Franklin Town MA
4-26-2026 5:04am

People, Power and Politics

A second Massachusetts liberal arts college this month has announced it will close, underscoring the mounting financial strain facing small, tuition-dependent schools.  Anna Maria College in Paxton said Thursday that it will shutter at the end of the semester after what officials described as an "exhaustive review" of its finances. The decision follows a similar announcement earlier this month from Hampshire College in Amherst.

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!

We’ll start with competing themes for this week:

“Where have all the showers gone?” vs. “Come Monday…”

Franklin averages 4.5” of rain during April and thus far, we have only 1.6.” So it doesn’t seem like April showers will bring lots of May flowers.

When I retired in 2019, I sent my colleagues a playlist that started with the Jimmy Buffett tune “Come Monday…” ‘cuz on that next Monday, I would be elsewhere.

In Franklin, this week of April 27 and following, after Monday which sees 6 meetings, there is only 1 public session and 1 executive session both on Tuesday, for the remainder of the week.

You can start the week with some Jazz at the Historical Museum on Sunday at 3 PM, and also close the week on Saturday celebrating Horace Mann’s birthday also at the Museum from 10 AM to 1 PM.

You can also close the week by joining Jane's Walk on Saturday. It starts at the TV Studio on Hutchinson St at 10 AM, finishes there about 1.5 miles later (approx. 11:30 AM). In between, conversation on the look and feel of the neighborhoods, and what zoning does or doesn’t do. An informative and casual learning opportunity followed by lunch and networking at the Studio.

The listing of the agendas for the meetings scheduled this week are provided below.

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 pages 4/24/26, 7:00 PM ***

Music at the Museum: Jazz

Sunday, April 26 Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

At the Historical Museum

Communications Subcommittee Meeting

Monday, April 27 Time: 12:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04272026-2270

Franklin Agricultural Committee Meeting

Monday, April 27 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04272026-2266

Franklin School Committee Horace Mann Legacy Sub Committee Meeting

Monday, April 27 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04272026-2263

Library Board of Directors Regular Meeting

Monday, April 27 Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04272026-2272

Planning Board Meeting

Monday, April 27 Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04272026-2271

250th Anniversary Celebration Committee Historical Importance Subcommittee

Monday, April 27 Time: 7:30 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04272026-2273

Massachusetts Strategic Health Group Meeting

Tuesday, April 28 Time: 1:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04282026-2274

Franklin School Committee Contractual Negotiations Meeting

Tuesday, April 28 Time: 4:30 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04282026-2198

ZBA Meeting-NO MEETING

Thursday, April 30 Time: 7:30 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04302026-2269

Happy Birthday Horace Mann!

Saturday, May 2 Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

At the Historical Museum

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

Town & School meetings

From FHS live streaming

From All Access

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

Things gear back up in a big way next week when the House dives into debate on a $63.3 billion fiscal 2027 budget proposal and the 1,737 ways representatives want to see it amended. Fiscal year 2027, which begins July 1, is projected to be "a very, very difficult fiscal year in a truly, truly challenging economic environment," House Speaker Ron Mariano said this month. House leadership is trying to project fiscal discipline in the face of risks known and unknown, which could bode poorly for most amendments representatives filed. It's the largest volume of amendments in at least 14 years, according to the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, which conservatively estimates the fiscal impact of all amendments at about $1.39 billion (excluding tax policy amendments, which alone would have a fiscal impact in excess of $1.7 billion). MTF Research Director Meaghan Callahan said it's typical for there to be a greater number of budget amendments in the second year of the term. Conventional wisdom might suggest the repeated signals from leadership that it will be a tight budget with little space left for amendment-added spending could convince some lawmakers to take it easy with amendments. But Callahan said "it has been the trend in the last few years that there has been an ever-increasing number, irrespective of the fiscal situation the state is in." This year's amendment load is 87 riders heavier than last year's and tops the fiscal 2025 budget total by 242 amendments. About 76% (1,328) of the pending amendments are earmarks for specific projects or priorities, 15% are outside policy sections and the remainder are either new line items, increases without designated purposes, new line item language, or line item funding source adjustments, MTF said. Health care and education are the two most common topics addressed in amendments. Last year, the House adopted some form of at least 756 amendments, or about 46% of what representatives filed. That added $81.9 million in spending to the budget, 90% of which supported local earmarks. Callahan said she expects the House will add roughly the same amount of spending via amendments this year. Over the last three budgets, representatives have added an average of $102.5 million in spending via amendments, MTF said. When the House gavels in Monday morning, expect to hear introductory speeches from Ways and Means Committee Chair Aaron Michlewitz and perhaps ranking Republican member Rep. Todd Smola. Then, under House rules, representatives must first deal with any amendments "relative to enhancing or reducing revenue," which has in some years been used by Republicans to highlight tax-cutting ideas that have no traction with the Democratic supermajority. Similar to ideas the House rejected a year ago, Rep. Marc Lombardo has proposed amendments to reduce the state sales and incomes tax rates. Rep. Nicholas Boldyga is proposing to suspend the state gas tax until prices come down, and Rep. Steven Howitt is proposing to raise the threshold for the state estate tax, among other proposals. House budget debate is expected to stretch into the middle of the week (reps have the Great Hall booked for dinner Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings). The sessions are likely to be marked by long periods of inactivity in the House Chamber while reps pitch their amendments to Ways and Means leaders in closed-door meetings that will eventually lead to more than a half-dozen consolidated mega-amendments. Also next week, primary ballots will come into clearer focus after candidates for district and county offices, including the Legislature, face the Tuesday deadline to submit nomination papers to local election officials for certification of signatures.

Sunday, April 26, 2026

REPORTERS ON KELLER: Boston Globe reporter Kelly Garrity and MASSterList editor Gin Dumcius join political analyst Jon Keller on his weekly talk segment "Keller at Large" to discuss the U.S. Senate race between Sen. Ed Markey and Congressman Seth Moulton, the state of the MassGOP and Gov. Maura Healey’s reelection efforts. (Sunday, 8:30 a.m., WBZ-TV)

O'BRIEN ON @ ISSUE: Teamsters President Sean O'Brien sits down with NBC 10 reporter Matt Prichard for the network's weekly show, "@ Issue." (Sunday, 9:30 a.m., NBC 10)

SHAHEEN ON THE RECORD: U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire joins WCVB's weekly political talk show "On the Record." (Sunday, 11 a.m., WCVB-TV)

"A PLACE TO GROW" ON CITYLINE: WCVB's weekly urban magazine program CityLine hosts Massachusetts Convention Center Authority Interim Executive Director John Barros to discuss the MCCA's "vision for economic impact and community responsibility." Mechalle Brown, the mother of Celtics forward and 7uice Foundation founder, Jaylen Brown, discusses as the foundation's chairperson and director how its programs are opening doors for young people. Natanja Craig Oquendo, CEO of the Boston Women's Fund, joins Jessica Martin, research consultant for the study, to talk about resources needed to change current inequities shown in data that suggests 0.2% of Greater Boston nonprofits focus on women and girls of color. (Sunday, 11:30 a.m., WCVB-TV)

Monday, April 27, 2026

MASSHEALTH REGS: MassHealth holds a public hearing on proposed regulations dealing with independent nurses, who provide continuous skilled nursing services to individuals with complex care needs. The regulations deal with provider eligibility, responsibilities, training and recordkeeping requirements. At 10:30 a.m., another hearing will focus on proposed regulations for continuous skilled nursing agencies, including requirements for training, supervision and intake, and boosting discharge and transfer requirements. Officials say the changes would take effect no sooner than Sept. 15. (Monday, 9 a.m. | More Info and Access)

PHARMACY DAY: Pharmacists hold an advocacy day organized by the Massachusetts Pharmacists Association. Advocates plan to talk to policymakers about patient access to medication, affordability, pharmacy sustainability and the expanding role of pharmacists in frontline care. There will be informational booths in the Great Hall, along with a free blood pressure screening station. The lobby day comes as lawmakers continue to raise health care costs as one of the most pressing issues in Massachusetts. (Monday, 10 a.m., Great Hall)

BOSTON CLIMATE PLAN: Boston Mayor Wu unveils the city's 2030 Climate Action Plan, which calls for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. The event is hosted with Tree Eastie and will feature a ceremonial planting of 10 trees. (Monday, 10 a.m., LoPresti Park, 33 Sumner St., East Boston)

HOUSE BUDGET DEBATE: House begins deliberations on the Ways and Means Committee's $63.3 budget proposal for fiscal year 2027 (H 5500). Representatives filed 1,737 amendments to the committee's spending plan, proposing to add at least another $1.39 billion to the budget. Over the last three years, the House typically added about $102 million in additional spending through the amendment process, the Mass. Taxpayers Foundation said. After introductory speeches, debate is slated to begin with consideration of amendments that would raise or lower the amount of tax revenue assumed in the budget. After that, most amendments are likely to be handled via closed-door meetings with leadership where members can make the case for their earmarks or other amendments. The House then adopts select proposals as part of consolidated mega-amendments. (Monday, 11 a.m., House Chamber | Livestream)

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

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES: Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities' Long-Term Services and Supports and Health Equity Subcommittee meets. (Monday, 11 a.m. | Register)

IRONWORKERS APPRENTICESHIP WEEK: Labor Secretary Jones and Undersecretary of Labor Cutler visit Ironworkers Local 7 to kickoff Massachusetts Apprenticeship Week. (Monday, 11 a.m., Ironworkers Local 7, 195 Old Colony Ave., Boston)

GAMING COMMISSION: Massachusetts Gaming Commission holds an adjudicatory hearing on the suitability of 601, LLC which is owned by Paul and Cynthia Picknelly of MGM Springfield. (Monday, 11 a.m. | Access and More Info)

GAMING COMMISSION: Massachusetts Gaming Commission holds an adjudicatory meeting on the suitability of Nelly Anaya, vice president of internal audit for MGM Resorts International, as an individual qualifier. (Monday, 11:30 a.m. |Access and More Info)

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES SUBCOMMITTEE: Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities’ Subcommittee on Disability Employment meets virtually. (Monday, 12 p.m. | Access and More Info)

PROTECT ACT RALLY: People's PROTECT Act Coalition, a group of 58 organizations, rallies to urge lawmakers to pass a strengthened version of the so-called PROTECT Act for immigrant communities. The House passed a version of this bill earlier this month, and the Senate has signaled it plans to take up the legislation soon as well. The group says the version of the bill that passed the House "falls short of what is needed." They outline three priorities for the legislation: "ending harmful collaboration between local law enforcement and ICE, expanding access to optional virtual court proceedings, and improving the U/T visa process." The immigrant protection bill that passed through the House is focused on limiting the role of local and state police in civil immigration matters, and protecting immigrants in certain public spaces like courthouses. (Monday, 1 p.m., State House steps | More Info)

DPH REGS: Department of Public Health holds a public hearing on proposed regulatory changes for alcohol and drug counselor licensure requirements. Officials say the update aligns with industry standards and also reflects changes from the 2024 substance use addiction and disorder law. (Monday, 1 p.m. | More Info and Access)

HOUSE BUDGET DINNER: Representatives have space booked for a three-hour budget dinner period. (Monday, 4 p.m., Great Hall)

WORKERS ACTION: Massachusetts AFL-CIO and the Massachusetts Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health go on a statewide tour for Workers' Memorial Day Week of Action, where they will honor workers killed on the job and their families, and call for stronger workplace protections. The tour coincides with the release of their report, "Dying for Work in Massachusetts: Loss of Life and Limb in Massachusetts Workplaces." They'll make three stops this week, starting in New Bedford. Tour starts at 5:30 p.m., following a press conference. (Monday, 5:15 p.m., Fishermens' Tribute Statue, 49 State Pier, New Bedford | Media RSVP)

DRISCOLL FUNDRAISER: Lt. Gov. Driscoll holds a fundraiser for her reelection campaign alongside Gov. Healey in her hometown of Salem. Suggested contributions range from $125 to $1,000, according to the flyer. (Monday, 6 p.m., Salem, Address upon RSVP to Ellis@KimDriscoll.org)

A&F, DCR HEARING: Executive Office for Administration and Finance, alongside the Department of Conservation and Recreation, holds a public hearing on proposed changes dealing with fees for camping and parking; annual parking passes for non-residents; parking for veterans, disabled veterans, Purple Heart recipients, Gold Star families and active service members; and parking and boat rental fees tied to the Quabbin Reservoir Fishing Program. (Monday, 6 p.m., Fall River Heritage State Park, 200 Davol St., Heritage Center Auditorium, Fall River | More Info)

B BRANCH CLOSURE: Green Line B Branch service is suspended between Kenmore Station and Boston College for nine consecutive days from April 22 through April 30. Free shuttle buses will replace service, but will not stop at Griggs St., Allston St., and Packard's Corner. The suspension will be expanded to Copley during the weekend of April 25-26. (Monday)

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

BOARD OF ED: Board of Elementary and Secondary Education meets. It will be the first meeting Education Secretary Zrike attends. Zrike will discuss Gov. Healey's social media bill and guidance on deepfake photos and videos. The agenda includes a discussion on Massachusetts 9/11 education resources, an update on the safe schools program for LGBTQ students and the education budget. The board will discuss and possibly vote on proposed regulatory changes to educator licensure. (Tuesday, 9 a.m., 135 Santilli Highway, Everett | Livestream)

OPEN MEETING LAW OVERVIEW: Attorney General Campbell's office holds a webinar to go over the state's open meeting law. (Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. | More Info and Register)

ASSISTED LIVING LOBBY DAY: Massachusetts Assisted Living Association holds its annual advocacy day. Advocates plan to lobby for support on a bill to create a dedicated trust fund for oversight and regulation of assisted living residences using fees, fines, and other revenues, expand certain public health provisions to include assisted living facilities, and establish a task force to study and recommend ways to improve access to affordable assisted living (H 5376). Sens. Rodrigues and Jehlen and Rep. Stanley plan to attend. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Great Hall)

EYE PHYSICIANS LOBBY DAY: Massachusetts Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons host an advocacy day. Their priorities include bills to define "invasive" surgical procedures as anything that structurally alters the human body by incision or destruction or cutting of tissues (H 1362); improve the health insurance prior authorization process and reduce administrative burden (H 4616 / S 1403); and aim to close the disparities in children's vision (H 5089 / S 166). (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Room 428)

SKILLED NURSING REGS: Executive Office of Health and Human Services holds a public regulatory hearing on rates for continuous skilled nursing agencies and independent nursing services. The proposed amendments establish a rate for licensed practical nurses who are supervising in-person visits for complex care. Under current regulations, those visits can only be supervised by registered nurses. The amendment would also specify rates for training time. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Access)

LOTTERY COMMISSION: State Lottery Commission meets. The agenda includes an executive director’s report. (Tuesday, 10:30 a.m., for access link email jgoggin@masslottery.com or call 857 208-8030)

495 PARTNERSHIP ON THE HILL: Senate President Spilka speaks at the 495/MetroWest Partnership annual State House day. (Tuesday, 11:30 a.m., Senate Reading Room)

WORKERS ACTION: Massachusetts AFL-CIO and the Massachusetts Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health go on a statewide tour for Workers' Memorial Day Week of Action, where they will honor workers killed on the job and their families, and call for stronger workplace protections. The tour coincides with the release of their report, "Dying for Work in Massachusetts: Loss of Life and Limb in Massachusetts Workplaces." This is the second of three stops this week. (Tuesday, 11:45 a.m., State House steps | Media RSVP)

COMPTROLLER ADVISORY BOARD: Advisory Board to the Comptroller holds a virtual meeting. The board is expected to review a draft annual Comprehensive Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2025 and discuss an ongoing review of its regulations. (Tuesday, 12:30 p.m. | More Info and Access)

MOVA AWARDS: Massachusetts Office for Victims Assistance holds its 2026 Victim Rights Awards. The awards honor those who have contributed to victim services. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Grand Staircase)

SWISS COMPANIES MEETING: Labor Secretary Jones, Undersecretary of Labor Cutler and the Swiss Consulate in Boston convene business leaders from Swiss companies with a presence in Massachusetts to discuss registered apprenticeship opportunities as a strategy to attract and retain talent, as part of the state's Apprenticeship Week. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Room 157)

TRUCKING ON THE HILL: Transportation Association of Massachusetts joins Sen. Cronin and Reps. Lipper-Garabedian and Owens in hosting "Trucking on the Hill," an event meant to teach about the trucking industry and challenges facing people who deliver goods and materials throughout the state. Association Executive Director Kevin Weeks is slated to "highlight efforts to keep Massachusetts attractive for transportation companies while growing workforce in Massachusetts," according to hosts. Speakers also include Greater Boston Food Bank Chief Operating Officer Cheryl Schondek, New England Tractor Trailer School Owner Samantha Greenberg, and Senior Vice President of Massachusetts-based Boyle Transportation Michael Lasko. (Tuesday, 1:15 p.m., Room 428)

CANDIDATE FILING DEADLINE: Tuesday is the filing deadline for district and county candidates (state Senate, state House, Governor’s Council, district attorney, register of probate, county commissioner, county treasurer or sheriff) to submit nomination papers to local election officials for certification of signatures. Local officials have until May 19 to conduct signature certification, and candidates have until May 26 to file signatures with the secretary of state's office to solidify primary contests. (Tuesday, 5 p.m.)

HOUSE BUDGET DINNER: Representatives have space booked for a three-hour budget dinner period. (Tuesday, 4 p.m., Great Hall)

CHELSEA BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: MassDOT hosts a virtual public hearing to provide information about the Washington Avenue, Carter Street and County Road/Route 1 bridge replacement project in Chelsea. (Tuesday, 6 p.m. | More Info and Register)

HAMPDEN TOWN HALL: Sen. Oliveira presents a $90,000 check to the Hampden Select Board representing money in the fiscal year 2026 state budget for security improvements to Town Hall. (Tuesday, 6 p.m., Hampden Town Hall)

HOUSE BUDGET DEBATE: House is expected to continue debate on the Ways and Means Committee's $63.3 budget plan for fiscal year 2027 and the 1,737 amendments filed to it. (Tuesday, House Chamber)

Wednesday, April 29, 2026

APPRENTICESHIP NETWORK: Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones, Undersecretary of Labor Josh Cutler, Kristin Driscoll of Mass General Brigham, Pam Eddinger of Bunker Hill Community College, and Nate Mackinnon of the Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges speak as Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Foundation holds a celebration for the four-year anniversary of the Massachusetts Apprenticeship Network. The event will also dive into major trends affecting apprenticeships. (Wednesday, 9 a.m., 265 Franklin St., Boston | Register)

MARKETING PARTNERSHIP BOARD: Massachusetts Marketing Partnership board of directors holds a hybrid public meeting. Agenda includes a welcome from Economic Development Secretary Paley, a FIFA World Cup Boston 26 update, and updates from groups including the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, Massport, the Office of Travel and Tourism and MassEcon. (Wednesday, 9:30 a.m., Executive Office of Economic Development, One Ashburton Place, 21st Floor, Room 2101, Conference Room A, Boston | Zoom Link | Agenda)

MUNICIPAL POLICE TRAINING COMMITTEE: Police Standards Subcommittee of the Municipal Police Training Committee holds open hearings. The subcommittee will hear the appeals of former Student Officer Baltazar Gonzalez from his dismissal from the Springfield Police Academy, and former instructors Timothy Van Nostrand and Kyle Kidger from the revocation of their MPTC instructor certifications, per the committee. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., 42 Thomas Patten Dr., Randolph | More Info)

DTA TAUNTON ADVISORY BOARD: Taunton Advisory Board of the Department of Transitional Assistance holds a virtual public meeting. Agenda includes board director, member and DTA statewide updates. (Wednesday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Access)

AI IN HEALTH CARE: National Association of Health Services Executives Boston Chapter and the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association host an online forum about AI in health care. The event will explore the risks that AI poses in worsening disparities, equity-focused frameworks for using AI, and implications across areas like direct care and data governance. A panel discussion includes Dr. Tinu Tadese of Boston Medical Center, Kade Crockford of ACLU Massachusetts and Christopher Fields of Yale School of Medicine. (Wednesday, 10 a.m. | Register)

SENATE DEMS CAUCUS: Senate Democrats meet for a caucus. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Senate President's Ceremonial Office and Virtual)

VETERINARY YOUTH DAY: Rep. Puppolo hosts an event recognizing Veterinary Youth Day to showcase the efforts of veterinary and animal welfare organizations and inspire the next generation to pursue careers in veterinary medicine, per Puppolo's office. Participating organizations include the Dakin Humane Society, Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association, the Massachusetts Veterinary Technician Association, MSPCA-Angell, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston. Therapy dogs Pluto and Frankie, from the Boston-based nonprofit Caring Canines, will also be present. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Nurses Hall)

LABOR AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development holds a hearing on one bill from Rep. Luddy. The bill (H 5188) creates a commission to study access to unemployment insurance in the state. Written testimony will be accepted until May 8th at 5 p.m. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Hearing Room B-1 | Access and More Info)

WORKERS ACTION: Massachusetts AFL-CIO and the Massachusetts Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health go on a statewide tour for Workers' Memorial Day Week of Action, where they will honor workers killed on the job and their families, and call for stronger workplace protections. The tour coincides with the release of their report, "Dying for Work in Massachusetts: Loss of Life and Limb in Massachusetts Workplaces." This is the third of three stops this week. (Wednesday, 11:45 a.m., Teamsters Local 404, 115 Progress Ave., Springfield | Media RSVP)

SMALL BUSINESS SURVEY LUNCH: Coalition for an Equitable Economy hosts a legislative lunch to discuss the findings from its 2025 small business survey, and present the information to lawmakers. Rep. Vargas, MassINC Polling Group President Steve Koczela, Springfield City Council President Tracye Whitfield, and Holyoke Director of Planning & Economic Development Marcos Marrero plan to give presentations. (Wednesday, 1 p.m., Room 428 | Register)

PROHIBITED PLANT LIST: Department of Agricultural Resources holds a virtual public hearing to propose restricting the import, sale and propagation of the Japanese angelica tree and Asiatic sweetleaf. (Wednesday, 1 p.m. | More Info and Access)

ASSISTED LIVING REGS: Attorney General Campbell's office holds a public hearing on proposed regulations aimed at protecting residents of assisted living residences. The facilities would be required to develop "straightforward service agreements" about the costs of care, and to disclose the scope of available nursing care. Residents would also gain rights similar to other tenants, including eviction protections. (Wednesday, 1 p.m., 100 Cambridge St., Second floor, Boston | More Info and Access)

HOAP DOCUSERIES PREMIERE: Building Partnerships for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities and Older Adults Initiative holds a premiere of its docuseries “Heroes of Adult Protection” or HOAP. The series is focused on challenges of adult protection professionals helping victims with disabilities thrive. Joan Meunier-Sham, director of the Massahcusetts Department of Public Health’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program, is set to be honored with a Special Recognition Award. (Wednesday, 1:30 p.m., Showcase Cinema de Lux Legacy Place, 670 Legacy Place, Dedham | Registration)

HOUSE BUDGET DINNER: Representatives have space booked for a three-hour budget dinner period. (Wednesday, 4 p.m., Great Hall)

WEST BROOKFIELD BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: MassDOT hosts a virtual public hearing to provide information about a proposed bridge replacement in West Brookfield. (Wednesday, 6 p.m. | More Info and Register)

CHARLES RIVER TASK FORCE: Charles River Task Force holds a public hearing. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Morse Elementary School Auditorium, 40 Granite St., Cambridge | More Info and Register)

DEMAREST LLOYD STATE PARK RESTORATION DESIGN: Department of Conservation and Recreation holds a virtual public meeting about the Demarest Lloyd State Park ecological restoration concept design and phased retreat feasibility study. The park is located in Dartmouth. (Wednesday, 6 p.m. | More Info and Register)

A&F, DCR HEARING: Executive Office for Administration and Finance, alongside the Department of Conservation and Recreation, holds a public hearing on proposed changes dealing with fees for camping and parking, annual parking passes for non-residents, and parking for veterans and active service members, among other topics. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Holyoke Range State Park, Notch Visitor Center, 1500 West St., Amherst | More Info)

LYNN, REVERE BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: MassDOT holds a virtual public meeting about the proposed General Edwards Drawbridge replacement project in Lynn and Revere. The agency is planning to replace the 87-year-old drawbridge with a new fixed bridge that will be constructed downstream and adjacent to the existing bridge, per MassDOT. (Wednesday, 7 p.m. | More Info and Register)

SINGLE-PAYER FORUM: U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern is among the speakers as a hub of Mass-Care: Massachusetts Campaign for Single Payer Health Care holds a virtual forum to advocate for Medicare for All and Single Payer Health Care as solutions to the state’s health care crisis. Specifically, the group says a bill (H 1405 /S 860) would establish a single-payer model to collect and distribute funds for health care services for Massachusetts residents. The House bill, filed by Reps. Sabadosa and Scarsdale, is pending in the Committee on Health Care Financing, which has a June 15 deadline to report on it. The Senate side of the committee put the Senate bill, sponsored by Sen. Eldridge, in a study order (S 2931). (Wednesday, 7 p.m. | Access and More Info)

HOUSE BUDGET DEBATE: House is expected to continue debate on the Ways and Means Committee's $63.3 budget plan for fiscal year 2027 and the 1,737 amendments filed to it. (Wednesday, House Chamber)

Thursday, April 30, 2026

SPRINGFIELD'S BEACON HILL SUMMIT: Springfield Regional Chamber takes its annual bus trip to the State House, hosted by Sen. Gomez and Rep. Gonzalez. Springfield-area business leaders plan to meet with lawmakers to discuss local issues. (Thursday, 7 a.m., State House)

BOSTON OUTCOMES REPORT: Opportunity Boston, formerly the Boston Opportunity Agenda, hosts an event to release it's latest report, "Cradle to Career Outcomes Report: Partnerships Driving Progress." The report looks at Boston Public Schools and Commonwealth Charter Schools students in Boston and how they're faring across areas of kindergarten readiness, early grade reading, middle grade math and several metrics related to high school graduation, and into postsecondary success. The event will feature remarks from BPS Superintendent Mary Skipper. (Thursday, 9 a.m., The Bruce C. Bolling Building, 2300 Washington St., Boston | Register)

MBTA BOARD: MBTA Board of Directors holds a hybrid meeting. (Thursday, 10 a.m., State Transportation Building, 2nd Floor, 10 Park Plaza, Boston | More Info)

EARLY CHILDHOOD GRANTS: Healey administration announces a new round of GROW Grants to expand registered apprenticeship programs in early childhood education. (Thursday, 10 a.m., Little People's College, 107 Welby Road, New Bedford | Livestream)

DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING: Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing celebrates 40 years of advocacy and supporting the community. There will be a speaking program where the group’s first commissioner, BJ Wood, is set to attend along with lawmakers and others from the community. Attendees will also have the chance to visit lawmakers. (Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Great Hall)

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

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES SUBCOMMITTEE: Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities’ Subcommittee on Workforce Supports meets virtually. The agenda includes a discussion on a proposed provider education session. (Thursday, 11 a.m.| Access and More Info)

CHAPA FAIR HOUSING SYMPOSIUM: ​​Citizens' Housing and Planning Association, or CHAPA, holds a symposium focused on boosting fair housing in the state. Juana Matias, secretary of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, will provide keynote remarks. There will also be a panel discussion, fireside chat and a presentation of Robert L. Terrell Fair Housing Awards. (Thursday, 1 p.m. | Zoom Registration)

JONES ACCUROUNDS TOUR: Labor Secretary Jones visits Avon-based contract manufacturer AccuRounds and tours its advanced manufacturing registered apprenticeship program. (Thursday, 2:30 p.m., 74 Bodewell St., Avon)

HIGHER ED STUDENT ADVISORY: Department of Higher Education's Student Advisory Council meets. (Thursday, 4:30 p.m. | More Info)

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

EASTHAM/ORLEANS ROTARY IMPROVEMENTS: MassDOT holds a public meeting to discuss the proposed project to reconstruct the Route 6 rotary in Eastham and Orleans to improve road safety and flood resilience. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Eastham Public Library, 190 Samoset Road, Eastham | More Info)

BROOK FARM HISTORIC SITE CONCEPTUAL DESIGN: Department of Conservation and Recreation holds a virtual public meeting to begin the public comment process on conceptual designs for the Brook Farm Historic Site in West Roxbury. According to DCR, the agency and its consultant will present a site analysis and two draft concepts to improve visitor experiences at the site, which will be finalized based on public comment and presented at a second meeting in June. (Thursday, 6 p.m. | More Info and Register)

A&F, DCR HEARING: Executive Office for Administration and Finance, alongside the Department of Conservation and Recreation, holds a public hearing on proposed changes dealing with fees for camping and parking, annual parking passes for non-residents, and parking for veterans and active service members, among other topics. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Botume House, 4 Woodland Road, Stoneham | More Info)

HEATING ASSISTANCE: Deadline for residents to apply for home heating assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program, which helps households pay a portion of their winter heating bills. Residents can apply through April 30 for assistance for heating expenses incurred during the winter months. (Thursday)

Friday, May 1, 2026

ROCA BREAKFAST: Lt. Gov. Driscoll and House Ways and Means Chair Michlewitz are expected to speak as Roca hosts its annual fundraiser breakfast. Roca works with high-risk young people aged 16-24 involved in gangs and street violence. This year's breakfast puts a focus on a "growing dimension of that violence: human trafficking." A recent independent evaluation by Tufts Interdisciplinary Evaluation Research found that about one-third of participants in Roca's Young Women's Program have experienced a form of human trafficking, most involving sex trafficking and, increasingly, labor trafficking. The event will also focus on "how Roca is harnessing ethical, human-centered AI to expand its life-changing work for young men and women." (Friday, 8 a.m., Intercontinental Hotel, 510 Atlantic Ave., Boston)

MASSHEALTH REGS: MassHealth holds a public hearing on major proposed regulatory changes, including ending coverage of drugs that are acquired through the 340B Drug Pricing Program and billed through pharmacy point-of-sale adjudication. Officials say the goal is for MassHealth to "secure aggregate fiscal savings," with the change for the safety-net drug discount program taking effect July 1. "Members will continue to have full access to drugs when not acquired through the 340B Drug Pricing Program," the hearing notice says. "Coverage will remain for most 340B drugs administered by clinicians." The hearing will also focus on Gov. Healey's budget proposal for MassHealth to largely eliminate coverage of GLP-1 drugs for obesity and weight loss. The House Ways and Means Committee's budget didn't touch Healey's administrative move, which is expected to save the state $15 million annually. (Friday, 9 a.m. | More Info and Access)

MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSE: Eighth graders of the Wellesley Middle School Chorus perform. (Friday, 10:30 a.m, Grand Staircase)

VETERANS SERVICES ADVISORY COUNCIL: Governor's Advisory Council on Veterans Services holds a virtual public meeting. (Friday, 1 p.m. | More Info and Access)

MAY DAY: A "May Day Strong" event will bring together labor, climate and "justice" groups, with events happening earlier in the day throughout the city. "Climate and labor are not separate fights," organizers say. "A Just Transition means good union jobs, clean energy, and an economy that works for working people — not the other way around." (Friday, 4:30 p.m., Boston Common)

Saturday, May 2, 2026

LGBTQ YOUTH HOUSING: Commission on LGBTQ Youth partners with Safe Homes for an event to educate on supporting homeless LGBTQ+ youth, learn about community organizations and share experiences. Emergency backpacks will also be packed. The event is open to youth and young adults aged 24 and under, parents, caregivers, teachers and other professionals. (Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m., Safe Homes, 4 Mann St., Worcester | RSVP)

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