conservation Commission video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQInKdj_mFw
--------------
For all the meetings and cultural events, check out the calendars at Franklin.news where each day, that day's events on posted on the top of the page
Town calendar -> https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
Community calendar -> https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar
Subscribe for the daily dose of information -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/welcome.html
Subscribe for the weekly dose of information ->
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/p/subscribe-for-email.html
MEDWAY
Medway’s new website,
likewise, does not readily support cut and paste. Go to medwayma.gov.
Mon, May 5
3 PMSchool Committee Negotiations Subcommittee
Tues, May 6
Weds., May 7
3:30 PMCharles River Pollution Control District Meeting
STATE HOUSE AND BEYOND
President Donald Trump's persistent use of executive powers to cut spending, downsize the federal government and shift the nation's priorities has become a daily and almost mandatory obsession among Beacon Hill power brokers, but the Democrats who run state government have so far stood by pre-Trump estimates of expected federal aid and continued to expand their appetite for spending. While mindful that they may have to eventually carve up the budget they are assembling, lawmakers for now are proceeding as if there are no threats to federal aid and seemingly without much public concern about declining economic conditions. The House approved its $61.5 billion fiscal 2026 budget this week, settling on a plan that raises spending 6.6%. Clerks are working to move the amended House paperwork to the Senate on Monday, in time for the Senate Ways and Means Committee to poll out its proposed fiscal 2026 budget Tuesday, when Senate Democrats will specify how much spending they believe is achievable amid this period of heightened volatility. The full Senate plans to take up the annual budget bill the week before Memorial Day. The last time there were this many question marks surrounding the budget was in 2020, when legislators opted for the safety of bill-paying interim budgets until deep into the year when they felt more confident about the underpinnings of a full annual state budget. That playbook could be dusted off again this year, which would place even more power in the hands of the budget conference committee charged with eventually sending a take-it-or-leave-it final budget to the branches. Top state officials have been blunt about the situation. "We still don't know what's going to happen. So we could be back in September or October making changes," House Speaker Ron Mariano said at a Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce event April 10 at Fairmont Copley Plaza. Senate budget chief Michael Rodrigues this week also referenced the great unknowns associated with the shift in tax and spending priorities that Trump and congressional Republicans are working on. "Who knows what's going to happen in the fall, you know? Who knows what's going to happen? Nobody knows," Rodrigues said. The House Ways and Means Committee does not consider its annual budget bill to be a "money bill," limiting the ability for Senate Democrats to propose tax law changes.
The General Appropriations Act is the biggest spending bill each year but it's hardly the only appropriations bill in play. A time-sensitive Gov. Healey supplemental budget (H 4003) is still in House Ways and Means, and the full Senate on Thursday plans to debate, amend and pass a $1.28 billion income surtax supplemental budget (S 2512) that differs significantly from a proposal (H 4010) the House approved April 9. Debate on the so-called income surtax supplemental budget is expected to pivot over the balance between spending on education and transportation investments, the only two types of expenditures allowed under the terms of the 2022 constitutional amendment authorizing a 4% surtax on household income exceeding $1 million per year. The House bill favors transportation spending, especially on the MBTA, over education spending. The Senate Ways and Means Committee bill offers a more even split, with less money for the T and more aid for special education and local road and bridge programs. Amendments to the income tax supp are due Monday afternoon. Monday will also bring news about April tax collections, which are so large each year that they can make or break a fiscal year.
Sunday, May 4, 2025
MEEHAN JOINS KELLER: UMass President Marty Meehan discusses how higher education is pushing back against actions from the Trump administration during a "Keller at Large" interview with Jon Keller. Meehan will also discuss how the system is handing antisemitism on campus and investing in climate technology. (Sunday, May 4, 8:30 a.m., WBZ-TV)
SPILKA ON 10: Senate President Spilka appears on NBC10 Boston's "Weekend Today." (Sunday, 9:45 a.m., NBC10 Boston)
REP. VAUGHN ON OTR: Rep. Vaughn is the guest on WCVB's "On The Record," hosted by Ed Harding and Sharman Sacchetti. Democratic political analyst Mary Anne Marsh and Republican political analyst Ginny Buckingham join for the roundtable discussion. (Sunday, May 4, 11 a.m., WCVB Channel 5)
QUEER FAMILY FEST: Queer Neighborhood Council hosts "Queer Family Fest," featuring arts and crafts, community resources and family portraits. Organizers say the event creates an opportunity for "connection and shared experience." (Sunday, 12 p.m., 1 City Hall Sq., Boston)
FORWARD PARTY CONVENTION: Massachusetts Forward Party, a political designation in Massachusetts based on a group founded by Andrew Yang with the involvement of former Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey, holds its first convention. (Sunday, 1 p.m., American Legion, 215 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham | Register)
PENCE RECEIVES PROFILE IN COURAGE AWARD: Former Vice President Mike Pence receives the 2025 JFK Profile in Courage Award from the JFK Library Foundation. Pence is being honored for "putting his life and career on the line to ensure the constitutional transfer of presidential power on January 6, 2021," organizers say. The award ceremony will happen during the foundation's annual gala, which is chaired by former U.S. Ambassador to Ireland Claire Cronin. Former Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy and her son, Jack Schlossberg, present the award, which is given to "public servants for making a courageous decision of conscience without regard for the personal or professional consequences." (Sunday, May 4, 8:15 p.m. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, Columbia Point, Boston | Livestream)
Monday, May 5, 2025
SJC SITS IN BOSTON: Supreme Judicial Court hears oral arguments in five cases. Docket includes Commonwealth v. Rodriguez, which considers questions of selective enforcement in a criminal case, and Commonwealth v. Santana-Rodriguez, a murder prosecution that could decide whether Massachusetts will recognize the doctrine of "transferred intent self-defense." (Monday, 9 a.m., John Adams Courthouse, Courtroom 1, One Pemberton Sq., Boston | Sitting List | Livestream)
GAMING COMMISSION: Gaming Commission meets. After an executive director's report and a legislative update, the Sports Wagering Division will present an update to the catalog of events allowed for legal wagers to clarify the prohibition on events including Russian/Belarusian teams. The agenda also calls for a discussion of the fiscal 2026 Community Mitigation Fund, a source of funds for cities and towns that regulators think might no longer be prioritized by lawmakers. (Monday, 10 a.m., Agenda and Access Info)
RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES: Special Commission on Continuing Care Retirement Communities meets. The panel, created through a 2024 long-term care oversight law, is tasked with studying the communities, including their regulatory oversight, entrance fees, and procedures for closing or ownership changes. (Monday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Livestream)
EVICTION SEALING: Lt. Gov. Driscoll, Attorney General Campbell, Senate President Spilka, Sen. Edwards and advocates participate in a press conference to mark the start of eviction record sealing protections, which were included in the 2024 Affordable Homes Act. The provisions, which take effect May 5, give tenants the ability to petition the courts for certain eviction records to be sealed. Organizers say the provision is an "important step forward in expanding housing access and creating second chances for tenants across the Commonwealth." (Monday, 10 a.m., In front of Eastern Housing Court, 24 New Chardon St., Boston)
HAZMAT WORK GROUP: Hazmat Work Group of the Board of Fire Prevention Regulations meets. Members will elect a chair and discuss the goals of the work group. (Monday, 10 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream)
HEALEY IN STONEHAM: Gov. Healey tours downtown Stoneham as part of Small Business Week. She's joined by Interim Economic Development Secretary Stolba, Rep. Day, Sen. Lewis, Stoneham Town Administrator Dennis Sheehan and Stoneham Select Board Chair Tim Waitkevitch. The tour starts at Greater Boston Stage Company, where attendees will meet with local business leaders and community leaders. The tour then heads to Ceramica Paint Studio, a woman-owned small business at 380 Main St., (Monday, 10:30 a.m., 395 Main St., Stoneham)
HOUSE: House meets in an informal session. (Monday, 11 a.m., House Chamber | Livestream)
SENATE SESSION: Senate meets without a calendar. (Monday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber | Livestream)
FEDERAL IMPACTS ON NONPROFITS: The Boston Foundation, Massachusetts Nonprofit Network and MassINC Polling Group release results from their "Massachusetts Nonprofits Federal Impacts Survey." The survey incorporates responses from 520 nonprofit leaders. The event also includes a panel discussion with public and nonprofit leaders who are expected to address what organizers call an "uncertain and often hostile landscape of Executive Orders and policy changes that have marked the beginning of the current federal Administration." Organizers say the event has reached in-person capacity but will be livestreamed. (Monday, 12:30 p.m. | Register)
LITTLETON DEVELOPMENT: Lupoli Companies hosts a groundbreaking ceremony for Kingston Street in Littleton, a 50-acre site that is one of the largest mixed-use development projects underway in Massachusetts. About 2 million square feet will be transformed into 1,000 residential units, a hotel, and 115,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space. Computer software manufacturer HIPER Global will establish King Street as its new U.S. headquarters. There will also be open space for community events. Speakers include Gov. Healey, Sen. Eldridge, Rep. Arciero, Littleton Town Manager Jim Duggan, and Lupoli Companies CEO Sal Lupoli. (Monday, 12:30 p.m., 550 King St., Littleton)
VICTIMS RIGHTS: Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance holds its Victims Rights Awards Ceremony. The event honors individuals who have "made notable contributions to advancing victim rights and services in Massachusetts," according to MOVA. Rep. Hogan will be honored with the Legislator of the Year Award. (Monday, 1 p.m., Grand Staircase)
ANTISEMITISM COMMISSION: Special Commission on Combating Antisemitism meets. Agenda includes a discussion about trends in extremist activity from Ben Popp of the ADL Center on Extremism. David O'Sullivan, assistant district attorney in the Essex District Attorney's Office, will discuss existing hate crimes statutes. Detective Lt. Ryan Czepiel of the Massachusetts State Police will lead a discussion on federal, state and local partnerships in combatting antisemitism and hate incidents. Agenda includes a discussion on the state's nonprofit security grants. (Monday, 1 p.m., Room A-2 | Agenda and Livestream)
CORRECTIONAL CONSOLIDATION: Special Commission on Correctional Consolidation and Collaboration meets. Agenda includes a discussion about the panel's work. The Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association will also finish its presentation about correctional programs, resources and funding. (Monday, 1 p.m., Room 428 | Agenda and Livestream)
HIGHER EDUCATION COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Higher Education holds a hearing on about 20 bills. Legislation from Reps. Vargas and Domb and Sen. Lovely (H 1466 / S 939) look to establish the hunger-free campus grant program. A bevy of bills look to boost fairness in the college admissions process, including proposals from Rep. Mike Moran and Sen. Edwards (H 1452 / S 928) to ban legacy preferences in higher education. The agenda also includes various bills aiming to create streamlined procedures for how colleges and universities handle AP exam scores to satisfy degree requirements. (Monday, 1 p.m., Room A-1 | Full agenda and Livestream)
MARKEY TALKS GRANTS: U.S. Sen. Markey joins U.S. Rep. Summer Lee of Pennsylvania and Lawyers for Good Government for a virtual press conference to discuss the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's cancellation of many grants focused on environmental justice. (Monday, 4:30 p.m., RSVP to Markey_Press@markey.senate.gov for access info)
CLEAN ENERGY LAW: State energy officials hold their fourth stakeholder session ahead of releasing regulations to implement the siting and energy permitting reforms included in the 2024 clean energy law. This session is focused on site suitability criteria. (Monday, 5:30 p.m., 221 Appleton St., Holyoke Heritage State Park, Holyoke | More Info)
CIVIL RIGHTS COALITION KICKOFF: Civil Rights Coalition hosts the first fundraiser for its 2026 ballot initiative, which will aim to repeal gun laws passed in 2024. Sen. Peter Durant is scheduled as a special guest. For tickets, call 781-424-2631. (Monday, 6 p.m., Massachusetts Firearms School, 100 Kuniholm Dr, Holliston)
APRIL REVENUES: Department of Revenue is due to report on tax collections from April, generally the most significant month of the year for tax revenues. The Healey administration has set April's full-month benchmark at $5.722 billion, which would be $605 million less than what was collected in April 2024. By mid-month, DOR had collected $3.614 billion -- $1.831 billion or 102.8% more than what was collected during the same period of April 2024. Through March, fiscal 2025 collections of $29.681 billion were running $2.149 billion or 7.8% ahead of actual collections during the same nine-month period of fiscal 2024, and $786 million or 2.7% above the year-to-date benchmark. Like last year, DOR said that a "significant portion" of the year-to-date above benchmark performance is likely driven by surtax and capital gains tax collections, which have restrictions on their use. (Monday)
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
SCHOOL COMMITTEES: Massachusetts Association of School Committees holds its annual Day on Hill. Programming starts at the UMass Club, where a speaking program features members from the Joint Committee on Education, including Sens. Lewis and Jehlen and Reps. Gordon and Ayers. Attendees will have lunch at the State House, prepared by students from vocational-technical culinary programs, before meeting with lawmakers. The association is promoting bills to overhaul the Chapter 70 funding formula, improve funding and resources for rural school districts, boost capacity in vocational technical schools, and establish a financial literacy trust fund. (Tuesday, 9:30 a.m., UMass Club, 1 Beacon St. | More Info)
PRIM COMMITTEE: The Massachusetts Pension Reserve Investment Committee meets. Treasurer Goldberg will chair. (Tuesday, 9:30 a.m., Visit https://www.mapension.com/events/ for access)
TELECOMM AND TOWING: Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy holds a hearing on bills related to telecommunications services, towing and miscellaneous items. Sen. Brendan Crighton's S 2253 speaks to congestion assessments for transportation network company trips, Sen. Peter Durant's S 2265 would require that rideshare companies have a 24/7 customer service line, and Sen. William Brownsberger's S 2236 looks to address delivery drivers on motorized things that aren't quite cars, like scooters. And H 3466 from Rep. Mike Connolly that would create a task force to study and "make actionable recommendations" related to public ownership of "(i) natural gas making, distribution, supply, purchase and sale and (ii) electricity generation and distribution to commercial, industrial and residential customers throughout the commonwealth." (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Hearing Room A-2 | More Info)
COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND: Massachusetts Commission for the Blind Statutory Advisory Board meets. Agenda includes a report from Commissioner John Oliveira and Deputy Commissioner Justine Muir, as well as program updates. (Tuesday, 12 p.m. | Agenda and Zoom)
MUNI DEI: Massachusetts Municipal Association holds a members-only webinar called "Demystifying DEI." Angela Clark, chief of organizational diversity, equity, and inclusion at Attorney General Campbell's office, participates in a panel discussion exploring how municipal leaders can keep advancing DEI initiatives despite the wave of recent executive orders. (Tuesday, 12 p.m. | Register)
SENATE DEMOCRATS CAUCUS: Senate Democrats caucus, on the afternoon that the Senate Ways and Means budget will release its fiscal year 2026 budget proposal. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Senate president's office and virtual)
ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources holds a hearing on bills dealing with recycling, plastics, waste management and local issues. The docket features a slew of ideas that have lingered for years, like imposing fees for single-use disposable food containers or plastic bags, banning or restricting things like plastic bags and plastic straws, and more. Rep. Jenny Armini's H 889 speaks to creating a recycling program for boat shrink-wrap scraps or covers and H 1035 from Rep. David Rogers deals with the sale of single-use beverage containers and the minimum content standard for plastic beverage containers. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Hearing Room A-1 | More Info)
POST HEARING: POST Commission holds a virtual pre-hearing conference dealing with Robert Devine. That's followed by an in-person hearing that is closed to the public. (Tuesday, 1 p.m. | More Info and Zoom)
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on the Judiciary holds a hearing on crime-related bills. Rep. Chris Markey's H 1865 deals with the penalties for people who start high-speed chases, Rep. Kathy LaNatra's H 1823 increases penalties for hit and runs with recreational vehicles, Rep. Rodney Elliot's H 1680 would establish Kratom as a controlled substance, and Rep. David Linksy's H 1837 increases penalties for the illegal sale and possession of firearms. Bills on the agenda also deal with assaults on sports officials, civil asset forfeiture and drug trafficking. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Hearing Room A-2 | More Info)
ELECTION LAWS COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Election Laws holds a hearing on bills related to under-18 and non-citizen voting, including home rule petitions. A bill with local approval from Boston, H 841 filed by Rep. Russell Holmes, would give the city the authority to endow Boston residents aged 16 and 17 years old with legal voting rights in municipal elections. H 870 from Rep. Danillo Sena would do the same for Acton. A home rule petition from Brockton (S 2510) would require that any candidate running for mayor, city council or school committee reside in the city or the ward for one year prior to the election. Rep. Mike Connolly's H 810 would extend voting rights in municipal elections to people 18 or older who have legal immigration status but are not citizens, and Rep. Natalie Blais' H 3919 would authorize local voting rights for lawful permanent residents in Leverett. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Hearing Room B-1 | More Info)
EDUCATION COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Education holds a hearing related to extracurriculars, English language learners and bilingual education, and student learning. Sen. Pavel Payano and Rep. Frank Moran have a bill (S 436 / H 650) that looks to codify federal protections related to English language learners and bilingual education to prevent any rollback of rights at the federal level. Payano's summary says the bill also "mandates that school interpreters be properly trained and qualified, protects students with disabilities from inequitable school exclusion, and explicitly affirms the right to public education regardless of disability or immigration status." The docket also includes a bill (S 350 / H 584) from Sen. Ryan Fattman and Rep. John Gaskey that would bar public schools from requiring any student athlete on a single-sex sports team to participate in a match against an opposing team that includes one or more athletes of the opposite sex, and from penalizing coaches for forfeiting such matches. The bipartisan duo of Sen. Patrick O'Connor and Rep. Marjorie Decker has legislation (S 417 / H 543) that would mandate that all students in kindergarten through eighth grade in public or charter schools get at least 30 consecutive minutes of "supervised, safe, and unstructured free-play recess per school day which shall be held outdoors whenever the weather and air quality permits." (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Hearing Room B-2 | More Info)
CLEAN AIR RALLY: Massachusetts Environmental Justice Table, health care providers, advocates and elected officials participate in a rally for clean air to mark World Asthma Day. Participants will promote bills (S 1584 / H 2639) to address communities "overburdened by outdoor air pollution," and legislation (S 1546 / H 2427) to increase air monitoring in pollution hotspots. (Tuesday, 4 p.m., Bremen Street Community Park amphitheater, 344 Bremen St., East Boston)
SENATE WAYS AND MEANS BUDGET: Senate Ways and Means Committee unveils its fiscal 2026 budget bill. The committee does not plan to hold an open in-person executive session to vote on the bill, as lawmakers used to do more often, and will instead ask members to vote on the bill through an electronic poll. Senate budget chief Michael Rodrigues signaled the package will include roughly an even split of surtax dollars across education and transportation investments, the two buckets allowed under the constitutional amendment voters approved in 2022. The House approved a $61.5 billion budget on Wednesday, as representatives tacked on about $81 million in spending through consolidated amendments and local earmarks. Like the House budget, the SWM proposal will not account for any potential federal funding reductions. Senators plan to vote on the budget before Memorial Day, but Senate President Spilka warned future revisions may be needed depending on the scope of federal funding cuts. Beacon Hill budget writers are counting on roughly $16 billion in federal dollars, with the vast majority for Medicaid. Rodrigues, during a briefing with reporters Thursday, warned that fiscal 2026 budget earmarks "will probably be much more limited than what we're normally able to because of the budget constraints." Through consolidated amendments, representatives staved off some of Gov. Healey's controversial health care budget cuts, including by preserving the Department of Mental Health case manager workforce and creating a special commission to study the future of Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children in Canton. (Tuesday)
Wednesday, May 7, 2025
RENTAL VOUCHER REPORT: Boston Foundation hosts an event to release a new report on the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program. The report, based on surveys, focus groups and interviews, delves into ways to improve the program, which advocates and housing providers see as a core component of the state's affordable housing landscape. A voucher participant and MRVP landlord will give remarks. There's also a panel discussion with Robert Corley of NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, Keith Fairey of Way Finders and Beverly Williams of social services organization BAMSI. (Wednesday, 9 a.m., The Edgerley Center for Civic Leadership at the Boston Foundation, 75 Arlington St., Boston | Register)
SJC SITS IN BOSTON: Supreme Judicial Court hears oral arguments in six cases. Docket includes Tran v. Commonwealth, former Sen. Dean Tran's appeal seeking to dismiss his indictments for conflict of interest violations on the ground of legislative immunity and because of conduct of the prosecutor involving the grand jury. (Wednesday, 9 a.m., John Adams Courthouse, Courtroom 1, One Pemberton Sq., Boston | Sitting List | Livestream)
PRIM REAL ESTATE: The Massachusetts Pension Reserve Investment Committee Real Estate and Timberland Committee meets. Treasurer Goldberg chairs. (Wednesday, 9:30 a.m., Visit https://www.mapension.com/events/)
PUBLIC HOUSING DAY: Massachusetts Union of Public Housing Tenants hosts "Public Housing Day." Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Augustus gives remarks, alongside Sen. Gomez and Rep. Fiola, according to event organizers. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Great Hall)
SPILKA AT CHAMBER: Senate President Karen Spilka is the featured speaker at a Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce government affairs forum. Spilka will talk about her legislative priorities, the day after the Senate Ways and Means Committee unveils their fiscal year 2026 budget. Her speech will begin at 10 a.m., with a Q&A with Chamber President and CEO Jim Rooney at 10:30 a.m. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., The Westin Boston Seaport, Boston)
BOSTON ENROLLMENT BENEFITS FAIR: Boston officials hold an annual enrollment benefits fair for eligible city workers and retirees. The open enrollment window is April 28 through May 16 for individuals to enroll in, update or cancel their health insurance coverage. Attendees can ask questions about coverage options, pick up forms and submit paperwork. The event runs through 2 p.m. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., 1 City Hall Square, Room 801, Boston)
CANNABIS POLICY: Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy holds a public hearing on about 20 bills dealing with public health and testing. A Rep. Consalvo proposal (H 146) looks to ensure "efficient" cannabis testing standards, while legislation from Rep. Vaughn (H 191) and Sen. O'Connor (S 96) would introduce tighter potency limits for THC products. A Rep. Shand bill (H 170) would create the "Cannabis Product Recall Fund," plus develop regulations to handle mandatory product recalls for products cultivated, processed, manufactured, delivered or sold in any establishment in Massachusetts. Also on the agenda is a Rep. Jones proposal to launch a special commission to examine "lab shopping" in the cannabis industry, including the "frequency, risks, and processes used by cultivators. (Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Room B-1 | Full Agenda and Livestream)
CPA ALTERNATIVE PATH TO LICENSURE: Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants holds its annual advocacy day, featuring remarks from Sens. Friedman and Feeney and Rep. Madaro. MassCPAs say its top priority is legislation (H 352 / S 209) that would create an alternative pathway to CPA licensure, while still maintaining the existing 150-credit-hour licensure pathway. The bills aim to boost the CPA talent pipeline amid "nationwide shortages" by enabling individuals to be licensed after completing a bachelor's degree, two years of work and the CPA exam. "Our goal is to expand access to the CPA profession without compromising the high standards that define it," Zach Donah, president of MassCPAs, said. "Modernizing the CPA pathway will help Massachusetts attract and retain top accounting talent, ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive." (Wednesday, 11 a.m.,Room 428)
AUTHOR TALK: State Library holds an Author Talk with Steven Beaucher on his book, "Boston in Transit: Mapping the History of Public Transportation in the Hub." The book, which offers an illustrated history of the city's public transportation system, spans the use of ferries in the 1630 to the "evolution of the MBTA." Beaucher is co-founder of WardMaps LLC, which deals in antique maps and public transportation artifacts. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., State Library, Room 341 | More Info and Livestream)
GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL: Governor's Council holds its weekly assembly. Councilors could vote on confirmation for Northeast Housing Court clerk magistrate nominee John Riordan, and Superior Court nominees Jeffrey Trapani and Charles Groce III. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., Council Chamber, Room 360)
MEDICAID WEBINAR: The Arc of Massachusetts hosts a webinar about Medicaid-funded supports for individuals with disabilities. The webinar, featuring experts and families with lived experiences, will cover programs like day habilitation, adult family/foster care, and personal care attendant services. (Wednesday, 12:30 p.m. | Register)
PUBLIC SERVICE: Joint Committee on Public Service holds a public hearing on about 40 bills focused on mostly individual matters, including retirement benefits, sick leave banks, disability pensions and retirement, and civil service examinations. Bills from Rep. Walsh and Sen. Tarr (H 2993 / S 1910)) would ensure that family members receive a state and U.S. flag should their loved one, a sworn police officer or firefighter, die in the line of duty. A Sen. Eldridge proposal (S 1836) would calculate the cost of non-commonwealth entities that become part of the state employees' retirement system. (Wednesday, 1 p.m., Room A-1 | Agenda and Livestream)
CLEAN WATER TRUST: Massachusetts Clean Water Trust Board of Trustees meets. Treasurer Goldberg chairs. (Wednesday, 1:30 p.m., Zoom)
FAMILY CAREGIVER BRIEFING: AARP Massachusetts hosts a legislative briefing about a bill (H 3159 / S 1938) designed to support family caregivers with vouchers and tax credits. The legislation would also create a new advisory council on family caregiving to oversee improvements to the practice. AARP says about 780,000 family caregivers in Massachusetts provide nearly $15 billion in unpaid labor tending to loved ones. (Wednesday, 3 p.m., Room 428)
BLIND VENDORS: Massachusetts Elected Committee of Blind Vendors meets. (Wednesday, 5 p.m. | Agenda and Zoom)
DiZOGLIO AT GOP MEETING: Auditor Diana DiZoglio, who cultivated support from Republicans as she successfully sought the power to audit the Legislature, headlines the New Bedford Republican City Committee meeting. She is expected to deliver a "state of the audit" speech. Organizers said Rep. Marc Lombardo of Billerica has been invited to speak on behalf of potential gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve. Other invited speakers include former U.S. Senate candidate John Deaton, Reps. Steven Xiarhos and Kenneth Sweezey, and "Citizens Against Eversource" founder Elijah DeSousa. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Wamsutta Club, 427 County St., New Bedford)
FAMILY SELF-SUFFICIENCY: Compass Working Capital and Boston Housing Authority host an event to celebrate their first cohort of Family Self-Sufficiency graduates. The decades-old program created by Congress helps residents of buildings owned by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development build savings and financial security. Attorney General Campbell attends. Media asked to RSVP to lauren@merakicommsgroup.com. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Sasaki Foundation, 101 Chauncy St., Suite 200, Boston)
ATKINSON TALK: Historian and Suffolk University professor Rick Atkinson speaks about the second volume of his Revolutionary War Trilogy "The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charlestown, 1777-1780" as part of The Commonwealth Museum's series celebrating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. (Wednesday, 7 p.m., The Commonwealth Museum, Massachusetts Archives Building, 220 Morrissey Blvd., Boston)
Thursday, May 8, 2025
MUNI HR: Massachusetts Municipal Human Resources association holds its annual HR 101 Boot Camp, which is aimed at newer municipal HR professionals and individuals coming from the private sector. Agenda includes a health insurance benefits workshop, a "finance 101" panel, and a DEI workshop. (Thursday, 8:30 a.m., Cyprian Keyes Golf Club, 284 E. Temple St., Boylston | Register)
SPILKA AIM AWARD: Senate President Spilka accepts the Associated Industries of Massachusetts' Frances Perkins Award for leadership in passing wage equity and transparency legislation. (Thursday, 9 a.m., The Westin Boston Seaport District, 425 Summer St., Boston)
DCR STEWARDSHIP: Department of Conservation and Recreation Stewardship Council meets virtually. Agenda includes a report from DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo and a presentation about DCR volunteers. (Thursday, 9 a.m. | Agenda and Zoom)
MASSPORT BOARD: Massport Board meets. (Thursday, 9 a.m. | More Info)
CANNABIS COMMISSION: Cannabis Control Commission is expected to meet. (Thursday, 10 a.m., More Info TBA)
CARING FORCE RALLY: Providers' Council hosts its annual Caring Force Rally and lobby day. Senate President Spilka gives remarks, and Rep. Sabadosa and Sen. Miranda receive the Caring Bear Award. Advocates are supporting bills to create a student loan repayment program (S 119 / H 283), as well as proposals (S 130 / H 223) that aim to eliminate pay disparities between state workers and individuals working at community-based human services nonprofits. (Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Great Hall)
SENATE SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET DEBATE: Senate plans to debate and amend a nearly $1.3 billion supplemental budget backed by mostly excess surtax revenues. Under the 2022 constitutional amendment that voters approved, surtax revenues must be spent on transportation and education investments, though the law doesn't specify a required split across those two categories. The House opted to go transportation-heavy in its bill, steering about $790 million toward the MBTA to help the agency replenish its depleted deficiency fund and hold onto service gains accomplished through hiring and investing. The Senate Ways and Means Committee plan would send $370 million to the MBTA. The overall package directs $613 million to education and $670 million to transportation. The SWM proposal places a greater emphasis on investing in regional transit authorities, roads and bridges, and special education funding. Senate budget chief Rodrigues told reporters the branch will consider earmarks focused on-time capital-related investments in education and transportation. (Thursday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber)
HOUSE: House plans to meet in an informal session. (Thursday, 11 a.m., House Chamber)
ABBOTT CEO TALK: Abbott CEO Robert Ford is the featured speaker at the Boston College Chief Executives Club luncheon. A 1994 graduate of Boston College, Ford was named CEO of the medical device and health care company in 2020. He will discuss innovation in health care and leadership on a global scale in a fireside chat with Boston Children’s Hospital President and CEO Dr. Kevin Churchwell. (Thursday, 12 p.m., Wharf Room, Boston Harbor Hotel, 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston)
TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Transportation holds an informational hearing "for committee members and public to hear from administration officials working on transportation policy." House leaders have expressed confidence in MBTA General Manager Phil Eng and are seeking to give the T a big boost with surplus surtax money, but the Senate Ways and Means Committee favors a much smaller outlay. In January, Gov. Healey proposed an $8 billion, 10-year transportation investment plan that relies in large part on borrowing authorizations and using a larger share of the 4% income surtax on high earners. (Thursday, 1 p.m., Hearing Room A-2 | More Info)
NATURE FOR MASS CAMPAIGN LAUNCH: The Nature for Massachusetts Coalition, a group of environmental and conservation organizations and advocates, hosts a campaign launch event. The coalition is calling for legislation that would "create a permanent and dedicated revenue source to fund conservation, restoration, and the protection of land, nature, and water." The group is supporting two bills filed this session (H 901, S 597) that would dedicate a portion of the revenue from the sporting goods sales tax to a permanent fund for conservation. (Thursday 1:30 p.m., Room 428)
VE DAY: USS Constitution hosts a Victory in Europe Day ceremony, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. Guests from the German, French, British and Canadian consulates general attend. There will be an eight-gun salute to mark eight decades since VE Day, as well as a performance of "Taps." (Thursday, 1:30 p.m., USS Constitution, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown)
DEVENS WORKING GROUP: Devens Working Group, tasked with developing a plan to boost housing production in Devens, meets. Members will discuss an updated draft report. (Thursday, 2 p.m., 33 Andrews Parkway, Devens)
DISABILITY COMMUNITY FORUM: Boston hosts its annual Disability Community Forum, featuring presentation of the Commission on Persons with Disabilities and the Disability Advisory Board's annual report from Kristen McCosh, ADA coordinator and disability commissioner. (Thursday, 2 p.m., Suffolk University School of Law, 120 Tremont St., Boston | Register and Livestream)
WOMEN IN STEM: Science Club for Girls hosts its annual Catalyst Awards, which recognize women leaders in STEM fields. Gov. Healey shares remarks via video, according to her office. Honorees include Dorothy Phillips, president of the American Chemical Society, and Christine Santos, chief technology officer at Manus. (Thursday, 6 p.m., The Grand, 58 Seaport Blvd. #300, Boston)
TRAILS FOR ALL FORUM: Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation hosts a forum as part of its Trails for All initiative. People with disabilities, accessibility advocates, trail designers and land managers are encouraged to share feedback about challenges they've experienced on trails and ideas for accessibility improvements. (Thursday, 6 p.m. | Register)
Friday, May 9, 2025
METROWEST HUMAN SERVICE: MetroWest Human Service Advocacy Coalition holds its annual spring breakfast. Senate President Spilka delivers remarks. (Friday, 8:30 a.m., Nevins Hall, 150 Concord St., Framingham)
SJC SITS IN BOSTON: Supreme Judicial Court hears arguments in two cases, both involving various issues arising from murder cases. (Friday, 9 a.m., John Adams Courthouse, Courtroom 1, One Pemberton Sq., Boston | Sitting List | Livestream)
WORCESTER PARKING POLICY: The Research Bureau hosts "A City for People: Reorienting Parking Policy," a presentation about recent reports on parking minimums in Worcester and how they've affected parking development in the city. A panel includes: senior research associate at the Worcester Regional Research Bureau Joshua Boucher, commissioner of transportation and mobility at the City of Worcester Steve Rolle, senior transportation planner at the Metropolitan Area Planning Council Adi Mochur, and Cambridge City Councilor Burhan Azeem. (Friday, 4 p.m., Park View Room, 230 Park Ave, Worcester)
Saturday, May 10, 2025
FIRE SPRINKLER DEMO: A live fire sprinkler demonstration in Easthampton will kick off Home Fire Sprinkler Week, which runs from May 11-17. Easthampton Fire Chief Christopher Norris, firefighters and the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services will include two real fires in their demo in a simulated residential environment. One of two identical rooms will have fire sprinklers, which will show spectators how sprinklers can contain or extinguish fires. (Saturday, May 10, 11 a.m., Williston Northampton School parking lot, 18 Payson Ave., Easthampton)
