國會山報：白宮指控40多國協助中國逃稅

 （Boston Orange編譯）國會山報（The Hill）稱，根據8月13日發佈的「大轉運詐騙（The Great Transshipment Scam）」報告，白宮指控中國透過全球影子轉運網，把價值數十億美元貨物從40多國轉運進美國，以逃避川普總統的2018年關稅，導致美國每年損失稅收逾190億元。

這份「大轉運詐騙」報告稱，從墨西哥到以色列，有超過40個國家，參與了「全球影子轉運網絡」。中國現在就是透過這個網絡，經由第三國轉運貨物，獲得較低的美國關稅稅率。 白宮估計，美國每年因此損失稅收高達190億至260億美元。

白宮報告指出，出口商能夠透過重新包裝或重新標籤商品，並在寄往美國前在其他國家進行有限組裝，來偽裝產品的來源。 白宮貿易顧問彼得·納瓦羅13日表示：「多年來，這個大型轉運詐騙讓共產中國洗錢」。 報告還點名了加拿大、歐盟國家、日本和南韓是中國商品被改道風險較高的國家。報告承認這些國家作為美國的主要貿易夥伴，也有大量合法貿易。 

美國商務部的另一項分析估計，去年約有670億美元貨物從中國經墨西哥、印度和越南轉運，導致約280億美元的關稅收入損失。 川普政府也正在開發一套名為「偵探邊境」的人工智慧系統，協助美國海關與邊境保護局識別可疑貨物。 該系統將審查航運路線、產品資訊、所有權及其他資料，協助官員區分合法貿易與逃避關稅的企圖。 

報告中寫道，「這個給全世界的訊息很簡單，無法追蹤的非法轉運時代已經結束」。「曾經看似低調的文書操作——重新標籤、重新包裝、重新開票——如今已成為經濟主權與國家意志的問題」。 

中國國家主席習近平預計九月訪美。

麻州政府為降低醫保費用 要集思廣益辦六場公聽會

    （Boston Orange編譯）麻州政府14日宣佈，將舉辦六場公眾意見徵詢會，以推進降低麻州家庭和小型企業醫療保健開銷的建議。這些線上會議由保險部門（DOI）主辦，旨在收集患者、醫療服務提供者、保險公司、雇主和其他利益相關者的意見，以幫助制定新的州級法規，從而降低成本並穩定保險費。

    這些會議是落實州長奚莉（Maura Healey）醫療保健可負擔能力工作小組(Health Care Affordability Working Group)本月所發佈建議的下一步。該工作小組匯集了醫療保健提供者、保險公司、雇主、勞工和消費者權益倡導者，旨在確定使人們更加負擔得起醫療保健的短期和長期方法。

    奚莉州長表示，「醫療保健開支過高，給麻州各地的家庭和小企業帶來沉重壓力」 。 “我們成立醫療保健負擔能力工作組，匯集了患者、醫療服務提供者、保險公司和雇主，共同探討降低成本的途徑，現在我們正在推進這些建議的實施」。這些意見徵詢會是落實切實有效的減少負擔措施的重要一步。” 

    副州長Kim Driscoll說「如果我們想讓醫療保健更經濟實惠，就需要直接聽取那些每天支付帳單、使用醫療系統的人們的意見」 。 “這些會議將幫助我們完善細節，以便推進降低居民和小企業成本的改革。”

 保險專員邁克爾·卡爾喬表示，「只有透過集體參與和強有力的夥伴關係，才能建立持續的財政援助」。 “透過讓醫療服務提供者、保險公司、患者和企業參與進來，我們可以為麻州的每一個人打造一個更透明、穩定和負擔得起的醫療保健生態系統。”

  聽證會將重點討論州長醫療保健負擔能力工作小組所提出，保險局（DOI）正在推動的兩項建議：

    降低網路外醫療費用： 制定新標準以保護病患並降低過高的網路外醫療保健費用。

    穩定小型企業和個人市場： 探索加強個人和小團體保險市場並幫助抑制保費。

聆聽會行程安排

麻州保險局將以線上形式舉辦全部六場聽證會。 隨著聽證會日期的接近，政府將提供更多信息，包括每場聽證會的主題和註冊詳情：

• 9月9日星期三 上午11:00
• 10月1日星期四 上午10:00
• 10月5日星期一 上午10:00
• 10月19日星期一 上午10:00
• 11月2日星期一 上午10:00
• 11月5日星期四 上午10:00

  奚莉州長已經開始推動醫療保健負擔能力工作小組的其他建議。其中包括指示麻州醫療補助計畫（MassHealth）到2028年時，把療總支出中的初級保健投資比例提高到12%，以及努力降低處方藥價格。

  麻州政府鼓勵患者、消費者權益倡導者、醫療保健提供者、保險公司、雇主和其他相關利益相關者參與。查詢更多 資訊和註冊詳情可上網https://www.mass.gov/news/division-of-insurance-listening-sessions-out-of-network-costs-and-stabilizing-insurance-markets-to-drive-down-premium-costs。 

Governor Healey Announces Public Listening Sessions to Lower Health Care Costs for Massachusetts Families and Small Businesses

Division of Insurance to host six virtual forums gathering stakeholder input lowering out-of-network costs and making coverage more affordable for individuals and small businesses

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced a series of six public listening sessions as it moves forward with recommendations to lower health care costs for Massachusetts families and small businesses. Hosted by the Division of Insurance (DOI), the virtual sessions will gather input from patients, providers, insurers, employers and other stakeholders to help shape new state regulations aimed at lowering costs and stabilizing insurance premiums.

The sessions are a next step in implementing recommendations released this month by Governor Healey’s Health Care Affordability Working Group, which brought together health care providers, insurers, employers, labor and consumer advocates to identify immediate and long-term ways to make health care more affordable.

“Health care costs are too high, and they’re putting real pressure on families and small businesses across Massachusetts,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We created our Health Care Affordability working group and brought together patients, providers, insurers and employers to identify ways to lower costs, and now we’re moving those recommendations forward. These listening sessions are an important next step in delivering meaningful relief.” 

“If we want to make health care more affordable, we need to hear directly from the people who are paying these bills and navigating the system every day,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “These sessions will help us get the details right as we move forward with changes to lower costs for residents and small businesses.”

“Sustained financial relief can only be built through collective engagement and strong partnerships,” said Insurance Commissioner Michael Caljouw. “By bringing providers, insurers, patients, and businesses to the table, we can forge a more transparent, stable, and affordable health care ecosystem for everyone in the Commonwealth.”

 The listening sessions will focus on two recommendations from the Governor’s Health Care Affordability Working Group that DOI is moving forward:

1. Reducing Out-of-Network Costs: Developing new standards to protect patients and reduce excessive out-of-network health care costs.
2. Stabilizing the Small Business and Individual Markets: Exploring changes to strengthen the individual and small group insurance market and help moderate  premiums.

Listening Session Schedule

DOI will hold all six listening sessions virtually.  Additional information, including topics and registration details for each session, will be available as the dates approach:

• Wednesday, September 9 at 11:00 AM
• Thursday, October 1 at 10:00 AM
• Monday, October 5 at 10:00 AM
• Monday, October 19 at 10:00 AM
• Monday, November 2 at 10:00 AM
• Thursday, November 5 at 10:00 AM

 Governor Healey has already begun moving forward with other recommendations from the Health Care Affordability Working Group. This includes directing MassHealth to increase its investment in primary care to 12 percent of total medical expenditures by 2028, along with efforts to lower prescription drug costs.

 Patients, consumer advocates, health care providers, insurers, employers and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to participate. Additional information and registration details are available at https://www.mass.gov/news/division-of-insurance-listening-sessions-out-of-network-costs-and-stabilizing-insurance-markets-to-drive-down-premium-costs. 

MBTA扯頭髮事件 今日傳出“付50萬元“和解

         (Boston Orange 編譯) MBTA扯頭髮事件，今（14）日傳出支付50 萬元，解決了。

2024年11月發生的MBTA總經理伍偉華（Philip Eng）在團建聚餐結束時扯了員工頭髮事件，事後據說伍偉華承認自己的行為敏感度不夠，已經道歉，但今年6月因這名員工辭職，條件沒談攏，爆了出來。

MBTA今日公佈了一份和解協議，説明從2023年起擔任MBTA通訊長的Gabrielle Mondestin，將從9月18日起，以包括薪資，損傷及律師費的一次性補償，約49萬5000元，辭職。

波士頓環球報（Boston Globe）稱，在該報得到的協議副本中，伍偉華和Gabrielle Mondestin於8月7日都簽字了的這份協議，沒有伍偉華承認錯誤的字句。

在一份聯合聲明中，MBTA稱許Gabrielle Mondestin的工作真的做得很好，而且知道對一名員工來說，要說出在工作場所中的問題，可能是困難的。

伍偉華當初在一份聲明中寫道，“我為我的行動感到後悔，已經從這經驗學到教訓，也感謝Mondestin女士把重點放在確保MBTA從這事上學得教訓。

Mondestin 在聲明中表示，儘管“我的一些經歷相當艱難”，但她對自己在 T 局（T）的那段時光心懷“感激”；此前，Eng 和 T 局在談及此事時均未公開透露過她的身份。

她說，「我也很高興MBTA的領導重新承諾要聆聽員工心聲，並致力為所有人創造公平及尊重的工作環境。我祝福 MBTA 及其領導團隊未來一切順利，」她說。

MBTA發言人 Joe Pesaturo 表示，“任何騷擾，歧視，或報復行為的指控，都是沒有根據的」。麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）也在事件發生沒多久之後，立即表示她對伍偉華有絕對信心。

麻州贏得1.4億美元聯邦經費 MBTA將改善Haverhill 通勤鐵路交通

    （Boston Orange編譯）麻州州長希莉（Maura Healey）14日宣佈，聯邦鐵路管理局（FRA）將撥款1.396億美元給MBTA，用於在海弗希爾（Haverhill）通勤鐵路的瑞汀（Reading）與安多福（Andover）之間增建約6.8英里雙軌路段，升級無障礙月台，改善15處交通號誌，改善麻州公共交通。

    這筆資金將投入「海弗希爾雙軌計畫」的最終設計與施工，在雷丁（Reading）與安多弗（Andover）之間增設約6.8英里的新軌道，解決長期以來單軌路段造成列車必須交會等待、延誤連鎖擴散的問題。計畫也內容包括升級沿線四座車站，興建高月台，實現無障礙環境，現代化15處鐵路平交道的號誌系統，另增設約10英里圍欄與消除一處平交道，以全面提升安全性。

    麻州政府指出，這項改善不僅讓MBTA通勤乘客享有更順暢、可靠的服務，也同時惠及Amtrak的Downeaster號列車及CSX貨運鐵路，有助於提升區域客貨運效率，並為未來擴充服務奠定基礎。

    麻州政府強調，過去一年多來，MBTA已陸續消除慢速區、增加班次、強化人力，並重啟南岸鐵路（South Coast Rail），如今更結合票價優惠措施，包括秋季月票半價、週末假日同行者1美元優惠，以及長者與公車轉乘免費等政策，鼓勵民眾多使用大眾運輸。「海弗希爾雙軌計畫」是延續既有的改革基礎。

整體而言，這項投資是麻州政府提升公共運輸品質的重要一環，目標是讓民眾今天有更好的搭乘體驗，同時為未來更穩定、更永續的鐵路系統鋪路，進一步帶動區域經濟與生活品質的提升。

Governor Healey Announces $140 Million in Federal Funding for Haverhill Line Improvements

Major investment will reduce delays, improve safety and accessibility for Commuter Rail riders and strengthen Amtrak freight service

BOSTON – Governor Healey today announced that the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has won $139.6 million from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to make major improvements to the Haverhill Commuter Rail line, helping deliver faster, safer and more reliable service for thousands of riders every day.

The funding will support the final design and construction of the Haverhill Double-Track Project, a major upgrade project that will add approximately 6.8 miles of new track between Reading and Andover to allow trains traveling in opposite directors to keep moving instead of waiting for one another. The project will also upgrade four stations in Reading, North Wilmington, Ballardvale and Andover with high-level platforms, to make those stations more accessible, and will modernize signals to improve safety at 15 rail crossings.

“Since taking office, we’ve made historic investments to turn the T around, and riders are seeing the difference with fewer slow zones and more reliable service,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Now we’re keeping that momentum going. This $140 million award will help us make major improvements to the Haverhill Line that mean fewer delays, safer and more accessible stations, and better service for riders. We’re grateful to our federal delegation for helping us bring this funding home to Massachusetts.”

“This $140 million investment is not only going to make major safety, reliability, and accessibility impact along the Haverhill Commuter Rail Line, but it will also directly support Amtrak Downeaster operations and freight rail,” said Interim Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “New double track gives us more operational flexibility and the ability to decrease commute time along the line. Upgrading four stations with high-level platforms is another step closer to a fully accessible MBTA system, and modernizing our signals will help to move trains more safely and reliably through the intercity area. Improving freight allows for more efficient movement of goods and helps to control costs for the public. I’m grateful for the leadership of Governor Healey to make these continued improvements possible and for our Congressional Delegation, MassDOT, and the MBTA for advocating for this funding with the foresight that it will have benefits for decades to come. I also want to thank the Federal Railroad Administration for their partnership and ability to move this project forward and through construction.” 

”This is a big win that will mean fewer delays and smoother rides for Massachusetts commuters,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren. “I fought hard to bring this funding home alongside state partners because investments like this are exactly how we build and strengthen our transportation system across Massachusetts.”

“Double lines deserve double track—I’m proud to have worked with Governor Healey, Secretary Eng, our federal delegation, and state and local leaders to secure this funding for the Haverhill line,” said Senator Edward J. Markey. “By eliminating bottlenecks and improving both Commuter Rail and Amtrak service north of Boston, we can open our region to commuters, families, and visitors alike, better connecting our Commonwealth and northern New England. I’m honored to deliver real, tangible rail benefits to Massachusetts and beyond, and I won’t stop advocating for transformative investments in our state’s transportation system.”

“This is a significant federal investment in the future of commuter rail across the Merrimack Valley. This funding will deliver faster, more reliable service for riders in Haverhill, Lawrence, and communities throughout the region, along with safer crossings and modernized stations that are fully accessible to seniors and riders with disabilities,” said Congresswoman Lori Trahan. “I've been proud to fight alongside Governor Healey for federal funding like this because Massachusetts families deserve a transit system they can count on.”

"This is a tremendous milestone for the Merrimack Valley and the culmination of more than a decade of advocacy to secure the funding needed for critical track and station improvements,” said Senator Barry R. Finegold. “For years, local leaders, residents, and stakeholders have worked together to make the case that investing in our rail infrastructure is essential to the future of our region. I want to thank Senator Markey, Governor Healey, Congresswoman Lori Trahan, and the MBTA for their partnership and commitment in making this investment a reality. These improvements will not only enhance safety, but also create the opportunity for increased train service throughout the Merrimack Valley, helping to ease traffic congestion and shorten commutes for thousands of residents. Better public transportation connects people to jobs, educational opportunities, and economic growth, strengthening our communities and improving quality of life for families across the region." 

“This is tremendous news for the 32nd Middlesex District and the larger region,” said Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian. “The Haverhill Commuter Rail Line is a critical asset for residents, whether they are daily commuters or occasional riders. The upgrades made possible from this significant public investment – including double tracks and station upgrades – will decrease delays and enhance reliability, safety, and rider experience.”

What This Means for Riders

Today, parts of the Haverhill Line have only one track, which means a train sometimes has to wait for another train traveling in the opposite direction to pass. If there is a problem with a train or the track, that single-track section can also cause delays to ripple across the line.

This project will add nearly seven miles of second track between Reading and Andover, allowing trains to move in both directions at the same time and giving the MBTA more options to keep service moving when problems arise. It will also make it easier for crews to perform maintenance without disrupting service or requiring shuttle buses. 

Approximately 10 miles of new fencing will also be installed along the corridor between Andover and Reading to help prevent unauthorized access to the tracks.

The project will also make Reading, North Wilmington, Ballardvale and Andover stations more accessible by adding high-level platforms that allow riders to step directly between the platform and train. The MBTA will improve signals at 15 rail crossings, eliminate the Tewksbury Street crossing in Andover and install approximately 10 miles of new fencing to improve safety along the tracks.

The improvements will benefit not only MBTA Commuter Rail riders but also Amtrak’s Downeaster service, which operates between Boston and Brunswick, Maine, and CSX freight service. By removing delays and increasing capacity, the project will strengthen passenger and freight rail connections throughout the region and support future improvements to rail service.

The Haverhill Line investment is the latest step in Governor Healey’s work to transform transportation across Massachusetts. Since taking office, she has made improving the MBTA a top priority by investing in the workforce, infrastructure and service needed to make the system safer and more reliable for riders. Those investments are delivering results. The MBTA has eliminated slow zones, increased service, strengthened its workforce and moved forward with major projects to replace aging tracks, signals, stations and other infrastructure across the system. Additionally, last year the MBTA opened South Coast Rail, restoring rail service to New Bedford, Fall River and Taunton for the first time in 65 years.

Governor Healey is also working to make Commuter Rail more affordable and encourage more people to ride. Last month, she announced new and extended discounts for the fall, including 50 percent off all monthly Commuter Rail passes from September through November and the extension of the $1 companion fare, which allows monthly passholders to bring a friend or family member with them for $1 on weekends and holidays through November. New fare improvements include free transfers between subway and bus and between buses within a two-hour window, a simpler and consistent bus fare across the system, and free bus rides for Massachusetts residents age 75 and older.

Together, these efforts are focused on giving riders a better T today while making the investments needed for the future. On the Haverhill Line, the new federal funding will address a longstanding bottleneck, improve stations and safety, and build the infrastructure needed for more reliable Commuter Rail service for years to come.

吳弭市長開圓桌會盼延續今夏大活動帶來的經濟效益

（Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）8月12日辦圓桌會議，檢討世足賽等夏季大型活動成效，並公佈在6月賽事期間民眾消費金額達2.18億美元，貢獻出150萬美元稅收，市府希望收集各界意見，鼓勵社區全年舉辦類似活動，延續經濟效益。     根據波士頓市府研究部門分析，6月12日至30日世足賽期間，球迷節、社區直播派對及南車站球場列車等活動，參與人次共計約21萬8,400，帶動出的全市實體消費比2025年同期成長5%。餐飲消費全市增加2%，市中心精華區達15%；酒吧消費全市成長27%，市中心精華區飆升86%，其中寺廟廣場（Temple Place）和公園街（Park Street）區域更高出85.7%。     在世界足球盃舉行期間，為因應人潮，全市211家商家延長營業時間，140家營業至凌晨3時，橫跨25個郵遞區號。聯合街（Union Street）與馬歇爾街（Marshall Street）有89%餐飲店家參與「社交街區」（social district）試辦計畫，寺廟廣場達100%，兩區來客數分別較2025年同期增加60%與40%。此外，31個麻州社區舉辦逾175場活動，市府在各地公園舉辦18場直播派對，6月19日波士頓公園（Boston Common）單日即吸引約6,800名球迷。     波士頓會展與觀光局（Meet Boston）總裁瑪莎．謝里丹（Martha Sheridan）表示，世足賽投資成果可作為未來舉辦大型活動的參考。波士頓市中心聯盟（Downtown Boston Alliance）總裁麥可．尼可斯（Michael J. Nichols）指出，7月市區人潮年增逾10%，週末來訪人數已超越疫情前水準。市議員盧伊瓊（Ruthzee Louijeune）強調將持續關注小型及少數族裔商家，市議員恩里克．佩彭（Enrique Pepen）則肯定這是波士頓近年最熱鬧的夏季。     波士頓市府透露，已透過民間資金與補助款投入40多萬美元支持社區組織與商家，未來將簡化行政程序，鼓勵社區全年自主舉辦活動，將夏季盛事的動能延續下去。 MAYOR MICHELLE WU HOSTS SUMMER IMPACT ROUNDTABLE, HIGHLIGHTING BOSTON’S SUCCESS AND IMPACTS FOLLOWING HISTORIC SUMMER SEASON    City roundtable convened civic leaders, business owners and residents to celebrate success of this summer’s major events and advance efforts to build on momentum for Boston communities across neighborhoods and sectors BOSTON - Friday, August 14, 2026 - Following Boston’s historic summer of major events, Wednesday, August 12, Mayor Michelle Wu hosted a roundtable with civic leaders, business owners, residents and local elected officials to discuss and reflect on the positive impacts that hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Sail Boston 250, and Boston 250 events had on Boston's businesses and communities. At the roundtable, Mayor Wu emphasized the City will continue to gather feedback from residents, partners, and businesses and work to build on the momentum generated across neighborhoods from this summer’s major events.   “When we create space for fun, community will come, and so will the economic impact. This historic summer showcased Boston to the world, and we are grateful to our City teams, public safety officials, community leaders, and local businesses for all their hard work. These major events created economic opportunity in every neighborhood, and we’re determined to carry that momentum forward,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.  Following this summer, the City will continue to work together with partners and businesses to bolster supports and make it easier for communities to create exciting activations and opportunities year-round.  “Our investment in the World Cup paid great dividends, becoming a model for how we pursue future events,” said Martha Sheridan, President & CEO of Meet Boston. “The goal, from the outset, was to ensure that the economic impact of the tournament rippled across our neighborhoods and beyond, allowing for small businesses and community watch parties to flourish, and enhancing the overall visitor experience.” “This summer has been some of the most fun Boston has experienced in a while! We are grateful to have had the whole city be showcased to the world and look forward to more opportunities to show our beautiful neighborhoods,” said City Councilor Enrique Pepen.  “This summer showed us that Boston can handle big events, Boston can handle late nights, and Boston can do fun. We saw tremendous energy across the city, and we saw what is possible when the City, our neighborhoods, and the business community work together,” said City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune. “As Chair of the Committee on Arts, Culture, Entertainment, Tourism and Special Events, I’ve been focused on making sure that the benefits of these moments actually reach the people and businesses that make Boston such a vibrant city. Our committee and my office held hearings, sent letters, and worked closely with the Administration and community and business partners around access to opportunities and resources, particularly for our small and Black & Brown owned businesses. This summer reinforced just how important those partnerships are, and how much more we can accomplish when we start planning early and bring people to the table. We’re going to continue that work on the Council.”

During the Summer Impact Roundtable, the City released preliminary data highlighting community participation, economic impact and activity in the Downtown area and the city’s neighborhoods. Additionally, the City of Boston Research Division’s economic impact analysis currently focuses primarily on the June 2026 World Cup period, with additional July analysis to be incorporated as data becomes available.  Boston World Cup Participation & Economic Impact Approximately 218,400 World Cup-related event visit days were identified in Boston in the June analysis, including FanFest, community watch parties, and South Station stadium-train riders. These participants generated an estimated $83 million in spending during the second half of June. An estimated $1.5 million in tax revenue was generated for the City of Boston. Consumer Spending & Downtown Activity Overall in-person consumer spending in Boston was approximately 5% higher during June 12–30, 2026 than comparable days in 2025. Restaurant spending increased approximately 2% citywide and 15% in Greater Downtown. Restaurant spending peaked on June 21 at approximately 20% above 2025 citywide and 46% higher in Greater Downtown. Bar spending increased approximately 27% citywide and 86% in Greater Downtown. Citywide bar spending peaked at approximately 66% above 2025 levels on June 20. Greater Downtown bar spending peaked at approximately 179% above 2025 levels on June 19. Social Districts & Extended Business Activity 140 businesses extended their hours until 3am.  In total, 211 businesses extended operations by one hour.  These 211 businesses are located in 25 zip codes. On Union and Marshall Streets, 89 percent of bars and restaurants (eight) participated in the social district. On Temple Place, 100 percent of bars and restaurants participated in the social district.   Visits to Union and Marshall Streets were approximately 60% higher than the comparable period in 2025. Visits to Temple Place were approximately 40% higher than 2025. Bar spending in the City Hall area increased approximately 166.3% over the same period. Bar spending in the Temple Place/Park Street area increased approximately 85.7%. Community Activity 31 communities across Massachusetts hosted more than 175 events. 7 fan walks / gatherings were held in Boston The City of Boston hosted 18 watch parties drawing tens of thousands to different parks, and open spaces across the City. On June 19th, the three community watch parties in Boston Common drew approximately 6,800 fans. The City also mobilized over $400,000 in private sector funding and grants to be distributed to community organizations and small businesses across our neighborhoods as part of the 250th celebrations and activating the neighborhoods to celebrate this historic summer.  "This summer proved what’s possible when visionary leadership and local partnership line up to welcome the world to Boston," said Michael J. Nichols, President of the Downtown Boston Alliance. "Thanks to the leadership of Mayor Wu and our state partners, major global moments—from the World Cup and Sail Boston to America’s 250th—were paired with bold policy updates like Boston’s first social districts. The results speak for themselves: July domestic foot traffic rose over 10% year-over-year, weekend visitation topped pre-pandemic levels, and surveyed downtown restaurants saw revenue jump nearly 38% - and even more in the Temple Place Social District. Small businesses thrived, our public realm came alive, and we’ve established a proven blueprint for Downtown’s continued economic success." “Boston’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths”, said Elizabeth Espinal, Vice Counsel of the Dominican Republic. “Major events represent an opportunity to generate economic development in our neighborhoods and support small businesses. From the Dominican Consulate, we value this partnership and remain committed to strengthening our collaboration with the City to expand that impact.” “These major events showed us the power of bringing people together and creating opportunities for small businesses throughout Boston,” said Luis Espinozia, owner of Roundhead Brewery. “We saw firsthand how neighborhood programming can bring people into our communities and create opportunities for local businesses, musicians, artists, and food vendors. I hope we can continue that momentum beyond the World Cup by creating more opportunities for neighborhood-scale events throughout the year.”

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Continued Investment in Early Literacy Tutoring for 338 Schools

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Continued Investment in Early Literacy Tutoring for 338 Schools

Approximately 8,500 tutoring seats will support students in 102 school districts, charter schools, and collaboratives during the 2026–27 school year while launching a new federal research pilot

 
EVERETT – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that 338 schools across 102 school districts, charter schools and collaboratives will receive no-cost, high-impact early literacy tutoring during the 2026-27 school year. The initiative will provide at least 8,485 tutoring seats for students in kindergarten through third grade, with priority given to first-grade students who demonstrate the greatest need in foundational reading skills.

 

The Fiscal Year 2027 state budget includes $20 million to continue the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) Early Literacy Tutoring Initiative. The funding builds on the administration’s investments to strengthen early literacy instruction and help more students become strong readers.

“Every child in Massachusetts deserves the chance to become a strong reader and succeed in school,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That’s why we’re investing in early literacy and making sure students who need extra help can get it. This tutoring will give thousands of students more support to strengthen their reading skills and succeed in the classroom.”

“Strong reading skills set students up for success throughout their education,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We’re giving schools and educators more tools to support students early, meet their individual needs and help them build the skills and confidence they need to succeed.”

This is the third round of early literacy tutoring funding under the Healey-Driscoll Administration. The first round supported 272 schools, followed by an additional 84 schools in the second round. Some schools and districts have participated in more than one round.

The initiative is part of the Administration's broader strategy to improve early literacy, including investments in high-quality instructional materials, professional development for educators, early literacy screening, and targeted support for students. The announcement also builds on recently enacted literacy legislation to strengthen reading instruction and Help schools identify students who need additional support earlier.

“High-impact tutoring is one of the most effective strategies we have for accelerating student learning,” said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. “By continuing to expand access to evidence-based tutoring while strengthening districts' overall literacy systems, Massachusetts is helping more students become successful readers.”

Tutoring will be provided at no cost to participating districts through state funding, remaining Fiscal Year 2026 Fair Share funding and a federal Education Innovation and Research grant from the U.S. Department of Education. DESE-approved tutoring providers will use evidence-based instruction, student data and flexible service models to meet the needs of participating students and schools.

This year, DESE will also launch the Building Ongoing Outcomes in Student Tutoring (BOOST) pilot with support from the federal grant. A subset of participating districts will take part in the pilot, which will help DESE and research partners study different tutoring approaches and how they can both improve immediate literacy gains and long-term student outcomes.

“Districts across Massachusetts continue to demonstrate a strong commitment to evidence-based literacy instruction,” Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez said. “This initiative allows us to partner with schools to provide targeted support for students while continuing to strengthen literacy outcomes across the Commonwealth." 

 

More information about the Massachusetts Early Literacy Tutoring Initiative is available online. 

The 338 schools recommended to receive no-cost early literacy tutoring during the 2026–27 school year are located in the following districts and collaboratives:

 

• Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School (in Worcester)
• Abington Public Schools
• Acushnet Public Schools
• Agawam Public Schools
• Alma del Mar Charter School (in New Bedford)
• Barnstable Public Schools
• Belchertown Public Schools
• Berkley Public Schools
• Beverly Public Schools
• Bi-County Collaborative
• Blackstone-Millville Regional School District
• Boston Public Schools
• Bridge Boston Charter School
• Bridgewater-Raynham Regional School District
• Chelsea Public Schools
• Chicopee Public Schools
• Clinton Public Schools
• Codman Academy Charter School (in Boston)
• Collegiate Charter School of Lowell
• CREST Collaborative
• Danvers Public Schools
• Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District
• Dracut Public Schools
• Dudley-Charlton Regional School District
• Easthampton Public Schools
• Edgartown Public Schools
• Everett Public Schools
• Fall River Public Schools
• Fitchburg Public Schools
• Foxborough Regional Charter School
• Franklin Public Schools
• Freetown-Lakeville Regional School District
• Gardner Public Schools
• Gateway Regional School District
• Greater Commonwealth Virtual School
• Greenfield Public Schools
• Hanover Public Schools
• Haverhill Public Schools
• Holbrook Public Schools
• Holyoke Community Charter School
• Holyoke Public Schools
• Hoosac Valley Regional School District
• Lawrence Public Schools
• Learning First Charter Public School (in Worcester)
• Lee Public Schools
• Leicester Public Schools
• Leominster Public Schools
• Lowell Community Charter School
• Lowell Public Schools
• Ludlow Public Schools
• Lunenburg Public Schools
• Malden Public Schools
• Manchester Essex Regional School District
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Charter School of Excellence (in Springfield)
• Match Charter Public School (in Boston)
• Methuen Public Schools
• Milford Public Schools
• Monomoy Regional School District
• Neighborhood House Charter School (in Boston)
• New Bedford Public Schools
• North Andover Public Schools
• North Middlesex Regional School District
• Northampton Public Schools
• Northbridge Public Schools
• Norton Public Schools
• Oak Bluffs Public Schools
• Old Sturbridge Academy Charter Public School
• Peabody Public Schools
• Petersham Public Schools
• Pittsfield Public Schools
• Plainville Public Schools
• Prospect Hill Academy Charter School (in Cambridge)
• Quabbin Regional School District
• Quaboag Regional School District
• Randolph Public Schools
• Reading Public Schools
• Revere Public Schools
• Rockland Public Schools
• Salem Public Schools
• Saugus Public Schools
• Somerville Public Schools
• South Hadley Public Schools
• Southbridge Public Schools
• Southern Berkshire Regional School District
• Southwick-Tolland-Granville Regional School District
• Springfield Prep Charter School
• Springfield Public Schools
• Stoughton Public Schools
• Taunton Public Schools
• Triton Regional School District
• Tyngsborough Public Schools
• Wakefield Public Schools
• Wareham Public Schools
• Watertown Public Schools
• Webster Public Schools
• Westfield Public Schools
• Weymouth Public Schools
• Winchester Public Schools
• Woburn Public Schools
• Worcester Cultural Academy Charter School
• Worcester Public Schools
• Wrentham Public Schools

MassVentures Announces $4.5 Million in Grant Funding to Help 26 Massachusetts Startups Grow and Create Jobs

MassVentures Announces $4.5 Million in Grant Funding to Help 26 Massachusetts Startups Grow and Create Jobs   START grants help companies turn cutting-edge research into new products, businesses and jobs in Massachusetts

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration and MassVentures today announced $4.5 million in grants to 26 Massachusetts startups developing cutting-edge technologies in life sciences, robotics, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, clean energy and other growing industries.  The funding is being awarded through MassVentures’ SBIR Targeted Technologies (START) Grant Program, which helps Massachusetts companies turn federally funded research into new products and businesses. START grants provide companies with funding to grow their businesses, bring new technologies to market and create jobs in Massachusetts.     “Some of the most exciting new technologies in the world are being developed right here in Massachusetts,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We want the entrepreneurs behind those ideas to start their businesses, create jobs and grow right here too. These grants will help 26 innovative companies take the next step and continue building their future in Massachusetts.”  “Massachusetts has incredible researchers and entrepreneurs with ideas that can change industries and improve people’s lives,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “START gives early-stage companies the support they need to turn those ideas into real products, attract investment and create jobs in communities across our state.”  "Massachusetts has long been a place where groundbreaking ideas become world-changing companies," said Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. "These START grants help companies move breakthrough research from the lab into the marketplace, creating jobs, attracting investment and helping the next generation of deep tech businesses start and scale here in Massachusetts." “The record number of applications we received this year tells us that demand for this kind of support has never been higher,” said MassVentures President and CEO Charlie Hipwood. “The companies we are announcing today represent some of the most exciting science and engineering coming out of Massachusetts — and with state support behind them, they are positioned to turn that research into jobs, capital, and lasting economic impact for the Commonwealth.”  Since launching START in 2012, MassVentures has awarded $46.2 million to 157 companies that have employed more than 3,400 and raised more than $5 billion in private capital. The businesses, 65 percent of which are outside Boston and Cambridge, cover more than 40 locations throughout the state.    START provides grants of $100,000 to $500,000 to help early-stage companies turn federally funded research into growing businesses. The funding supports critical needs not covered by federal research grants, including marketing, business development and intellectual property strategy, helping companies bring new technologies to market and grow in Massachusetts. START supports companies across industries including biotech, robotics, advanced materials, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and clean technology.   The recipients of this year’s Stage III Awards ($500,000) are:     Bloomer Tech (Boston) is making cardiovascular disease visible in women at its earliest, most treatable stages. Its clinically validated Bloomer TAG™ (a medical-grade wearable bra) and digital biomarker platform addresses one of the largest and most costly blind spots in cardiovascular care.  Emvolon (Woburn) is commercializing a platform technology that converts greenhouse gas emissions into carbon-negative fuels and chemicals today.   PhagePro, P.B.C. (Mansfield) is an early-stage biotech startup reimagining bacterial outbreak prevention with rapid-response, oral bacteriophage-based prophylactics.  The recipients of this year’s Stage II Awards ($200,000) are:    AutonomUS Medical Technologies (Cambridge) is developing “The Pocket Interventionalist™,” a handheld device that combines artificial intelligence, ultrasound, and robotics to perform critical medical procedures quickly, safely, and reliably across civilian, military, and point-of-care environments.   Enigma Aerospace (Burlington) is redefining logistics with ultra long-range, autonomous cargo aircraft designed for dual-use applications.    Highland Instruments (Cambridge) is innovating ESStim™, a novel noninvasive brain stimulation platform to help patients address Parkinson's Disease.   Nanopath (Cambridge) is a diagnostics company pioneering the use of plasmonic biosensing to enable point-of-care molecular diagnostics for women's health applications.   Optigon (Somerville) is developing high-speed research instruments and manufacturing inspection tools to accelerate the deployment of solar photovoltaics and other advanced material technologies.   Qunett (Boston) is building the foundational hardware stack for scalable, platform-agnostic quantum networks, paving the way for global quantum connectivity.   Sangtera (Lowell) is developing a breakthrough electrostatic actuation system, delivering high performance in an ultra-compact form factor, for applications from robotics to semiconductor advanced packaging.   The recipients of this year’s Stage I Awards ($100,000) are:   AiRANACULUS (Lowell) is building the future of adaptive, high-performance communications for the world’s most demanding environments with intelligent RF, passive sensing and networking technology that senses, adapts, and reconfigures in real time.  BioDevek (Cambridge) is building the next generation of minimally invasive bleeding control with a sprayable liquid bandage that instantly seals and protects tissue during endoscopy.  CranioSense (Bedford) is building the first noninvasive platform to measure intracranial pressure, delivering a fast, accurate, and low-cost alternative to today’s invasive, high-risk methods.  EvoDenovo (Andover) is developing a breakthrough, rapid-acting biologic to transform the standard of care for severe and treatment-resistant depression.  GelSight (Waltham) is commercializing high-resolution tactile sensing technology for robotics and manufacturing.   InnoTech Precision Medicine (Natick/Cambridge) has developed a pioneering liquid biopsy platform that integrates cancer-risk and host-response biomarkers with AI decision support.  Koi Biotherapeutics (Boston) a spinout of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, is developing a protein-based technology designed to improve the activity, persistence, and durability of engineered cell therapies such as CAR-T.  Limax Biosciences (Boston) has developed a hydrogel-based tissue adhesive platform that delivers rapid, durable bonding to wet tissue surfaces, up to 100–1000× stronger than competing products, to transform biosurgery and integrated drug delivery.  Matrisome Bio (Cambridge) By unlocking the tumor matrix as a powerful therapeutic platform, Matrisome Bio is tackling the largest unmet need in oncology: metastatic solid tumors that often evade traditional cell-targeted therapies.  Myrias Optics, Inc. (Amherst) focuses on metaoptics, diffractive optics, and AR waveguides, delivering wafer-level optical solutions that integrate advanced nanostructures with cost-efficient, high-throughput manufacturing.  Optical Waters (Amherst) is developing patent-pending ultraviolet optical fiber solutions that emit germicidal UV light along their entire length to disinfect small channels, complex geometries, and narrow-diameter tubing where traditional disinfection methods cannot reach.  RISE Robotics (Somerville) is electrifying heavy machinery by replacing traditional hydraulics with high-efficiency, fluid-free actuation systems.  rStream (Somerville) deploys AI-driven waste sorting systems to help the largest events in the world recycle effectively.  SpaceRake (Watertown) is building software-defined laser mesh networks for drones, ground vehicles, and satellites to deliver secure and interference-free connectivity for military and industrial platforms.   Valis Insights (Worcester) is building AI-powered solutions that make recycling more profitable, material supply chains more sustainable, and close the loop on a circular economy for metal production.  Venova Technologies (Cambridge) is developing a novel female contraceptive device designed to be highly effective, long-acting, and side-effect-free.