People, Power, and Politics

All eyes are on Washington, D.C. State government officials are girding for the possibility of a federal government shutdown, and executive branch leaders have been instructed to summarize concerns about their ability to address payroll concerns and lay out their plans to protect Massachusetts residents and resources. "We are asking departments for a quick turnaround, with responses to this memo due on Tuesday, September 30 by 5:00 pm.," officials in the Office of the Comptroller and the Executive Office of Administration and Finance wrote Sept. 23 in a memo to state chief fiscal officers, budget directors and general counsels.

FRANKLIN
New Town Website Does Not Support “Cut and Paste” of calendar entries. Go to https://franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx to view directly. Steve Sherlock from Franklin Matters has kindly compiled and and shared the below information. Thanks Steve!

A summer day in September?

Yup, it can happen, and it brought out the crowds to the Annual Harvest Festival in downtown Franklin, on Saturday, Sep 27. From the triangle to School St, Main St was chockfull of families, vendors, organizations, sprinkled with games and live music. It was clear a good time was had by all!

This week brings the formal transition from September to October.

The Pumpkin Patch opens Sunday the 28th at St John’s

Franklin Cultural Council and Agricultural Committee are scheduled to meet on Monday, Sep 29

Franklin Housing Authority and Franklin School Committee meet on Tuesday, Sep 30

The Board of Health meets on Wednesday, Oct 1

The Franklin Commission on Disability and Conservation Commission are scheduled to meet on Thursday, Oct 2

The Farmers Market returns to the Town Common on Friday with only a few more times remaining before closing down for the season

The Fire Dept holds an Open House on Saturday, Oct 4 to close out the week

No matter the weather we are also into election season. Let’s keep the conversations going in a civil and respectful manner.

*** Meeting schedule and agendas as of Town page 9/26/25, 7:30 Pm

Franklin Cultural Council Meeting

Monday, September 29 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09292025-1930

Franklin Agricultural Committee Meeting

Monday, September 29 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09292025-1926

Franklin Housing Authority Meeting

Tuesday, September 30 Time: 4:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09302025-1932

Franklin School Committee Meeting

Tuesday, September 30 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09302025-1934

BOARD OF HEALTH MEETING

Wednesday, October 1, 2025 Time: 5:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10012025-1917

Franklin Commission of Disability

Thursday, October 2, 2025 Time: 4:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10022025-1931

Conservation Commission Meeting

Thursday, October 2, 2025 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/506?fileID=6550

MEDWAY
Medway’s new website, likewise, does not readily support cut and paste. Go to medwayma.gov.

STATE HOUSE and BEYOND

Only about two weeks into the Trump administration, House Speaker Ron Mariano declared in February that Massachusetts had "lost our federal partner." That was long before July's final passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, the landmark law that President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans believe will put the nation on a path of progress and prosperity. Local analysts have a dimmer view, asserting that the law will set back social welfare programs and health care efforts that were carefully cultivated over many years by draining a range of federal supports, including clean energy incentives, that are central to the state economy. Now, as the calendar turns to October, there's a possibility that the federal government may shut down due to the inability of Republicans and Democrats in Washington to find common ground on spending plans. State finance officials this week called on executive branch agencies to consider contingency plans and ways to protect residents and meet payrolls if a shutdown occurs on Wednesday. The shutdown threat comes as executive and legislative branch leaders hold an invite-only public session Tuesday to discuss the economy and shifting federal policies. A report is due by week's end on potentially pivotal September tax collections. And inside the Healey administration, the governor still doesn't have an official answer from the Legislature about her request for expanded budget cutting authority, should she need to exercise it. Calculations within the Executive Office for Administration and Finance must also consider the import of Oct. 15, the statutory deadline for the executive branch to deliver any recalibration of available budgeted revenues, taking into account tax collections, probable economic growth, anticipated federal fund receipts, and expected growth in wages and salaries.

Storylines in Progress

... State transportation officials say they are moving forward after the company awarded a highway service plaza overhaul contract walked away from lease talks on Tuesday. The officials just are not saying how they are moving forward ... Education officials visit Arlington on Monday to release the 2025 school and district MCAS results and accountability designations, and the Elementary and Secondary Education board will get to dig into the results at a meeting Tuesday ... Tuesday will also see state budget managers huddle with outside experts to assess the budget and state finance outlook for fiscal year 2026 in the face of federal shifts ... A slew of lawmakers and administration officials will be in Devens on Wednesday for the Mass. Budget and Policy Center's inaugural policy conference, and former Vice President Mike Pence will be in Boston that afternoon ... The House and Senate are expected to meet in informal sessions Thursday ... Supporters of a bill raising taxes on multinational corporations who do business in Massachusetts say they have most lawmakers on their side, and will try to convince the Revenue Committee on Friday to pass their legislation ...

Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025

COLLINS ON KELLER: Dr. Michael Collins, chancellor of the UMass Chan Medical School, joins political analyst Jon Keller for his weekly talk segment, "Keller at Large." Collins will discuss the impact of federal budget cuts on the school’s research, the brain drain of top-level researchers, and efforts on Beacon Hill to help ease the funding crisis, according to Keller. (Sunday, 8:30 a.m., WBZ-TV)

KERRIGAN ON THE RECORD: Massachusetts Democratic Party Chair Steve Kerrigan joins WCVB's weekly political talk show, "On the Record." (Sunday, 11 a.m. WCVB)

DOUGLASS WEEK: Descendants of Frederick Douglass and elected officials kick off Douglass Week, meant to celebrate the legacy of renowned abolitionist, author and activist who at times lived and worked in Boston, Lynn and New Bedford. Sen. Rush and Rep. Consalvo participate. (Sunday, 11 a.m., Camp Meigs Memorial Park, 11 Stanbro St., Hyde Park)

Monday, Sept. 29, 2025

PUBLIC HEALTH COMMITTEE: Public Health Committee holds a public hearing on nearly 40 bills, including multiple proposals that look to overhaul the closure process for hospitals and other essential services. Problems with the existing process were magnified by the Steward Health Care crisis, as the company bypassed required time periods to submit closure notices; the Department of Public Health also lacks the authority to force hospitals to stay open, even if they're deemed essential. A Sen. Rush bill (S 1622) looks to establish a working group focused on establishing and operating an acute care hospital in Norwood; Steward had abandoned the under-construction facility during bankruptcy proceedings. A proposal from Rep. Sabadosa (H 2532) would create a pilot program for nonprofit therapeutic centers that offer psilocybin treatment for "mental and physical health needs." Massachusetts voters last year rejected a ballot question that would have legalized certain psychedelic substances, including psilocybin. (Monday, 9 a.m., Room A-2 |Agenda and Livestream)

SOLAR SUMMIT: Gov. Maura Healey holds a "solar summit" alongside Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper, Energy Resources Commissioner Elizabeth Mahony, other administration officials, legislators, and solar industry and labor leaders. The meeting is intended "to discuss the impact of President Trump’s rollback of bipartisan federal tax credits and how Massachusetts can bring more affordable solar power online to lower costs for residents and businesses and create jobs," according to Healey's office. The first 20 minutes of the roundtable will be open press. A media availability with Healey will follow at approximately 10:10 am. Press is asked to RSVP to maria.b.hardiman@mass.gov. ID required for entry.(Monday, 9:30 a.m., Saltonstall Building, Second Floor, 100 Cambridge St., Boston)

LAWRENCE ELECTRIC BUSES: Lawrence Public Schools host a ribbon cutting to celebrate the launch of 35 new electric school buses and minibuses. The new fleet is fully in-service for the 2025-2026 school year in Lawrence and surrounding Merrimack Valley communities. (Monday, 10 a.m., NRT Bus Facility & Charging Site, 55 Hampshire Rd., Methuen)

GRANT CELEBRATION: Mass Cultural Council holds a celebration of state investments into Greater Boston's cultural sector so far in fiscal year 2026. A speaking program includes council Executive Director Michael Bobbitt, Sen. Sal DiDomenico, MASSCreative Executive Director Emily Ruddock and others, along with performances. (Monday, 10:30 a.m., Multicultural Arts Center, 41 2nd St., Cambridge | More Info & Register)

FRAMINGHAM HUNGER ACTION: Greater Framingham Community Church marks Hunger Action Month by recognizing its partnership with DoorDash's Project DASH, which has delivered millions of meals to residents experiencing food insecurity. Senate President Spilka and Framingham Mayor Charlie Sisitsky give remarks. The program supports households who cannot access food pantries due to mobility, transportation or scheduling obstacles. (Monday, 11 a.m., Greater Framingham Community Church, 44 Franklin St., Framingham)

SENATE: Senate meets without a calendar. (Monday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber | Livestream | Agenda)

HOUSE: House meets in an informal session. (Monday, 11 a.m., House Chamber | Livestream | Calendar)

MCAS RESULTS: Department of Elementary and Secondary Education releases 2025 school and district MCAS results and accountability designations. This year’s results include a new eighth grade civics test. Announcement will not include details on any schools exiting or entering "underperforming" or "chronically underperforming" status and officials said Commissioner Martinez will evaluate each school’s status in the coming weeks. Press event includes Education Secretary Tutwiler and Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Martinez. (Monday, 11:30 a.m., Ottoson Middle School, 63 Acton St., Arlington)

SPILKA IN ASHLAND: Senate President Spilka joins the Ashland Police Department for a Senior Center luncheon at the Ashland Community Center. (Monday, 12 p.m., Ashland Community Center, Ashland)

VETERANS LEGACY TRAIL: State launches a new project cataloging more than 1,200 war memorials across Massachusetts, a signature initiative of the Massachusetts 250th anniversary commemoration. Participants include Lt. Gov. Driscoll, Veterans Services Secretary Santiago, Senate Ways and Means Chair Rodrigues, Reps. Fiola and Silvia, and Fall River Mayor Coogan. (Monday, 1 p.m., Battleship Cove, 5 Water St., Fall River)

REVENUE COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Revenue holds a public hearing on about 40 bills dealing with sales and excise taxes. Several measures look to crack down on youth nicotine addiction, including bills from Rep. Decker and Sen. Cyr (H 3075 / S 1949) by broadening the definition of "smokeless tobacco" that would be subject to an excise tax. A Rep. Kearney bill (H 4050) would establish a regulatory and tax structure tied to the adult use, support services and cultivation of psilocybin-containing fungi. Measures from Rep. Lombardo and Sen. Tarr (H 3170 / S 2086) would lower the 6.25% sales tax back to its old rate of 5%. (Monday, 1 p.m., Room A-1 | Agenda and Livestream)

SEAL, FLAG, MOTTO: Seal, Flag and Motto Advisory Commission's Educational Development Subcommittee meets. (Monday, 2 p.m. | Zoom)

PUBLIC HEALTH EXCELLENCE: Department of Public Health holds a public hearing on implementing requirements of SAPHE 2.0, or State Action for Public Health Excellence. Officials say they are seeking feedback on strategies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of local public health services. (Monday, 2 p.m. | Zoom)

HOLYOKE SAFETY ROUNDTABLE: Gov. Healey convenes state and local law enforcement and community partners for the second in a series of regional roundtable discussions about collaborative public safety strategies statewide. Participants include State Police Col. Noble, Public Safety and Security Deputy Secretary Terrey, Undersecretary for Law Enforcement Kwon, Holyoke Joshua Garcia, police officials, district attorneys and more. The start of the roundtable will be open to press, and a press availability will follow at 4 p.m., the governor's office said. (Monday, 3 p.m., MPTC Holyoke, 600 Kelly Way, Holyoke)

BEVERLY FUNDRAISER FEAT. KENNEDY: Former Congressman and U.S Special Envoy for Northern Ireland Joe Kennedy III is the special guest at a fundraising reception for Beverly councilor at large candidate Keith Sonia. (Monday, 5:30 p.m., Beverly Franco-American Club, 44 Park Street, Beverly | RSVP)

GRADUATION READINESS: Citizens for Public Schools and other organizations hold a forum for Worcester-area residents to weigh in on high school graduation requirements in light of voters scrapping the MCAS exam as a requirement. It's the third of six forums being held across the state, with gatherings held earlier this year in Cambridge and New Bedford. (Monday, 6 p.m., YWCA, 1 Salem Sq., Worcester)

LOMBARDO, SHORTSLEEVE FUDRAISER: Rep. Lombardo hosts his annual Oktoberfest fundraiser. GOP gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve is the special guest. (Monday, 6 p.m., The Pub at the Country Club of Billerica, 51 Baldwin Road, Billerica | More Info)

SPOONER GENERATIONAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT: The annual Paul W. Spooner Generational Leadership Summit will support 20 new and emerging activists who are focused on disability rights, including promoting access, inclusion and independence. During the three-day summit, participants will meet with "experienced leaders" to discuss the future of disability advocacy. "Participants leave the summit with a new outlook on their capabilities and plans for the future, and often with new professional opportunities," organizers say. (Monday-Wednesday, Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel, 181 Boston Post Road West, Marlborough | More Info)

Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025

CRISIS MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE: Mass. Lawyer's Weekly hosts a conference to "help lawyers address a range of risks, including reputational risks, public relations challenges, regulatory issues, and more." The morning's first panel, at 8:30 a.m., features former Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders of Smith, Costello & Crawford, Marcia Neiberg of Brown University Health, Liz Goodman from FTI Consulting, and Doug Brown of Manatt, moderated by Issues Management Group CEO Dan Cence. Other panels focus on cybersecurity risks and Title IX issues. (Tuesday, 8 a.m., Mass. Continuing Legal Education Conference Center, 10 Winter Place, Boston | Tickets)

BOARD OF ED: The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education meets. Commissioner Pedro Martinez will share results from the spring 2025 MCAS tests in English language arts, mathematics, and science and technology/engineering, as well as the results from the administration of the MCAS grade 8 civics test. The board will also vote on amendments to regulations ruling regional school districts. The regulations were most recently amended in 2009, and the updates would clarify local and department responsibilities for school district reorganization and streamline the department's review of proposed regional agreements. (Tuesday, 9 a.m., 135 Santilli Highway, Everett | Livestream)

HEALTH CARE FORUM: A health care costs forum is hosted by the Massachusetts Municipal Association and the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association. Lauren Peters, executive director of the Center for Health Information and Analysis, speaks about the cost landscape. A panel discussion about municipal health care costs challenges will include Paul Sweeney of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Matt Veno of the Group Insurance Commission, and Chris Bailey of the MIIA Health Benefits Trust. Attorney Timothy Zessin of KP Law will discuss the legal landscape surrounding municipal health insurance. The event is free to MMA members. (Tuesday, 9 a.m., Lake Pearl, 299 Creek St., Wrentham | Register)

NURSES ADVOCACY DAY: American Nurses Association Massachusetts holds an "Advocacy in Action" event. Members are promoting bills to establish a nursing workforce center (S 1543 / H 2397), ensure nurses are included in governing bodies of acute-care hospitals (S 1572 / H 766), and protect patients and health care workers from exposure to surgical smoke (S 1482 / H 2442). The association says key issues at the national level involve staffing, scope of practice, workplace violence and public health infrastructure. Senate President Spilka plans to speak. (Tuesday, 9:15 a.m., Great Hall)

DEP HEARING: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection holds a public hearing on proposed regulatory changes to the Operating Permit and Compliance Program. The changes would remove "emergency affirmative defense provisions" to align with recent updates to U.S. Environmental Protection regulations. The provisions had enabled parties to avoid being held liable for noncompliance with "technology-based emission limits" under certain circumstances, but federal officials scrapped them because they are "inconsistent with EPA's interpretation of the enforcement structure of the Clean Air Act in light of prior court decisions," the hearing notice says. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | Access)

GAMING COMMISSION: Mass. Gaming Commission meets to hash out issues related to sports bettor limitations. For more than a year, state gambling regulators have been interested in digging into the controversial topic of how and why sportsbooks restrict how much or how often someone can bet. The commission last fall requested player data from operators in an attempt to assess just how common the practice is, and results of that data analysis are expected to be presented to the commission Tuesday. An outside consultant from Closing Line Consulting will join the commission for a discussion of limitations generally and specifically in Massachusetts. The agenda contemplates that commissioners could conduct much of those conversations in executive session. The public portion of the meeting is expected to feature discussion of possible next steps. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Agenda and Access Info)

FIRE SERVICE COMMISSION: Fire Service Commission meets. Agenda includes a vote on credentialing and re-credentialing, and updates from the Department of Fire Services. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

LOTTERY COMMISSION: The State Lottery Commission meets. (Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. | For access call 781-917-6057 or email gpolin@masslottery.com)

EDUCATION COMMITTEE: Education Committee holds a hearing on about 35 bills dealing with charter, innovation and vocational schools. On the docket are bills to support training and education programs to prepare vocational school students for clean energy jobs (H 685), requiring charter schools to receive local approval from school districts (H 692 / S 414), as well as a number of bills considering the controversial admissions policies for vocational technical schools. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Gardner Auditorium | Agenda and Access Info)

DISH WIRELESS: Department of Telecommunications and Cable holds an evidentiary hearing on DISH Wireless's petition to be designated as an eligible telecommunications carrier. (Tuesday, 11 a.m. | More Info and Access)

PITTSFIELD DTA: Department of Transitional Assistance's Pittsfield Advisory Board meets. (Tuesday, 11 a.m. | Agenda and Access)

ECONOMIC AND FEDERAL POLICY ROUNDTABLE: Administration and Finance Secretary Gorzkowicz, House Ways and Means Chair Michlewitz, and Senate Ways and Means Chair Rodrigues hold a rare mid-year economic roundtable, as the state's top budget writers assess federal policy changes and the fiscal 2026 economic outlook. Unnamed "key experts" will participate in the discussion. State leaders will need to navigate major funding cuts and policy changes to Medicaid and SNAP under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. "This economic roundtable will help assist the Commonwealth to stay more informed on what lays ahead fiscally in the short- and long-term future," Michlewitz said in a statement. "Given the uncertainties in our economy, and the turbulence coming out of Washington, it has never been a more important time to work collaboratively and listen to experts." Real gross domestic product increased in the United States at an annual rate of 3.8% in the second quarter, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis said Thursday. In the first quarter, real GDP decreased 0.6% in the U.S. "The increase in real GDP in the second quarter primarily reflected a decrease in imports, which are a subtraction in the calculation of GDP, and an increase in consumer spending. These movements were partly offset by decreases in investment and exports," the bureau reported. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Room 428)

PUBLIC HEALTH CHANGES: Public Health Commissioner Goldstein and Local and Regional Health Director Sam Wong discuss recent legislation and funding that has realigned local and regional public health efforts "with 92% of all Massachusetts communities participating in local public health shared service arrangements to meet new public health standards." Briefing is hosted by Sen. Comerford and Rep. Kane. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Room 222 | Zoom)

VETERANS AND FEDERAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs holds a public hearing on nearly 20 bills, featuring multiple measures that look to update the definition of a veteran. A Rep. Jones bill (H 3854) would establish the Vietnam War Commemoration Fund, which would help mark the 50th anniversary of the United States withdrawing from the war that claimed the lives of more than 1,300 Massachusetts service members. A Veterans Hall of Fame Commission would be launched under a Rep. Arciero bill (H 3821), tasked with examining the feasibility of creating such a hall of fame in Massachusetts. Rep. Ayers wants Congress to declare Quincy as the "most patriotic" city in the country (H 3828). (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Room A-1 | Agenda and Livestream)

MAHANIAH AT GENESIS CLUB: Health and Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah visits Genesis Club, a mental health recovery organization that's supported by the Department of Mental Health. (Tuesday, 1:30 p.m., 274 Lincoln St., Worcester)

MAHANIAH AT WORCESTER FOOD BANK: Health and Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah visits the Worcester County Foodbank, which partners with the Department of Transitional Assistance to tackle food access. (Tuesday, 3 p.m., 474 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury)

DEP HEARING: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection holds its second public hearing of the day on updating state regulations to align with recent changes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (Tuesday, 6 p.m. | Access)

LIBERTY UTILITIES: Department of Public Utilities holds a public hearing on Liberty Utilities' petition to increase gas base distribution rates. The increase would generate nearly $56 million in additional revenues for Liberty. "According to the Company, the net effect of the request is expected to be a 55.5 percent rate increase, on average, across all customers on a total bill basis, and an increase of approximately 45.0 percent in total operating revenues," a public notice states. (Tuesday, 7 p.m., North Attleboro High School, 1 Wilson Whitty Way, North Attleboro | More Info)

BOND BUYER INFRASTRUCTURE CONFERENCE: The Bond Buyer's 2025 Infrastructure two-day conference takes place Monday and Tuesday. Treasurer Goldberg delivers a lunch keynote address on Tuesday at noon. (Monday and Tuesday, Boston Marriott Long Wharf, 296 State Street, Boston)

Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025

MASSBUDGET CONFERENCE: Mass. Budget and Policy Center hosts its inaugural policy conference, FOCUS2025, featuring several lawmakers and a keynote from former U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona. Sen. Eldridge is part of the conference's opening at 8:45 a.m., followed by Cardona at 9:10 a.m. MassBudget President Viviana Abreu-Hernandez moderates a discussion of the Bay State response to federal funding cuts that includes U.S. Rep. McGovern, Sen. Comerford and Mass. Teachers Association President Max Page at 9:55 a.m. Sen. Lewis discusses income surtax revenue spending on education as part of a panel at 11:15 a.m. At the same time, Sen. Miranda and Rep. Gonzalez discuss a push to collect more tax revenue from corporations that do business overseas, and Sen. DiDomenico and Rep. Decker take part in a panel discussion of systemic poverty. After lunch, at 1:20 p.m., Sen. R. Kennedy is part of a discussion on early education and care funding and Sen. Oliveira discusses "holding the line" on school funding equity. Rep. Montano is part of the final panel of the day, a 2:45 p.m. discussion of the state's housing crisis. (Wednesday, 8 a.m., Devens Conference Center, 31 Andrews Parkway, Devens | Tickets)

SHORTSLEEVE FISHING TOUR: Republican candidate for governor Brian Shortsleeve tours New Bedford and holds a roundtable in Fall River to meet with fishing industry leaders. (Wednesday, 8:30 a.m., Tour starts at 62 Hassey St., New Bedford | Roundtable starts at 1 p.m., H&S Tool Engineering, 777 Airport Road, Fall River)

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Energy Efficiency Advisory Council's Executive Committee meets. (Wednesday, 10 a.m. | Register)

HIGHER ED: Board of Higher Education meets. (Wednesday, 10 a.m. | Zoom)

CANNABIS COMMISSION: Cannabis Control Commission meets for the first time since Chairwoman Shannon O'Brien was reinstated after about two years away. Agenda is expected to feature licensing review and approvals, an overview of the commission's 2025 goals, and working group updates. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Agenda and Access Info)

CONSUMER PROTECTION AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure holds a public hearing on about 30 bills dealing with data, solicitation, advertising, technology and retail and local alcohol measures. Legislation from Rep. Fluker-Reid and Sen. Edwards (H 369 / S 226) looks to protect Black girls from "targeted toxicity" by blocking ads aimed at children under age 18 for cosmetic products that contain harmful ingredients, including products for skin lightening and hair relaxation. Rep. Scanlon's ABBA Bill -- or a Big Beautiful Brunch Act -- would allow alcohol sales starting at 8 a.m. on Sundays, instead of the current 10 a.m. A Sen. Finegold bill (S 243) would require chatbots, AI agents or other computer technology to provide consumer notifications if they engage in a "textual or aural conversation." (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Room A-2 | Agenda and Livestream)

GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL - COLEMAN: Governor's Council holds a hearing on Gov. Healey's nomination of Tonomey Coleman to the District Court. He's currently the acting chair of the Massachusetts Parole Board. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Council Chamber | Livestream)

BREAST CANCER: Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators, Sen. Rush, and breast cancer support organization Ellie Fund host a kickoff event for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The program includes a discussion of the challenges and policy solutions to address disparities in breast cancer care. (Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Grand Staircase)

FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Financial Services holds a public hearing on two dozen bills dealing with health insurance. Legislation from Rep. Gregoire and Sen. Finegold (H 1181 / S 759) would require health insurers with excess reserves to direct some of the surplus to health safety net programs. A Sen. Driscoll bill (S 728) would block the Group Insurance Commission or private health insurers from requiring alternative treatments before approving doctor-recommended infertility treatment. Small businesses in pooled markets could see lower premium costs under a Sen. Moore proposal (S 798). (Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Room B-2 | Agenda and Livestream)

RESEARCH FORUM: Researchers and Nobel Prize recipients from Mass General Brigham will discuss the impact of their work on issues from Alzheimer’s to cancer at a forum hosted in partnership with Sen. Friedman. Event will include a Q&A. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Room 428)

GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL - FABIANO: Governor's Council holds a hearing on Gov. Healey's nomination of Mark Fabiano to the District Court. Fabiano is assistant clerk-magistrate at Wrentham District Court, and previously founded Fabiano Law Firm. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Council Chamber | Livestream)

GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL: Governor's Council meets for its weekly assembly, and could vote on confirming both Timothy Horan and Lyonel Jean-Pierre Jr. to the Probate & Family Court. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., Council Chamber | Livestream)

AMGEN CEO AT BC LUNCHEON: Amgen Chairman and CEO Robert Bradway is the featured speaker at a Boston College Chief Executives Club luncheon. The multinational biopharmaceutical company based in California reported $33.4 billion in revenues for 2024 and employs more than 28,000 people. Bradway, who became Amgen CEO in May 2012 and chairman in January 2013, will discuss his career, leadership philosophy and the future of health care innovation in a fireside chat with Wellington Management CEO & Managing Partner Jean Hynes. Luncheon at noon, chat at 1 p.m. Media asked to RSVP to ed.hayward@bc.edu. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., Hilton Boston Park Plaza, Georgian Room, 50 Park Plaza, Boston)

LEGISLATIVE ENGAGEMENT: Massachusetts Platform for Legislative Engagement (MAPLE) hosts a demonstration for advocates, legislators, staffers and others of its platform. Demo will be followed by a panel discussion among tech experts and advocates who have used MAPLE. The platform, an initiative of Partners in Democracy, allows people and groups to submit testimony to legislative committees and archives that testimony for public review. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., Great Hall | Register)

HEALTH CARE AFFORDABILITY: Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association holds a webinar spotlighting AblePay, a patient financial engagement program that looks to help people save on out-of-pocket expenses. The discussion will explore state and federal efforts to address patient medical debt, and how lack of health care knowledge can affect what patients pay. (Wednesday, 12 p.m. | Register)

HEALTH CONNECTOR: Massachusetts Health Connector hosts a webinar featuring an open enrollment overview and a demonstration of shopping tools. Open enrollment starts on Nov. 1. Attendees will learn about health plan options, carriers that participate in heavily subsidized ConnectorCare plans, and recent eligibility changes. (Wednesday, 12 p.m. | Register)

PENCE AT KENNEDY INSTITUTE: Former Vice President Mike Pence participates in a conversation at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate about "populism, conservatism, and civility." The event, which is free and open to the public, is moderated by Meghan McCain. Organizers say the event "will explore the challenges of governing in an era of drastically polarized politics, the importance of civic dialogue in sustaining democracy, and the future of the Republican Party." (Wednesday, 1 p.m., Columbia Point, 210 Morrissey Blvd., Boston | Register)

CLEAN WATER TRUST: Clean Water Trust Board of Trustees meets. (Wednesday, 1:30 p.m. | Zoom)

EARLY LITERACY CEREMONY: Ribbon-cutting for Aicardi Early Steps, a new afterschool literacy intervention program at Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston meant to target the opportunity gap for young readers in Boston. Curry College alumnus Thomas Aicardi provided support for Curry to develop a curriculum geared towards students who are reading at a beginning 1st through 2nd grade level. Sen. Miranda and Rep. Holmes participate. (Wednesday, 4 p.m., Berkshire Partners Blue Hill Club, 15 Talbot Ave., Dorchester)

LIBERTY UTILITIES: Department of Public Utilities holds its second public hearing of the week about Liberty Utilities' petition to raise gas base distribution rates. (Wednesday, 7 p.m., Blackstone-Millville Region High School, 176 Lincoln St, Blackstone | More Info)

Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025

SENATE: Senate meets in an informal session. (Thursday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber)

HOUSE: House could meet in an informal session. (Thursday, 11 a.m., House Chamber)

POST COMMISSION WEBINAR: Massachusetts Municipal Association holds a members-only webinar about the Peace Office Standards and Training Commission. There will be a panel discussion with POST Commission Executive Director Enrique Zuniga, Eric Atstupenas of the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association and Norwood Police Chief Christopher Padden. (Thursday, 12 p.m. | Register)

MBTA BUS: The 55 Bus Route Coalition holds a ride-along and rally, as senior and local officials ride the MBTA #55 bus from Fenway to Arlington Street. They'll then gather at MBTA headquarters (10 Park Plaza) at 2:15 p.m. to call for extended hours and a return to the Park Street route. The MBTA cut the bus route in 2020 during the pandemic. The route has since been partially restored, though it runs only from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and ends at Copley instead of Park Street. The MBTA is planning to extend bus hours from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and advocates want that scheduling change implemented as soon as possible. "The #55 bus is an essential lifeline for Fenway residents, especially seniors and those with accessibility needs, and extended hours are key to ensuring reliable access to essential destinations," Rep. Livingstone said. "I am proud to have championed this issue and secured the MBTA's commitment to maintaining and strengthening this vital service, which advances equitable transit access in our community." (Thursday, 1:15 p.m., Queensberry Street at Jersey Street stop near 115 Jersey St., Boston)

AUTOMOTIVE EDUCATION: Workforce Skills Cabinet representatives and local legislators tour and participate in a ribbon-cutting for the newly expanded automotive education facility at Mount Wachusett Community College. The project was funded by a Massachusetts Skills Capital grant and a significant grant from the Alden Trust. (Thursday, 1:30 p.m., 42 Linus Allain Ave., Gardner)

CONSERVATION AND CUISINE: The Nature Conservancy and GreenCrabs.org hold a free public event called "Conservation and Cuisine," which will spotlight how an invasive crab species is being transformed into a "delicacy." James Beard Award semifinalist Tracy Chang, who owns PAGU restaurant in Cambridge, will introduce dishes that include green crabs. The event also includes a touch tank with green crabs, and Polkadog will have pet-friendly treats containing green crabs. (Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Dewey Square Plaza on the Greenway, next to Night Shift Brewing | More Info)

Friday, Oct. 3, 2025

DCR STEWARDSHIP: Department of Conservation and Recreation's Stewardship Council Stakeholders Committee meets. Agenda includes an update on hiring and strategic partnerships. (Friday, 8 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

MMA MIDDLEBOROUGH BREAKFAST: Massachusetts Municipal Association holds a legislative breakfast. MMA staffers will discuss recent action on Beacon Hill, including the enhanced Chapter 90 bond law. (Friday, 8:30 a.m., Middleborough Town Hall, 10 Nickerson Ave., Middleborough | Register)

MMA ATHOL BREAKFAST: Massachusetts Municipal Association holds a legislative breakfast in Athol. (Friday, 8:30 a.m., Athol Public Library, 568 Main St., Athol | Register)

REVENUE COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Revenue holds a public hearing on about 30 bills dealing with corporations. Agenda features legislation from Rep. González and Sen. Lewis (H 3110 / S 2033) that seeks a corporate "fair share policy" by more heavily taxing businesses that use "offshore tax havens." The influential Raise Up Coalition backs the bills, which supporters say could yield hundreds of millions of dollars in new revenue as the state grapples with sweeping federal funding challenges. Other legislation from Lewis and Rep. Uyterhoeven (S 2026 / H 3261) would subject businesses to a heftier tax if an executive or the highest paid employee's pay exceeds a certain threshold. A Rep. Soter bill (H 3248) would grant an income tax exemption to new manufacturing companies for the first five years of operations. (Friday, 10 a.m., Gardner Auditorium | Agenda and Livestream)

PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT: Executive Office of Health and Human Services holds a public hearing on proposed rate increases for psychiatric day treatment center services. The annual aggregate cost will be roughly $70,000. (Friday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Livestream)

MASSHEALTH MANAGED CARE: MassHealth holds a public hearing on proposed changes to managed care requirements. The changes replace outdated terminology and update eligibility for One Care and Senior Care Options plans, update copay requirements and clarify requirements for members who transfer managed care plans. The regulation would go into effect no earlier than Jan. 1, 2026. (Friday, 11 a.m. | More Info and Access)

ADULT FOSTER CARE: MassHealth holds a public hearing on an emergency regulation that took effect on Sept. 12 for adult foster care. It requires that providers at the time of accreditation or re-accreditation must be delivering adult foster care or group adult foster care services to at least eight individuals in order to "efficiently" provide care. (Friday, 12 p.m. | More Info and Access)

JUSTICE-INVOLVED WOMEN: Panel on Justice-Involved Women meets. Agenda includes a presentation from the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators Justice-Involved Women Task Force, and a 2025 report and review of draft recommendations. (Friday, 1 p.m. | Agenda and Access)

LONG-TERM CARE SERVICES: MassHealth holds a public hearing on an emergency regulation that took effect on Sept. 8 dealing with long-term care services, specifically for nursing facilities that have had an ownership change. The regulatory change allows facilities that are enrolling in MassHealth to conditionally enroll once their Medicare certification is complete. "If the facility does not receive Medicare certification within nine months of the conditional enrollment, MassHealth payments will be suspended until such time as the Medicare certification is complete," the hearing notice says. (Friday, 2 p.m. | More Info and Access)

SEPTEMBER REVENUES: Department of Revenue is due to report on tax collections for the month of September, which Senate budget chief Michael Rodrigues has said will be "telling." Fiscal year 2026-to-date tax receipts were up 3.3% over last year through August, but state officials are cautiously eyeing potential impacts from federal government priority shifts and stagnant job growth here. DOR said September is the third or fourth most significant month for state revenue collections. The monthly benchmarks that DOR has now established for fiscal 2026 anticipate $4.663 billion in September tax revenue, which would be $198 million more than was collected last September. Through Sept. 15, DOR had collected $2.407 billion, it told lawmakers last week. That's $160 million or 6.3% less than collections from the same period in of September 2024. (Friday)

Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025

FOREST FIRES: Community Land and Water Coalition hosts a presentation and panel discussion of the myths and realities of forest fires in Massachusetts. Speakers will address the use of controlled burns on state lands. Since 1911, when the state Bureau of Forest Fire Control began a wildfire mission, the average size burn has been reduced from more than 34 acres to 1.17 acres on average, the state said, "while the state has tripled the area of its wooded lands, more people have built homes within forested environments, and recreational opportunities in the Commonwealth’s many forests and parks have grown enormously." A lunch and reception with the speakers follows (at a price of $35 per person). (Saturday, Oct. 4, 10:30 a.m., The Gallery Room at Plimoth Patuxet, 137 Warren Ave., Plymouth | Register)

MASS-CARE COOKOUT: The Mass-Care Single Payer Campaign, which advocates for a single payer health care system in the commonwealth, holds a "solidarity cookout." Organizers say they are fighting against the "profits over people" health care model, and promoting "Medicare for All" bills sponsored by Reps. Sabadosa and Scarsdale and Sen. Eldridge (H 1405 / S 860). The legislation has failed to gain traction on Beacon Hill. The Health Care Financing Committee, which heard the bills at a June 18 hearing, secured an long extension -- until March 18, 2026 -- to take action on the House proposal. The cookout runs through 2:30 p.m. (Saturday, Oct. 4, Larz Anderson Shelter, Goddard Avenue and Newton St., Brookline | Ticket)

ASHLAND CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Senate President Spilka presents citations to the Ashland Citizen of the Year and the Ashland Day Grand Marshal. (Saturday, Oct. 4, Ashland)