People, Power and Politics

.The Senate on Thursday approved legislation to boost animal safety and equity for pet owners. Senators voted 38-0 to pass the bill (S 3014) which bans the retail sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in pet shops. Violators could face fines up to $5,000 that would go into a Homeless Animal Prevention and Care Fund. It also expands the state’s anti-cruelty law to cover all household pets and violators could incur fines up to $500 for the third offense as well as potentially lose ownership of animals.

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!

The snow has mostly disappeared and signs of spring are budding around us

The Planning Board is scheduled to meet on Monday. Key discussion around the minor zoning bylaw adjustments needed; 2 for the Crossing Neighborhood District and 2 for the final changes required to bring our changes into compliance with the MBTA Communities effort.

The Town Council is anticipated to have a detailed discussion when they come back to them for their own public hearings and discussion. This would be the first time for any zoning discussions for this Council, and they indicated a willingness to get into details as these 4 measures came up initially to get referred to the Planning Board.

The School Committee returns to a 7 PM timeslot to start on Tuesday which enables their budget subcommittee to meet at 6 PM. Lifelong Community Learning is scheduled for an update to the full committee. (The Town Council just announced their subcommittee structures last week, now they’ll need to find time for their subcommittees to meet.)

The 250 Celebration subcommittee on Events & Logistics planning meets on Wednesday at 7. They have a good list of events on the agenda to open and eventually close the celebration during 2028.

The Conservation Commission is scheduled to meet on Thursday to close out this week of meetings.

For all the meetings and cultural events, check out the calendar at Franklin.news where each day, that day's events are posted on the top of the page, the TV and radio schedules are on the bottom, and all the other goodness falls in-between.

*** Meeting schedule and agendas as of Town page 3/20/26, 8:30 PM ***

Planning Board Meeting

Monday, March 23 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03232026-2196

Franklin School Committee - Budget Subcommittee Meeting

Tuesday, March 24 Time: 6:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03242026-2200

Franklin School Committee Meeting

Tuesday, March 24 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03242026-2201

Council on Aging Board Meeting

Wednesday, March 25 Time: 11:00 AM

No agenda available at this time

250th Anniversary Celebration Committee Subcommittee on Events & Logistics Meeting

Wednesday, March 25 Time: 7:30 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03252026-2194

Conservation Commission Meeting

Thursday, March 26 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/577?fileID=8621

*** Looking back at the week that was ***

A light meeting week for the live broadcast crew. The Town Council and School Committee met in a joint session on Wednesday. The recap and video is available

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/03/joint-meeting-of-town-council-school.html The audio should be available shortly.

The Board of Health added a meeting on Wednesday to have a discussion to consider banning some currently unregulated substances that are mind altering. Other communities have begun to take action. The Board next meeting will likely provide additional info and schedule a public hearing to gather input before taking action. The exclusive audio should be ready Sunday at Franklin.news

Two All Town Showcase concerts were broadcast from FHS

The chorus and orchestra - https://www.youtube.com/live/X0fnL4c5etM?&t=865

The band - https://www.youtube.com/live/5wgggEBn8iE?&t=204

On the All Access front, the MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau Symposium held on February 26, 2026 is available for viewing. Lots of good info on the planning for the World Cup included. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WDcHFPfpfU

For all the meetings and cultural events, check out the calendar at Franklin.news where each day, that day's events are posted on the top of the page, the TV and radio schedules are on the bottom, and all the other goodness falls in-between.

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.

STATE HOUSE and BEYOND

The 2026 session is suddenly shaping up as an unending clash between frustrated voters and frustrated legislators, who at seemingly every turn are finding fault with the reforms and policies that the people want to get approved on the November ballot. The evolving situation adds a major wildcard to this fall's elections with ballot questions driving a wedge between incumbents and outsiders, who face the challenge of fielding enough candidates to cause the types of change they are seeking. Nomination signatures for district and county office candidates are due locally by April 28 and by May 5 for party candidates running for federal or statewide office. The Legislature in the week ahead plans hearings on ballot questions dealing with land conservation and recreational marijuana as well as three more annual budget hearings -- Monday in Lawrence (education and local aid), Tuesday in Foxborough (public safety and judiciary) and Friday in Clinton (health and human services). House Democrats are closing in on an annual budget proposal for consideration in late April, and hope before then to pass a bill focusing on due process and other protections for immigrants in the face of aggressive immigration law enforcement by ICE. Both the PROTECT Act and the budget will need to move through the House Ways and Means Committee before hitting the floor of the House. Both branches have approved cannabis regulation and oversight reform bills (S 2749, H 4206) as well as early literacy overhauls (H 4683, S 2940) but those priorities remain before six-person conference committees. The literacy reform conference is about a month old and the cannabis bills have been in talks for nearly three months so it appears there are either hangups or a lack of urgency around that topic.

Sunday, March 22, 2026

HEALEY ON KELLER: Gov. Healey joins WBZ's rebooted "Keller At Large" segment with political analyst Jon Keller. (Sunday, 8:30 a.m., WBZ-TV)

GOODLANDER ON NBC: U.S. Rep. Maggie Goodlander, a New Hampshire Democrat, joins NBC 10 reporter Matt Prichard on the network's weekly "@ Issue Sit Down." (Sunday, 9:30 a.m., NBC 10)

GULLIVER ON THE RECORD: State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver is the guest on WCVB's weekly political talk show, "On the Record." (Sunday, 11 a.m., WCVB-TV)

CAPE VERDEAN-JEWISH SEDER: Community members gather for the 20th annual Cape Verdean-Jewish Passover Seder, marking two decades of cultural connection and shared history between the two groups, with music and speakers. (Sunday, 2 p.m., Thelma D. Burns Building, 575 Warren St., Roxbury)

Monday, March 23, 2026

ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD: Architectural Access Board meets. Members will review incoming cases for buildings in Framingham, New Bedford, Cambridge, Belmont, Lexington, East Boston, Canton and Westford. (Monday, 9 a.m. | Agenda and Access)

DISRUPTING POVERTY: The nonprofit Economic Mobility Pathways hosts its four-day Disrupting Poverty Conference, bringing together more than 400 practitioners, policymakers, philanthropists and academics from around the world. The first day includes a welcome address from EMPath CEO Kim Janey, the former mayor of Boston. Attorney General Campbell and United Way of Massachusetts Bay CEO Marty Martinez participate in a session at 3 p.m. about protecting families and basic needs. Other sessions focus on strategies to fix the benefits cliff, centering caregivers in ending childhood hunger, and building social capital for economic mobility, among other topics. (Monday, 9 a.m., Boston University, George Sherman Union, 775 Commonwealth Ave., Boston | More Info)

FANEUIL HALL FUTURE: Boston Mayor Wu convenes city planners, business leaders and historians to discuss "the future of Faneuil Hall Marketplace." The event will feature a series of panel discussions and a speech from Mayor Wu about "the district's importance, expectations for long-term stewardship, and the City's broader ambitions." Speakers will discuss how the district's layout and design could be reimagined with economic development in mind, "while also highlighting the civic significance and symbolic role of the Marketplace," according to Wu's office. (Monday, 9:15 a.m., Great Room, Faneuil Hall, Boston)

PIONEER VALLEY MOSQUITO CONTROL: Pioneer Valley Mosquito Control District Commission meets. Agenda includes a discussion on potential regional coordination and outreach tied to rural service needs, and a fiscal 2027 budget review and potential vote. Members will also vote on pay increases for returning seasonal staff. (Monday, 10 a.m. | Agenda and Zoom)

COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH: Joint Committee on Public Health holds a public hearing on four bills. Rep. Badger and Sen. Lovely bills (H 5013, S 2928) would establish a three-year pilot program to evaluate the potential of including celiac disease screening by health care providers when conducting screenings of cholesterol and lipids for 12-year-olds. A Rep. Hogan bill (H 5115) would task the public health commissioner with establishing regulations for annual food truck health inspections, and a Rep. Peisch bill (H 5087) aims to regulate the operation of medical spas. (Monday, 10 a.m., Room B-1 | More Info and Access)

SENATE: Senate meets in an informal session with plans to again take up a bill that would tighten state regulation of so-called hot work like welding, cutting, brazing or other flame-producing operations. The Sen. Collins bill (S 1646) is identical to a bill the Senate unanimously passed two years ago to mark the 10-year anniversary of a fatal fire in the Back Bay that was reportedly sparked by welders working on a brownstone building. (Monday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber | Agenda | Livestream)

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

FY 2027 BUDGET HEARING: Joint Committee on Ways and Means holds a hearing focused on education and local aid funding included in Gov. Healey's $63.38 billion fiscal 2027 budget proposal. Healey's proposal fully funds the final year of the Student Opportunity Act with $7.6 billion in Chapter 70 aid, representing a $242 million increase over fiscal 2026. It would guarantee a minimum per-pupil aid of $75 for all school districts, according to the administration. The proposal allocates $20 million to rural school aid, an increase from the $8 million allocated in fiscal 2026. Healey is also seeking an additional $154.3 million to reimburse school districts for a portion of transportation costs and is proposing full funding for the Special Education Circuit Breaker at $802.7 million, which her office said would allow for the full phase-in of reimbursements for the costs of transporting out-of-district special education students. Healey's budget would dedicate $10.4 billion to local aid, representing a $438.5 million, or 4.4%, increase over fiscal 2026's budget. The sum includes a 2.5% increase for unrestricted general government aid to cities and towns. Together with health and human services spending and debt service, unrestricted local aid, Chapter 70 school aid and other education spending make up about 80% of Healey's proposal. Representatives of the following agencies are scheduled to testify: Executive Office of Education, including the Department of Early Education and Care, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and Department of Higher Education. (Monday, 11 a.m., Lawrence High School Performing Arts Center | More Info and Access)

COMMITTEE ON INITIATIVE PETITIONS - NATURE FOR ALL FUND: Special Joint Committee on Initiative Petitions holds a public hearing on the measure (H 5005) that would steer sales tax revenue from sporting goods like golf clubs, RVs and camping gear into a new "Nature for All Fund.” The proposed initiative could generate $100 million annually for water and nature conservation and restoration efforts, according to the "Nature for Massachusetts" coalition of organizations that is backing the proposal. Mass Audubon, The Trustees, Massachusetts Rivers Alliance and The Nature Conservancy are among coalition members. Funding from the sales tax revenue would go to conserving and restoring land to protect drinking water, streams, rivers, lakes, coasts, farms and forests. Funding could also support the conservation and restoration of land and natural resources of “indigenous cultural significance," according to the petition. The proposal would also create a 15-member oversight board tasked with setting rules on how the money should be allocated. The coalition is also backing similar legislation (H 901 / S 597) that has been filed with lawmakers and has bipartisan support. “Our hope would be that the Legislature passes this bill. But if they don't, we'll go to the ballot and we'll win there," Mass Audubon CEO and President David O'Neill said in December. The Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources reported a version of one of the bills (S 2571) out favorably in August, and it has sat in Senate Ways and Means since. (Monday, 11 a.m., Room A-1 | More Info and Access)

HAMPDEN COUNTY GRANT CELEBRATION: Mass Cultural Council holds an event to celebrate investments made in Hampden County's cultural sector. The program includes remarks from the council's Acting Executive Director David Slatery, Chair Ché Anderson and Vice-Chair Jo-Ann Davis, Reps. Arriaga, Duffy and Gonzalez, MASSCreative Executive Director Emily Ruddock, MassHumanities Executive Director Brian Boyles, and Common Wealth Murals Executive Director Britt Ruhe. The event is also slated to feature creative performances. (Monday, 1 p.m., El Mercado Local, 413 Main St., Holyoke | More Info and Register)

COMMITTEE ON INITIATIVE PETITIONS - MARIJUANA REPEAL: Special Joint Committee on Initiative Petitions holds a public hearing on the measure (H 5002) that would repeal adult-use recreational marijuana. The initiative has experienced some turbulence since being certified by the secretary of state's office, as it was challenged in January on the basis of concerns about how proponents collected signatures. The State Ballot Law Commission later rejected the challenge. The proposal, which would preserve medical use marijuana, is being backed by the Coalition for a Healthy Massachusetts. It's being opposed by a group called the Committee to Protect Cannabis Regulation. In 2016, 53.7% of voters cast their ballots in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana, while 46.3% of voters opposed it, according to data from Secretary of State Bill Galvin's office. The Bay State Poll, conducted by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center and released late February, found that 20% of respondents expressed support for the proposal, with 63% opposed and 16% not sure or neutral. (Monday, 2 p.m., Room A-1 | More Info and Access)

SENATE ART COMMITTEE: Senate Art Committee meets (Monday, 2 p.m., Senate Reading Room)

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS CONFERENCE: The nonprofit Helping Everyone Live Prosperously, or HELP by AMG, holds a “Know Your Rights” conference ahead of Trans Day of Visibility in collaboration with Trans Resistance MA, Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition and The Queer Neighborhood Council. The event is meant to provide members of the trans, nonbinary and gender-expansive community with legal, social and medical resources. There will be workshops led by experts, a resource and advocacy fair and on-site legal support. The conference is free and open to the public. (Monday, 3 p.m., The Boston Foundation at 75 Arlington St., Boston)

PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS: Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts holds its annual A. Michael Mullane Legislator's Night. Treasurer Goldberg attends. Auditor DiZoglio is slated to speak. (Monday, 6 p.m., Florian Hall, 55 Hallet St., Dorchester)

NATIONAL GRID RATES: Department of Public Utilities hold a public hearing on National Grid's plan to increase gas distribution rates, which would generate about $342 million in new revenue. (Monday, 7 p.m., 316 Hancock St., North Quincy | More Info)

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

BRENSLEY FUNDRAISER: Republican candidate for lieutenant governor Anne Brensley hosts a day-long phone-a-thon to raise the funds required for her to give a speech at the Massachusetts Republican Convention. Under the party's rules, candidates for lieutenant governor must raise $25,000 to speak at the convention, according to Brensley's campaign. The phone-a-thon begins at 7 a.m. and continues until 10 p.m. (Tuesday)

WOMEN IN POLITICS: Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy at University of Massachusetts Boston holds “In This Moment: Women of Color Driving Change for Equity” which is focused on transformative leadership, building movements and collective well-being. The meeting will bring together women, youth, people of color and supporters and feature the release of a report “Carrying the Weight, Leading the Change: How Women of Color Grassroots Leaders Navigate Inequities While Driving Solutions” that was created in collaboration with the Boston’s Women’s Fund. Adjoa Asamoah, a social impact strategist with expertise in racial equity and systems change will give a keynote address. There will be morning and afternoon workshops and for each session, participants can select one of four sessions to attend. A healing room with practices led by wellness practitioners, healers and educators will be available throughout the day. Following the meeting, there will be a reception starting at 5:15 p.m. (Tuesday, 8 a.m., UMass Club, 32nd floor, 1 Beacon St., Boston |More Info and Registration)

BUILDING ENERGY BOSTON: North East Sustainable Energy Association holds BuildingEnergy Boston, a two-day conference meant for practitioners of high-performance building and design, energy efficiency and renewable energy. There will be product demonstrations, networking and sessions on best practices, case studies, emerging technologies and policies, among other topics. The conference’s theme is “Don’t Stop Us Now.” (Tuesday, 8 a.m., Westin Boston Seaport District at 425 Summer St., Boston | More Info and Registration)

BOARD OF ED: The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education holds its monthly meeting. The board will discuss and possibly vote on amendments to regulations to expand alternative licensure pathways for educators, and get a mid-year report from the State Student Advisory Council. Commissioner Pedro Martinez will report on recent grant approvals, charter school renewals, and give a quarterly report on chronically underperforming schools. (Tuesday, 9 a.m., 135 Santilli Highway, Everett | Livestream)

BUILDING CODE APPEALS: Building Code Appeals Board holds virtual hearings on cases in Hudson, Cambridge, Cotuit and Newburyport. (Tuesday, 9 a.m. | Agenda and Access)

BUSINESS OWNER REPORT: Bank of America presents its 2025 Business Owner Report, which explores the perspectives, priorities and concerns of small and mid-sized businesses owners across the country. The event is hosted by Small Business Strong, an initiative of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. (Tuesday, 9 a.m., 100 Federal St. | Register)

CITIZENS' LEGISLATIVE SEMINAR - DAY ONE: Senate Office of Education and Civic Engagement hosts the annual Citizens' Legislative Seminar, which aims to better educate members of the public — who apply to the program and are nominated by their senator — on the functions of the Legislature. The first day of the program includes an overview of the formal legislative process by Sen. Friedman and Senate Clerk Michael Hurley, as well as an overview of the informal legislative process by Sen. Rush. Senate Ways and Means Chair Rodrigues presents about the budget and fiscal policy, and Sen. O'Connor presents about the role of the minority party. Sen. Crighton leads a simulated joint legislative hearing. Senate President Spilka speaks to participants in the Senate Reading Room at lunch. (Tuesday, 9:30 a.m., Room 428 | More Info)

GAMING COMMISSION: Massachusetts Gaming Commission holds a public hearing on regulatory changes tied to adjudicatory proceedings, the application process for individual and vendor licenses, internal controls for restricted patrons, funding to make sport wagers, and approved methods to fund a sports wagering account. (Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. | More Info and Access)

JOINT COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS: Joint Committee on Ways and Means holds a fiscal 2027 budget hearing focused on public safety and the Judiciary. The hearing, chaired by Sen. Feeney and Rep. Biele, is held in Foxborough, where local, state and federal officials are coordinating public safety efforts surrounding seven FIFA World Cup matches stretching from June 13 to July 9. Testimony is expected from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, district attorneys, sheriffs, judges, the Office of Campaign Finance, the POST Commission, the Committee for Public Counsel Services, the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, victim and witness assistance, and the Disabled Persons Protection Commission. Gov. Healey's budget proposes about $1.72 billion for EOPSS, compared to $1.65 billion appropriated in the current state budget. It includes $570 million for State Police, a nearly $18 million increase over fiscal 2026. This year's budgeting for county sheriffs could reignite tensions from last fiscal year, when sheriffs sought to close a $110 million budget gap. Lawmakers deferred appropriating the sheriffs' full request and instructed Inspector General Jeff Shapiro to scrutinize fiscal 2025 expenditures. Shapiro's preliminary report this month concluded that budgeting for 14 county sheriffs has "become opaque, chaotic, and deeply flawed," which is partly caused by the Legislature routinely underfunding accounts. Healey recommends $109 million for the Committee for Public Counsel Services, which consists of public defenders who represent indigent clients; projected spending for the entity this fiscal year is $89 million. Lawmakers appropriated $40 million for the committee last year to support a hiring blitz and reduce the state's reliance on private bar advocate attorneys after a work stoppage resulted in hundreds of cases getting dismissed. An initiative petition that could go before voters this November would enable CPCS employees to unionize. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Foxboro Community Center, 76 Main St., Foxborough | More Info and Access)

XYLAZINE COMMISSION: Special Commission on Xylazine meets. Members will discuss and vote on the final report. The commission is tasked with recommending best practices to regulate and oversee the production of xylazine, decide whether xylazine should be classified as a controlled substance and appropriate penalties for production and distribution, and the availability of outreach and treatment programs. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Livestream)

RETIREMENT BOARD: Massachusetts Retirement Board meets. Treasurer Goldberg chairs. For access, contact MSRBCommunications@tre.state.ma.us. (Thursday, 10 a.m.)

PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS: AdMeTech Foundation holds the 17th annual prostate cancer awareness day virtually, meant to recognize prostate cancer as a public health priority and expand research, education, awareness and access to high quality care. Keynote speakers are Senate President Spilka and House Speaker Mariano, and the event is hosted by Sen. Payano and Reps. Consalvo, Garballey and Williams. Speakers include other lawmakers, AdMe Tech leaders, representatives from Massachusetts NAACP chapters as well as Urban League, medical professors and physicians. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Access)

SENATE COMMITTEE ON POST AUDIT AND OVERSIGHT: Senate Committee on Post Audit and Oversight conducts an oversight hearing on the botched MassDOT service plaza operator procurement. Inspector General Jeff Shapiro, Interim Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phil Eng, and Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver will testify, according to Chair Sen. Montigny's office. MassDOT last June selected Irish retailer Applegreen to redevelop and manage 18 service plazas across the state, but the company ultimately backed out of contract talks amid escalating tension from rival bidder Global Partners. At an oversight hearing in February, Shapiro said Massachusetts "is fortunate that the procurement was canceled." MassDOT this month opened a new procurement into the service plaza that incorporates more oversight guardrails. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Room B-2 | More Info and Access)

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION ADVOCACY: Alzheimer’s Association holds a day of advocacy and awareness. Participants will share personal stories on Alzheimer’s and encourage lawmakers to support legislation aimed at preparing the state for the future of Alzheimer's detection and increased access to early detection tools. There will be a panel discussion on care and treatment, recent and emerging research as well as the need for policy change. Panelists include Rep. Danielle Gregoire, Sen. Adam Gomez, a patient living with Alzheimer's and expert clinicians from Massachusetts General Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Great Hall)

JOINT COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION: Joint Committee on Education holds an informational hearing on career and technical education offerings in Quincy, industry integration and workforce partnerships. The hearing will also focus on the MyCAP initiative, which is a state education framework for college, career and civic readiness; MyCAP also features a portal to help with students' development, including around career exploration. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Quincy High School, 100 Coddington St., Quincy | More Info and Livestream)

JOINT COMMITTEE ON ELECTION LAWS: Joint Committee on Election Laws holds a hearing on bills affecting local matters in Marlborough and Stow. A Rep. Vitolo bill (H 5086) aims to align Massachusetts law with the federal Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022, which deals with the process for casting and counting electoral votes for president and vice president. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Room A-1 | Agenda and Livestream)

ELEVATOR REGS: Board of Elevator Regulations meets and discusses variance petitions from properties in Cambridge and Boston. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., 1 Federal St., Sixth floor, Boston | Agenda and Access)

EARLY ED DATA: Data Advisory Commission on Early Education and Care meets. (Tuesday, 1:30 p.m. | Livestream)

YOUTH SPORTS: Youth Sports Working Group meets. Members will discuss and potentially vote on subcommittee reports. (Tuesday, 2 p.m. | Agenda and Access)

OPERATIONAL SERVICES: Operational Services Division holds a bidders' conference about a contract for network services, communication services and related equipment. (Tuesday, 2 p.m. | Register)

OLDER ADULTS RURAL CARE: The Rural Health Transformation Program hosts a virtual policy briefing on expanding access to rural health care for older adults. The national group will lead the discussion on how different states direct funds to expand access to age-friendly care, and how policymakers can expand and monitor access. (Tuesday, 2 p.m. | Virtual Access)

BOSTON TEACHERS RALLY: Boston Teachers Union rallies ahead of City Council budget hearing, to push back against proposed cuts that they say would eliminate more than 400 positions across the district. The union is calling on Mayor Wu and the Boston City Council to invest an additional 1% of the city's operating budget (approximately $48 million) to maintain current school services. (Tuesday, 5 p.m., Boston City Hall, 1 City Hall Square Boston)

ALLSTON MULTIMODAL TASK FORCE: MassDOT holds a hybrid Allston Multimodal Transportation Project Task Force meeting. (Tuesday, 6 p.m., MassDOT Board Room, 2nd Floor, 10 PArk Plaza, Boston | More Info and Register)

DUXBURY INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS: MassDOT holds a virtual public meeting to provide information about a project that involves safety and geometric improvements at the intersections of Summer Street (Route 53) with Franklin Street and High Street in Duxbury. (Tuesday, 6 p.m. | More Info and Access)

ATHOL INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS: MassDOT hosts a virtual public hearing about a proposed project in Athol that consists of a single lane roundabout at Route 2A and Brookside Road and shared-use paths along the outside of the roundabout, with curb ramps to allow connection to on-street bicycle lanes on South Main Street. (Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. | More Info and Register)

A LOOK AT HARVARD RESEARCH: Crimson Courage, a group made up of "Harvard Alumni for Academic Freedom," hosts a webinar looking at "how research and grants work at Harvard University and why the cuts from the Trump administration are so detrimental to all levels of the Harvard community, including faculty, students and staff." Speakers include Assistant Professor of Medicine, Global Health and Social Medicine Dr. Margaret Bourdeaux, Astrophysics Professor David Charbonneau, and Professor of the Culture of Medicine David Jones. (Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. | Register)

GOVERNOR’S CONFERENCE ON TOURISM (DAY 1): Tourism and hospitality leaders gather for the opening day of the Massachusetts Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism, with a focus on preparing for visitors attending events like the FIFA World Cup matches in Foxborough, the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, and the return of Tall Ships to Boston Harbor. Officials and industry leaders are expected to highlight the associated economic opportunities, and the need to strengthen transportation, lodging and other infrastructure to handle the surge. Sessions will explore trends in global travel, marketing, and the use of new technologies like artificial intelligence to attract visitors. (Tuesday, DoubleTree by Hilton Boston North Shore, Danvers)

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

BUILDING TRADES CONVENTION: Massachusetts Building Trades Union holds its 107th annual convention to set priorities for 2026. The union represents more than 75,000 construction workers statewide. Gov. Healey, Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones, and Interim Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phil Eng are slated to attend. The convention continues on Thursday. (Wednesday, 9 a.m., MGM Springfield, One MGM Way, Springfield)

SCHOOL BUILDING AUTHORITIES: Massachusetts School Building Authority's Facilities Assessment Subcommittee meets. Treasurer Goldberg chairs. For access, contact Maria.Puopolo@MassSchoolBuildings.org. (Wednesday, 9:30 a.m.)

CITIZENS LEGISLATIVE SEMINAR - DAY TWO: Senate Office of Education and Civic Engagement hosts the 91st annual Citizens' Legislative Seminar, which aims to better educate members of the public — who apply to the program and are nominated by their senator — on the functions of the Legislature. Sen. Brownsberger leads a simulated Senate session on day two of the seminar, followed by presentations about the new and old State Houses, the future of the Legislature by Sen. DiDomenico, and outside influences on the Legislature by Sen. Feeney. (Wednesday, 9:30 a.m., Senate Chamber and Room 428 | More Info)

DOCTORS ADVOCACY DAY: Massachusetts Medical Society holds its advocacy day known as Doctors’ Day. The event begins with remarks from speakers including lawmakers and a keynote address from Health and Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah. Participants will receive training to get ready to advocate for physicians and then meet with lawmakers to discuss issues like prior authorization reform, primary care, school-based vaccine requirements and access to health care among immigrant communities. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Senate Reading Room)

SERVICE PLAZA PROCUREMENT INDUSTRY DAY: MassDOT hosts a hybrid meeting to discuss the upcoming procurement for a long-term lease operator to renovate, revitalize and maintain the state's 18 highway service plazas. MassDOT last June selected Irish retailer Applegreen to redevelop and manage 18 service plazas across the state, but the company ultimately backed out of contract talks amid escalating tension from rival bidder Global Partners. MassDOT this month opened a new procurement into the service plaza that incorporates more oversight guardrails. The industry day is meant to discuss the upcoming procurement with prospective qualified operators, designers, builders, consultants, and contractors, according to MassDOT. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., 10 Park Plaza, Boston | Register)

READERS PROGRAM IN BOSTON: Guild School holds a celebration of the expansion of the United States of Readers to Boston Public Schools. The program is aimed at supporting pre-K to eighth grade students to choose books that reflect their interests, cultures and languages at no cost to families. In Boston, the program serves 1,510 students from Title I schools, which are federally funded schools with high percentages of students from low-income families. The United States of Readers already operates in Quincy, Revere, Holyoke and Framingham. During the event, students can select free books and there will be speakers including Sen. Lydia Edwards, Rep. Adrian Madaro and Regional Superintendent Tommy Welch. There will also be a presentation from children’s book author Jerry Pallotta. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Curtis Guild Elementary School. 195 Leyden St., Boston)

PURCH DAY ON THE HILL: UMass Chan Medical School–Baystate Medical students participate in “PURCH on the Hill 2026,” an advocacy day focused on health and justice reform, including legislation that would automatically seal certain criminal records, and funding for the Healthy Incentive Program. The event features a welcome from former Sen. Michael Knapik, Baystate Health vice president of government relations, followed by presentations, policy discussions, and meetings with legislators. (Wednesday, 10:15 a.m., Room 437)

EARLY COLLEGE DAY: Massachusetts Alliance for Early College and Joint Committees on Education and Higher Education co-host a legislative briefing about the Early College Initiative. Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez and Department of Higher Education Commissioner Noe Ortega will give presentations. Hundreds of early college students plan to attend, as well as college presidents and school superintendents. Legislative leaders plan to attend, including Reps, Roy, Lipper-Garabedian and Sen. Crighton, who are lead sponsors of a bill to support early college. (Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Great Hall)

STATE LIBRARY: State Library hosts an open house through 1 p.m. to celebrate its 200th anniversary. William Bradford's manuscript, "Of Plimoth Plantation," will be on display. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., State Library, Room 341)

HOUSE SESSION: The House meets in a full formal session. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., House chamber)

HOUSE DEMS CAUCUS: House Democrats caucus. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., A-1 and A-2)

WESTERN MA SMALL BUSINESS LUNCH: Coalition for an Equitable Economy holds the Western Massachusetts Small Business Survey Legislative Lunch. Results of the coalition's 2025 Small Business Survey will be presented and discussed during the event, which is meant to boost engagement with policymakers and collaboration on the future of small business advocacy in Massachusetts. Presenters are: Rep. Gonzalez; Springfield City Councilor-At-Large Tracye Whitfield; MassINC Polling Group President Steve Koczela; and deputy director and senior executive vice president of MassDevelopment, Marcos Marrero. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center, 1500 Main St., Springfield | More Info and Registration)

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Energy Efficiency Advisory Council meets. (Wednesday, 1 p.m. | Register)

LIFE SCIENCES: Massachusetts Life Sciences Center Board of Directors meets. Agenda includes a report from CEO Kirk Taylor. Members will vote on funding for various initiatives, including research infrastructure and women's health. (Wednesday, 2 p.m., The Engine, 750 Main St., Cambridge | Agenda)

RIDERS' TRANSPORTATION ACCESS GROUP: Riders' Transportation Access Group holds a hybrid advisory meeting. The group is a customer organization that advises the MBTA on transportation issues affecting older adults and people of all ages who have disabilities. (Wednesday, 2 p.m., State Transportation Building, 2nd Floor, 10 Park Plaza, Boston | More Info and Access)

SPILKA IN FRAMINGHAM: Senate President Spilka is inducted into Framingham Women’s Hall of Fame. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Memorial Building, Framingham)

FITCHBURG SCHOOL ROUTE IMPROVEMENTS: MassDOT hosts a virtual public hearing about a proposed project that includes pedestrian and bicycle improvements to the streets abutting the Memorial Middle School located at 615 Rollstone St. in Fitchburg. (Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. | More Info and Register)

GOVERNOR’S CONFERENCE ON TOURISM (DAY 2): The second day of the Massachusetts Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism continues with discussions on how to turn upcoming global events into long-term gains for the economy and tourism sector. Sessions will examine how the World Cup, MA250 events, and Tall Ships Boston present a chance to showcase Massachusetts on the world stage, even as officials deal with the pressure the events will place on public infrastructure and services. Attendees will also discuss expanding STEM-related tourism and building on creative and cultural partnerships. The conference will conclude with awards recognizing contributions to the state’s cultural and travel industries. (Wednesday, DoubleTree by Hilton Boston North Shore, Danvers)

Thursday, March 26, 2026

CHAMBER EXECUTIVE EXCHANGE: Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce launches its new “Executive Exchange” series with SharkNinja CEO Mark Barrocas joining President & CEO Jim Rooney for a conversation on the company’s global growth, innovation strategy, and workforce culture. (Thursday, 8 a.m., Mandarin Oriental Boston, 776 Boylston St., Boston)

MASSBIO CONFERENCE: MassBio holds the State of Possible Conference, bringing together biotech executives, innovators and policymakers. The 2024 economic development law invested $500 million into the Life Sciences Initiative for the next decade and expanded a tax credit meant to spur job creation. Uncertainty from the Trump administration plagued the biopharma sector in 2025, with Massachusetts-headquartered companies bringing in the smallest venture capital haul since 2019. House Ways and Means Chair Michlewitz will receive the "Industry Champion Award" at 10:25 a.m., and Gov. Healey delivers remarks at 10:45 a.m. A panel discussion at 10:55 a.m. on the state's life science ecosystem includes Healey, Flagship Pioneering CEO Noubar Afeyan, MassBio CEO Kendalle Burlin O'Connell and Biogen CEO Christopher Viehbacher. (Thursday, 8:45 a.m., Omni Boston Seaport, 450 Summer St., Boston | More Info and Register)

ALLIED HEALTH: Board of Allied Health Professions meets. Agenda items include a new board counsel, approval of a physical therapist license, and a petition to terminate probation. (Thursday, 9 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

ENGINEERS, LAND SURVEYORS: Board of Registration of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors meets. Agenda includes executive director and board counsel legal reports, and a review of applications. (Thursday, 9 a.m. | Agenda and Access)

MBTA BOARD: MBTA Board of Directors meets in a hybrid meeting. (Thursday, 10 a.m., State Transportation Building, 2nd Floor, 10 Park Plaza, Boston | Agenda TBA)

CANNABIS CONTROL COMMISSION: Cannabis Control Commission holds a hybrid public meeting. The agenda is not yet available. (Thursday, 10 a.m., Union Station 2 Washington Square, Worcester | More Info and Livestream)

HOUSE SESSION: The House meets in an informal session. (Thursday, 11 a.m., House chamber)

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

CANCER ACTION DAY: American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network volunteers will gather as part of annual Cancer Action Day to urge lawmakers to support bills they say will address needs of cancer patients and reduce health disparities. "This year over 43,000 Massachusetts residents are projected to be diagnosed with cancer, and nearly 12,500 will die from the disease," organizers said. "Despite efforts to improve health equity, disparities persist, and not all communities have equal access to cancer prevention, treatment and care." Advocates are backing bills (H 4339, S 809) that would require insurance coverage of biomarker testing and bills (H 4939, S 692) that would address access to patient navigation services. The network will posthumously honor the late Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante in recognition of her commitment to fighting for legislation that improves the lives of cancer patients and her families, according to organizers. Cancer survivors and biomarker testing recipients will be present, as well as Sen. Oliveira and Reps. Kilcoyne, Giannino and Kane. (Thursday, 11 a.m., Grand Staircase)

SENATE DEMS CAUCUS: Senate Democrats meet in caucus. (Thursday, 12 p.m., Senate President's Office and Virtual)

BRAZIL V. FRANCE COMMUTER RAIL SERVICE: Four commuter rail trains run from South Station to Foxboro Station for the first international soccer match held at the Gillette Stadium. The match, between Brazil and France starting at 4 p.m., is part of a series of exhibitions leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup that’s set to come to Gillette Stadium. Roundtrip tickets are available for $30 on the mTicket app, the ticket is also good for travel across the Commuter Rail network for the day, according to MBTA and Keolis. Event trains will leave roughly every 15 minutes starting at 12:45 p.m., passengers in Group A are encouraged to arrive by 12 p.m. and those in Group B should arrive by 12:30 p.m. The first return train will leave Foxboro Station 30 minutes after the final whistle and trains will depart about every 15 minutes. The Franklin/Foxboro Commuter Rail line will not offer regular service to Foxboro the entire day. There are several other service changes to the Franklin/Foxboro, Fairmount and Providence/Stoughton Commuter Rail lines. (Thursday, 12:45 p.m. | More Info)

OPERATIONAL SERVICES: Operational Services Division holds a bidders' conference on a statewide contract for cellular services and devices. (Thursday, 1 p.m. | Register)

ELECTRIC ROOM WORK GROUP: Electric Room Work Group of the Board of Fire Prevention Regulations meets virtually. (Thursday, 1 p.m. | Access)

YOUTH GUN VIOLENCE FILM SCREENING, DISCUSSION: MA Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence, Friends and Mentors, Inc, and other community advocates host a screening of the Emmy-nominated documentary "This Ain't Normal," which follows five young men who have been impacted by community gun violence and outreach workers. A panel of community leaders, youth violence prevention advocates and providers will have a discussion following the film about youth safety and violence prevention. Brockton faces disproportionately high gun violence, with nearly double the per capita rate of Boston, according to organizers. "Despite the scale of the crisis and chronic underinvestment in local resources, Brockton is often left out of statewide conversations on public safety and gun violence prevention," organizers said. (Thursday, 5 p.m., Massasoit Community College, Upper Student Lounge, 1 Massasoit Blvd, Brockton | Register)

MASSDEMS ROOSEVELT DINNER: Massachusetts Democratic Party hosts its annual Roosevelt Dinner Awards, one of the group's biggest fundraising events. The party will posthumously honor Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante and former Newton Mayor Setti Warren with the Roosevelt Award, meant to recognize "a bold and steadfast leader and public servant who reflects the guiding principle and legacy of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt." Senate President Karen Spilka and attorney Beth Boland will also receive the award. The party's annual activist award will go to Minnah Sheikh, chair of the Revere Democratic City Committee and associate at Dewey Square Group, and the "Lion of Labor" award will be presented to American Federation of Teachers President Jessica Tang. Tickets start at $250. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Omni Parker Hotel, Boston)

NORWOOD INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS: MassDOT holds a public meeting to provide information about a project to improve the intersection of University Avenue and Route 1 in Norwood and to enhance pedestrian and bike access along the routes. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Norwood Senior Center, 275 Prospect St., Norwood | More Info and Recording)

CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ANNUAL MEETING: Charles River Watershed Association holds its 60th annual meeting. Members of the association will vote to elect directors and officers during a business meeting. Following the meeting, the association will present several awards to those who have made meaningful contributions to the Charles River. Emily Norton, the association’s executive director, will give remarks. (Thursday, 6 p.m., MIT Welcome Center at 292 Main St., Cambridge | Tickets)

NATICK BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: MassDOT hosts a public meeting to provide updates on the status of a bridge replacement project and interchange improvements in Natick. The project will replace the bridge that carries North Main Street (Route 27) over Worcester Street (Route 9) and consists of the reconfiguration of the interchange, which MassDOT said will provide safety improvements, reduced traffic congestion, and improved bicycle and pedestrian facilities. (Thursday, 6:30 p.m., Wilson Middle School, 22 Rutledge Road, Natick | More Info and Registration)

DIZOGLIO IN BRAINTREE: Auditor DiZoglio attends the Braintree State of the City. (Thursday, 7 p.m., Braintree Town Hall, 1 John F Kennedy Memorial Dr, Braintree)

NATIONAL GRID RATES: Department of Public Utilities hold a hearing on National Grid's plan to raise base distribution rates. (Thursday, 7 p.m., 286 Station Ave., South Yarmouth | More Info)

HOUSE: The House is expected to meet. (Thursday, Time TBD, House Chamber)

Friday, March 27, 2026

WOMEN MUNI OFFICIALS: Women Elected Municipal Officials holds its annual leadership conference. (Friday, 8:30 a.m., Publick House, 277 Main St., Sturbridge | Register)

CONSUMER PROTECTION AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE: Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure accepts written testimony on six local alcohol petitions. H 5051 would remove seating capacity requirements for alcohol licenses in Belmont. Testimony will be accepted until 5 p.m. and can be emailed to: jointcmte-consumerprotection@malegislature.gov or mailed to committee chairs Rep. Tackey Chan and Sen. Pavel Payano. (Friday, 9 a.m. | More Info)

DIZOGLIO AT WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP SUMMIT: Auditor DiZoglio speaks at the Nancy L. Donahue Young Women’s Leadership Summit. (Friday, 10 a.m., Lowell Community Charter School, 206 Jackson St, Lowell)

FY 2027 BUDGET HEARING: Joint Committee on Ways and Means holds its second hearing focused on health and human services funding included in Gov. Healey’s $63.38 billion fiscal 2027 budget proposal. Once again, health care dominates the budget as residents are facing growing costs and the state is seeking to invest in services needed to keep pace with the state’s aging population. Healey is proposing $22.7 billion for MassHealth, up from $22.1 billion in fiscal 2026. Healey’s budget assumes that MassHealth follows recent recommendations from a working group that would save the program $32 million annually and her administration is asking the group to find another $68 million in savings. Included in MassHealth’s budget is $30 million to implement changes under the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act that establishes work requirements and more frequent enrollment eligibility checks. The Executive Office of Health and Human Services, which manages MassHealth, would get about $10.5 billion under Healey’s spending plan. The budget includes $1.32 billion for the Department of Mental Health and $1.08 billion for the Department of Public Health. The budget also proposes $1.06 billion for the Executive Office of Aging and Independence and $13.4 million for senior nutrition services. Representatives of several health care agencies are set to testify including: Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Office of Medicaid, Department of Public Health, Department of Mental Health, Executive Office of Aging and Independence, Health Policy Commission, Center for Information and Analysis and Commission for LGBTQ Youth. Rep. Meghan Kilcoyne and Sen. Robyn Kennedy will chair the meeting. (Friday, 11 a.m., Clinton Town Hall at 242 Church St., Clinton | More Info and Livestream)

RESOURCE FAIR: Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities and MassAbility hold a community conversation and resource fair. (Friday, 11 a.m., UMass Lowell North Campus, 220 Pawtucket St., Lowell | Zoom)

WOOSOX OPENING DAY: Opening day for the Worcester Red Sox. Seven-time Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens throws the ceremonial first pitch. Treasurer Goldberg attends the opening day celebration, as does Auditor DiZoglio. (Friday, 3:05 p.m., Polar Park, 100 Madison St., Worcester)

VALLEY PATRIOT BASH: The Valley Patriot newspaper celebrates its anniversary with a Charity BASH! Scholarship and Award night. During the event, organizers honor police, firefighters and veterans, and present scholarships to graduating students from area schools. Tickets are $60 in advance and $65 at the door. Proceeds benefit local charities throughout the year. Auditor DiZoglio attends. (Friday, 7 p.m., Lawrence Elks Lodge #65, 652 Andover St, Lawrence | More Info and Tickets)