麻州選票問題今年多達 9 個 廢除娛樂大麻及槍枝管制都在名單上

     （Boston Orange編譯）麻州州務卿威廉蓋文（William F. Galvin）辦公室17日宣佈，今年11月的麻州大選將有9項選票問題，交由選民公投，數量之多追平1994年時的歷史新高，從廢除大麻到管制槍枝，內容多元，目前有一項提案正等待最終審查。

        今年的麻州選民公投問題的數量，原本更多，但麻州最高法院（SJC）早前以麻州檢察長Andrea Campbell辦公室出現認證錯誤，摘要具誤導性等原因，駁回了有關租金管制及削減州所得稅的提案，因而縮減了公投提案的選票問題數量。

        在目前已確定的9個選票問題中，最受矚目的應為「廢除娛樂性大麻合法化」。該案若通過，麻州將成為全美首個逆轉大麻合法化的州。

        大麻產業倡議者已就連署簽名有效份數提出異議。由于威廉爾文辦公室認證的第二輪簽名（12,511份）僅比門檻（12,429份）多出82份，州政府小組預計於本週三做出裁決。

        另一項重大選票問題則是「廢除州內槍枝管制法」，保守派視之為透過公投削減槍枝限制的全美風向球。

        其餘的選票問題，政治與民生改革並重。在政府透明度與選舉方面，麻州審計長Diana DiZoglio推動將公眾記錄法擴大至州長辦公室與州議會；州務卿本人也支持「投票日當天登記」提案。政治體制上，有民主黨人提議取消政黨初選，改採不分黨派的「前兩名（top two）」晉級制。

        經濟與民生層面，有倡議團體提出透過調整體育用品等稅收，籌集逾1億美元以保護自然資源；也有建築提案“重塑區域規劃法（Reshaping zoning laws）」以降低購屋門檻。此外，公設辯護人也爭取集體談判權。最後，商業團體推動修改自動退稅法（Chapter 62F），訴求將「富人稅」納入計算以加速觸發退稅。

        將印在11月大選選票上，交由民眾公投表決的9個選票問題，分別為：

• 娛樂性大麻廢除案： 挑戰2016年通過的合法化法案，若通過將成全美首例（這一選票問題，目前正在做簽名資格審查）。
• 槍枝管制法廢除案： 由第二修正案支持者發起，旨在廢除州內部分槍枝管制措施。
• 公眾記錄法擴大： 訴求將州長辦公室與州議會納入公眾記錄法範圍，提高州政府透明度。
• 全面不分黨派初選： 提議取消政黨初選，改為單一選票，前兩名最高票者晉級大選。
• 選舉日當天登記： 允許居民在投票日當天直接登記並投票。
• 富人稅與自動退稅法（Chapter 62F）修改： 將百萬富翁稅納入退稅公式計算，使其更容易觸發自動退稅。
• 自然資源保護基金： 利用體育用品、高爾夫球場等稅收，預計籌集逾1億美元保護自然景觀。
• 基本款房屋（Starter Homes）地目改革： 調整分區法，允許在較小土地上建造單一家庭房屋以降低房價。
• 公設辯護人公會化： 賦予公共 counsel 服務委員會的公設辯護人集體談判權。

AAJC調查報告證實亞裔與主流社會的新聞消費習慣迥異

     （Boston Orange編譯）亞裔美國人促進正義會（AAJC）上週於華府（D.C.）發佈《匯聚曝光與分歧體驗》報告，首度證實亞裔族群的新聞消費習慣與美國主流大眾截然不同，且深受族裔、移民世代與語言能力影響。

        該研究報告由AAJC和密西根大學資訊學院合作，訪談 2,000 人，填補了過去全國性研究缺乏亞裔社群獨立數據的空白，也深入探討了 AANHPI（亞裔、夏威夷原住民及太平洋島民）社群由於文化背景的差異，對於「文化相關新聞」的需求強烈。

        在防範假訊息上，研究呈現出有趣對比：英語流利度較高者，雖然接觸到網路假新聞的頻率更高，但普遍對能否識別真偽更有信心；然而和一般人想像得不一樣的是，教育程度較高的受訪者，反而顯得比較沒信心。此外，年齡也是影響個體對假訊息擔憂程度的關鍵因素。

        AAJC的 科技、電信與媒體政策高級總監Lia Nitake強調，掌握這些真實數據，能打破過去將亞裔社群單一化看待的假設，對於未來制定公民參與和數位識讀課程至關重要。

        這研究延伸自 2025 年 4 月發布的焦點小組報告。面對現今地方媒體式微與人工智慧（AI）科技的衝擊，AAJC表示未來將持續深入研究，保護 AANHPI 社群免受網路惡意敘事與數位威脅的侵害。

Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC Releases New Report on Media Consumption Among Asian Americans

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC (Advancing Justice – AAJC), in conjunction with our partners at the University of Michigan School of Information, released findings from quantitative research exploring how members of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community consume online information: Converging Exposures, Divergent Experiences: Asian Americans, News and Information Seeking, and the Circulation of Problematic Narratives Online.

 

There exists very limited formal research into how the information consumption habits of AANHPI communities differ those of the broader American public, as most national studies are conducted exclusively in English and often do not contain high enough proportions of Asian Americans for this group to be listed as a separate demographic category. This study shares findings from a multilingual survey of 2,000 individuals nationwide, 1,750 of whom who self-identified as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islanders, and provides important baseline research for how AAHNPI communities access news online. It builds off findings from a related focus group report, Beyond Language Translation, published in April 2025. This latest study found that:

 

• Asian Americans’ media diets are distinct from those of the general U.S. population and are greatly shaped by ethnicity and immigrant generation, language preference, and, at times, language proficiency. As such, there is a great desire among Asian Americans for more culturally-relevant news sources.

• Experiences with, and exposure to, misinformation among Asian Americans were similar to those of the general U.S. population, with some exceptions. While all respondents reported moderate to high exposure to made-up news, higher rates of English-language proficiency correlated with higher exposure rates as well as higher confidence in recognizing made-up news.

• Age, language, education, immigrant generation, and race/ethnicity (especially Asian American vs. NHPI), greatly shaped levels of concern as well as individual attitudes and behaviors. Those with more English-language proficiency tended to be more confident in addressing misinformation concerns, whereas those with more education were less confident, nonintuitively. Age also proved to be a significant factor in concern levels and attributing responsibility to various institutions.

 

“Understanding the online media consumption patterns of communities is critical for everything from shaping civic engagement strategies to crafting digital literacy curriculum. Until now, there has not existed data-driven research focusing on how the broader AANHPI community across generations, ethnic groups, and English-language abilities consume information and engage with harmful online narratives,” said Lia Nitake, Senior Director of Technology, Telecommunications and Media Policy at Advancing Justice – AAJC. “This study allowed us to better understand the experiences of individuals who are often overlooked or homogenized and test assumption often made off of anecdotal evidence and personal experiences.”

 

With local news outlets increasingly under threat and artificial intelligence tools fundamentally changing how individual access information, we look forward to continuing work that explores how to best safeguard AANHPIs from misinformation and other digital threats.

向籃球傳奇Bob Cousy致敬 I-290南橋街通道更名

麻州州長Maura Healey(後中）與Bob Cousy及其家人。（州長辦公室提供圖片）

        (Boston Orange編譯)麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）今（17）日和交通廳官員及地方代表，在伍斯特市（Worcester）舉行典禮，把跨越南橋（Southbridge）街的I-290公路大橋命名為「鮑伯·庫西通道（Bob Cousy Pass）」，表揚這位傳奇球星對麻州體育與社區的卓越終身貢獻。

    「鮑伯·庫西通道（Bob Cousy Pass）」大橋座落在鮑伯庫西母校聖十字學院（College of the Holy Cross）的門戶要道。麻州副州長Kim Driscoll和代理交通廳長兼麻州地鐵（MBTA）總經理伍偉華（Phillip Eng）都出席了這場盛會

    高齡90多歲的籃球名人堂傳奇球星兼在地英雄，對麻州體育與社區的卓越終身貢獻。

    麻州政府表示，用Bob Cousy這位現年90多歲籃球名人的名字，來命名這座每天連接無數人與社區的交通樞紐，完美契合了Bob Cousy無論在球場內外皆扮演著「連結者」的偉大人生。 

    有個「球場哈利·胡迪尼（Houdini of the Hardwood）」，綽號的鮑伯·庫西（Bob Cousy）在紐約市長大，隨後前往伍斯特市的聖十字學院就讀，並開啟了傳奇人生。

    鮑伯·庫西（Bob Cousy）進入職業籃壇後，居然能夠不看人就把球從背後傳出去，革新了籃球打法，被人稱為「球場魔術師」，還成為波士頓塞爾提克隊（Boston Celtics）的當家控球後衛，率隊奪下6座NBA總冠軍，更曾榮獲例行賽MVP、入選13次全明星賽，得過奧運金牌，名列NBA 75大球星之一。

    從球場退役後，鮑伯·庫西（Bob Cousy）以伍斯特市為家，著了數十年。庫西家族在典禮上感性表示，全家人都對慷慨接納他們的城市與社區深懷感激。

    麻州公路管理局長古利佛（Jonathan Gulliver）指出，「鮑伯·庫西通道（Bob Cousy Pass）」這座永久性的地標，不僅向傳奇致敬，更將持續激勵麻州未來的年輕運動員與後代子孫。

Governor Healey Celebrates Dedication of “Bob Cousy Pass” Honoring Basketball Legend   

WORCESTER — Governor Maura Healey today joined Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng, Bob Cousy and his family, local officials and community members to dedicate the “Bob Cousy Pass”, honoring Hall of Fame basketball legend Bob Cousy for his extraordinary athletic achievements and lifelong contributions to Massachusetts. 

The bridge, which carries I-290 over Southbridge Street in Worcester, will serve as a lasting tribute to one of the greatest players in basketball history and one of Massachusetts' most celebrated hometown heroes. 

"Bob Cousy changed the game of basketball forever, but his impact reaches far beyond the court," said Governor Maura Healey. "He has represented Worcester and Massachusetts with integrity, humility and excellence throughout his life. It's only fitting that this bridge, which connects people and communities every day, will forever carry the name of someone who has inspired generations on and off the court, myself included." 

 "Bob Cousy's story is part of Worcester's story," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "His talent, determination and commitment to giving back have made him a role model for generations of young people across Massachusetts. We're proud to celebrate his incredible legacy with this permanent tribute." 

Known around the world as the "Houdini of the Hardwood," Bob Cousy revolutionized the game of basketball. As the legendary point guard for the Boston Celtics, Bob Cousy helped lead the Boston Celtics to six NBA championships during one of the most successful eras in franchise history. A 13-time NBA All-Star, NBA Most Valuable Player, Olympic gold medalist and member of both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team, Cousy revolutionized the point guard position with his passing, ball handling and creativity. 

Raised in New York City, Cousy attended the College of the Holy Cross before beginning his legendary professional career. Throughout his life, he has remained a proud ambassador for Worcester and Massachusetts through his civic leadership, philanthropy and commitment to mentoring future generations. 

“We as a family feel ever so fortunate to have lived in Worcester, a community which is so generously embraced our dad and us,” said The Cousy Family. “Dad‘s love for Holy Cross and for Worcester infused all of us in the family. We are grateful that our parents to have chosen this community to make their home.” 

"As the ultimate Crusader Legend, Bob Cousy represents the very best of living for and with others," said Holy Cross Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Kit Hughes. "From our campus and the Worcester community to the global stage of basketball, his influence is immeasurable. We are deeply grateful to Governor Healey for permanently anchoring Bob's impact in our state's history by naming the Cousy Pass at the gateway of the Holy Cross campus. A truly fitting tribute!" 

“The dedication of this bridge in honor of Bob Cousy is a fitting tribute to a local legend whose legacy extends far beyond the basketball court. The recognition by the Healey-Driscoll Administration demonstrates what can be accomplished through strong collaboration and a shared commitment to preserving and honoring our history. The Bob Cousy Pass will stand as a lasting reminder of Bob Cousy’s remarkable contributions to Worcester, Massachusetts and generations of athletes and fans who continue to be inspired by his example,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation & MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng.    

"Today, we were proud to honor one of Massachusetts' most iconic sports figures. Dedicating this bridge is a fitting tribute to a legend whose legacy of excellence, perseverance, and leadership continues to inspire the Commonwealth. We are proud to recognize Bob Cousy’s remarkable contributions with a lasting landmark that will serve as a reminder of his influence for years to come,” said Undersecretary of Transportation and State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver.  

 

Today's dedication celebrates not only Bob Cousy's remarkable athletic accomplishments, but also his enduring legacy of leadership, service and community that continues to inspire people across Massachusetts. 

「吳弭市長戶外電影之夜」7/17~9/13 在波士頓市14個公園舉行

         (Boston Orange編譯) 波士頓公園及休閒局（Boston Parks and Recreation Department）為慶祝美國250週年，將於2026年7月17日至9月3日，在全市14座公園推出「吳弭市長戶外電影之夜（Mayor Michelle Wu’s Movie Nights）」，全部免費入場，免費爆米花先到先得。
        片單由「波士頓市長青年委員會」（Boston Mayor’s Youth Council）票選產生，涵蓋闔家歡樂動畫（《動物方城市2》、《壞蛋聯盟2》、《艾立歐》、《跳躍者》、《山羊》）、賣座強片（《超人》、《大蟒蛇》、《魔法壞女巫：好戲上場》），以及慶祝美國建國250週年的特別放映（《馬爾科姆·X》、《十月的天空》、《國家寶藏》、《漢密爾頓》）。所有影片於黃昏時分開演，現場提供免費爆米花，送完為止。
這項活動由波士頓公園及休閒局主辦，美國銀行贊助，並獲市長旅遊、體育暨娛樂辦公室額外支持，是波士頓夏季最受歡迎的家庭活動之一。
        吳弭市長表示，今年的片單由青年領袖參與挑選，融入年輕視角，也呼應國家歷史紀念。
吳弭市長說：「波士頓公園電影之夜是每年夏天最受家庭喜愛的活動之一，也是免費又好玩，讓大家享受波士頓市美麗公園的方式。今年的片單由青年委員會成員精心挑選，並納入慶祝美國250週年的特別放映。

完整放映場次（所有場次皆於黃昏開演，免費入場）：
7月17日（週五）—在洛士百利（Roxbury）的Malcolm X Park放映《馬爾科姆·X（Malcolm X，美國250週年場）》。
8月4日（週二）—在南端（South End）的Titus Sparrow Park，放映《動物方城市2（Zootopia 2）》。
8月10日（週一）—在布萊頓（Brighton）的Rogers Park，放映《壞蛋聯盟2（The Bad Guys 2）》。
8月11日（週二）—在洛士百利（Roxbury）的Marcella Playground ，放映《超人（Superman）》。
8月12日（週三）—在羅森岱爾（Roslindale）的Healy Playground放映《十月的天空（October Sky）》，美國250週年場 + 流星雨觀測活動。
8月15日（週六）—在牙買加平原（Jamaica Plain）的Jamaica Pond，放映《國家寶藏（National Treasure）》，美國250週年場。
8月17日（週一）—在多徹斯特（Dorchester）的Walsh Playground
，放映《超人（Superman）》。
8月19日（週三）—在西洛士百利（West Roxbury）的Draper Playground，放映《山羊（Goat）》。
8月20日（週四）—在海德公園（Hyde Park）的Iacono Playground，放映《大蟒蛇（Anaconda）》。
8月25日（週二）—在東波士頓（East Boston）的東波士頓紀念公園，放映《艾立歐（Elio）》。
8月26日（週三）—在查理士城（Charlestown）的Training Field，放映《山羊（Goat）》。
8月27日（週四）—在南波士頓（South Boston）的Moakley Park，放映《跳躍者（Hoppers）》。
8月29日（週六）—在後灣（Back Bay）的柯普利廣場（Copley Square），放映《魔法壞女巫：好戲上場（Wicked: For Good）》。
9月3日（週四）—在市政府廣場（City Hall Plaza）放映《漢密爾頓（Hamilton）》，美國250週年場。
所有「公園藝術」（ParkARTS）活動均免費。最新資訊請上 Boston.gov/MovieNight，或致電 (617) 635-4505，訂閱電子郵件，或追蹤社群頻道：Facebook、Instagram 請搜尋 @bostonparksdept，Bluesky 請搜尋 @parks.boston.gov。

Mayor Michelle Wu’s Movie Nights begin July 17 

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department ParkARTS program presents Mayor Wu’s Movie Nights, a free outdoor film series featuring family favorites, blockbuster hits, and special screenings celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. The series will take place in parks across Boston from July 17 through September 3, 2026. 

“Boston’s Movie Nights in the Parks are one of our most popular activities for families every summer, and they are a free, fun way to enjoy our beautiful parks,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “This year's lineup was curated by members of our Youth Council and includes special screenings celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Thanks to our partners and organizers for helping us create a fun and safe environment where families can make new memories and share our history and culture through these films.” 

The Mayor’s Movie Nights series is hosted by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department and sponsored by Bank of America with additional support from the Mayor’s Office of Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment. All movies begin at dusk. Free fresh popcorn will be available while supplies last. 

“There is nothing like watching a movie under the stars, and Mayor Wu’s Movie Night Series makes that magic possible,” said Diana Fernandez Bibeau, Commissioner of Boston Parks and Recreation and Deputy Chief of Open Space. “Our parks are where people come together to make memories with family and friends. We’re thrilled to bring back free screenings of some of this year’s biggest family films and are excited to debut a selection of special America 250 showings. We are incredibly grateful to our partners at the Mayor’s Office of Sports, Tourism, and Entertainment for helping bring these experiences to people of all ages across Boston.”

This year’s lineup was shaped with guidance from the Boston Mayor’s Youth Council, whose members voted to select films. The Mayor’s Youth Council empowers young people to be civic leaders, share their perspectives, and help shape programs and initiatives that impact Boston communities. 

"We're thrilled to continue this partnership with Boston Parks and Recreation, bringing free movie nights to communities across the city this summer,” said Director of Special Events, Amy Yandle. “These events are about more than just films on a screen, they're about creating shared moments and lasting memories for Boston families.”

Special screenings celebrating America’s 250th anniversary will feature films including Malcolm X, October Sky, National Treasure, and Hamilton. 

Dates and locations are as follows:

Friday, July 17 
Malcolm X
Malcolm X Park, Roxbury, Movie Night 250

Tuesday, August 4
Zootopia 2
Titus Sparrow Park, South End

Monday, August 10
The Bad Guys 2
Rogers Park, Brighton

Tuesday, August 11
Superman
Marcella Playground, Roxbury

Wednesday, August 12 
October Sky 
Healy Playground, Roslindale 
Meteor Shower Program + Movie Night 250

Saturday, August 15
National Treasure
Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain, Movie Night 250

Monday, August 17
Superman
Walsh Playground, Dorchester

Wednesday, August 19
Goat
Draper Playground, West Roxbury

Thursday, August 20
Anaconda
Iacono Playground, Hyde Park

Tuesday, August 25
Elio
East Boston Memorial Park, East Boston

Wednesday, August 26
Goat
Training Field, Charlestown

Thursday, August 27
Hoppers
Moakley Park, South Boston

Saturday, August 29
Wicked: For Good
Copley Square, Back Bay

Thursday, September 3
Hamilton
City Hall Plaza, Downtown, Movie Night 250

All ParkARTS performances are free of charge. For more information please go to  Boston.gov/MovieNight. To stay up to date with news, events, and improvements in Boston parks visit boston.gov/parks, call (617) 635-4505, join our email list, and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on Facebook, Instagram, and @parks.boston.gov on Bluesky.

Massachusetts Senate passed bill to protect healthcare workers

Legislation responds to reports that nearly 7 in 10 nurses have experienced workplace assault, requiring annual security reviews and new protections for victims 

(BOSTON—7/16/2026) The Massachusetts Senate acted today to support the safety of frontline health care workers by improving vital security protocols at hospitals and doctors’ offices across the state.  

Responding to a troubling spate of violent incidents, the Senate’s legislation would require annual reviews of security protocols and potential risks at health care facilities. 

The legislation passed by the Senate, S.3171, also helps law enforcement make timely arrests for assaults at health care facilities, extends new supports to health care employees who are assaulted on the job, and shields victims’ personal information from assailants. 

“Health care workers show up every day to take care of us. The least we can do is make sure they're safe while they do it,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Today we are giving hospitals and law enforcement the tools they need to prevent violence before it happens and respond quickly when it does, so our nurses, doctors, and health care staff can focus on what they do best: caring for patients. I am grateful to Chair Rodrigues for stewarding this legislation, to Chair Lovely for her leadership, and to each member for their support.”  

“No health care worker should ever be subjected to violence in the course of their duties, working long hours to selflessly care for their patients,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “It’s alarming that almost seven out of 10 nurses have reported workplace violence, an unacceptable statistic that must end now. Our dedicated health care workers will now have updated workplace violence prevention programs and a stronger support system to ensure a safe and professional workplace environment. The legislation also addresses privacy issues, shielding a victim’s identity to allow for retribution-free reporting of violent incidences, and safeguarding an employee’s earned time for injuries sustained on the job. I would like to thank Senator Lovely her tireless efforts to move this legislation forward.” 

“Health care workers do God’s work every day to selflessly care for our loved ones and all Massachusetts’ residents,” said Senator John J. Cronin (D-Fitchburg), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security. “Today, the Senate took action so our laws better protect our health care workforce when they’re taking care of us.” 

“Every 36 minutes, a health care worker in Massachusetts is assaulted or threatened on the job,” said Senator Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem), lead Senate sponsor of the legislation. “That is not the job description, and it never should be a reality for any professional. The bill the Senate passed today is built on legislation I have filed session after session on behalf of our nurses, our front-line caregivers, and our hospitals. It requires every facility to assess its own risks with its own workers, build a real prevention program, and ensure accountability. It gives an assaulted worker paid leave, privacy, and a lawful response. I thank Senate President Spilka and Chair Rodrigues for making this a Senate priority, and I thank the nurses who never stopped telling us what was happening on their floors.” 

Nearly seven out of 10 nurses report having experienced an assault in the workplace, according to data shared by the Massachusetts Nurses Association, 1199SEIU, and the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association. 

The Senate bill backs up law enforcement officers who respond to those incidents by allowing timely, warrantless arrests for line-of-duty assault and battery on a health care employee. This reasonable use of a warrantless arrest, in situations where the officer has probable cause to believe the suspect committed the assault, is similar to existing exceptions to allow timely arrests in domestic violence cases. 

Supporting health care employees who are assaulted on the job, the bill requires employers to offer paid leave that covers an employee’s time seeking medical treatment and aiding in the prosecution of their attacker. It would also shield the victim’s personal, residential address on criminal complaints. 

Full details of the bill are available in a fact sheet in the Senate’s press room. 

The Senate Committee on Ways and Means redrafted the legislation and advanced it to the full Senate with a 13-0 vote on July 9, 2026. Previous versions of the bill were reviewed by the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security and passed by the House of Representatives. 

The Senate passed the bill and sent it to the House of Representatives for further consideration. 

PLANNING ADVANCES AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN ALLSTON, EAST BOSTON, MISSION HILL, AND ROSLINDALE

BOSTON – Thursday, July 16, 2026 – The Planning Department this month recommended approval of seven new development projects representing approximately 531,254 square feet (SF). All were approved. The newly approved development proposals will create 501 new homes, including 82 that are designated income-restricted, and will support approximately 475 construction jobs and 46 permanent jobs. The projects advanced today will help make Boston a more resilient, affordable, and equitable city. Development Projects Project at 1200 Soldiers Field Road to bring new housing to Allston Housing: 58 residential units, ten income-restricted units Jobs: Approximately 71 construction jobs Community: Bike parking, roof deck, public realm improvements Sustainability: Passive House, LEED Gold Located in Allston, this new, six-story building will include 58 homes, ten of which will be income-restricted. This project aligns with the Western Avenue Corridor Study and Rezoning, adopted by the Board in 2022, which encourages the development of multi-family housing along Soldiers Field Road. As part of the community benefits and mitigation for this project, it will contribute new sidewalks in the vicinity to enhance pedestrian safety, as well as a bikeshare dock on site. In addition, the project will contribute $25,000 to the Department of Conservation and Recreation in support of open space in the area, and $49,000 to the Boston Transportation Department in support of the bikeshare system. Residents will also benefit from a subsidized MBTA pass for the first year that they live there. 34-36 Pratt Street project to build housing in Allston Housing: 39 residential units, seven income-restricted units Jobs: Approximately 42 construction jobs Community: Bike parking, close proximity to public transportation Sustainability: Green space, preservation of tree canopy, energy-efficient building This project will convert two residential buildings in Allston into 39 new homes, seven of which will be income-restricted. The homes will be a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. The new six-story building will feature bike parking and improved sidewalks to support the goals of the Allston-Brighton Needs Assessment and the Allston-Brighton Mobility Plan. The project will contribute $10,725 to the Boston Transportation Department in support of the bikeshare system.  New hotel, restaurant space to be built at 275 E Cottage Street in Dorchester Housing: 42 hotel rooms/extended stay suites Jobs: Commercial space, approximately 38 construction jobs Community: Providing a new place for tourists to stimulate the local economy Sustainability: Net Zero Carbon, all-electric building Located near the corner of Dorchester Avenue in Dorchester, this project will build a new six-story, 42-room hotel with extended stay suites. The project will connect to the adjacent development, creating a large restaurant space on the ground floor. The restaurant will also have a presence on the rooftop. The project will provide an alternative to short-term rentals in private apartments throughout the neighborhood, while also providing a new place for tourists to stay and support the local businesses in the area. Public realm improvements will include wider sidewalks, as well as new street trees. The project will make a $3,258 contribution to the Boston Transportation Department in support of the bikeshare program.  9 Chelsea Street project to build new, transit-oriented housing in East Boston Housing: 120 residential units, 22 income-restricted units Jobs: Approximately 73 construction jobs, retail space Community: Public realm improvements Sustainability: Passive House, LEED Gold This project will build a new, mixed-use building including 120 new homes, 22 of which will be income-restricted. The units will be a mix of studios, one-, and two-bedrooms. The ground floor will include retail and amenity space, and the building will also include a roof deck for residents. This will be a transit-oriented development, as it is located between the Maverick and Airport MBTA stations. The project aligns with the goals of PLAN: East Boston by providing ground floor retail to activate Maverick Square, and by supporting a pedestrian-friendly environment. The project will contribute new and wider sidewalks in the vicinity of the new building, as well as bike parking, and $49,000 to the Boston Transportation Department in support of the bikeshare system. The project will also contribute $103,000 to the Boston Transportation Department to support the implementation of the City’s Maverick Square Transportation Action Plan. 85 Parker Hill Avenue project to build new housing in Mission Hill  Housing: 103 residential units, eight income-restricted units Jobs: Approximately 80 construction jobs Community: Outdoor space Sustainability: Renovation and reuse of existing building Located in Mission Hill, this project will fully renovate the existing assisted-living facility into multi-family housing with 103 new homes, eight of which will be income-restricted. They will be a mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. The building will also include bike parking. The project will also contribute $28,325 to the Boston Transportation Department in support of the bikeshare system, as well as $5,000 to the Mission Hill Link Bus. 4301 Washington Street project to bring new homeownership opportunities to Roslindale Housing: 16 homeownership units, two income-restricted units Jobs: Approximately 23 construction jobs Community: New trees, contribution to bikeshare program, close proximity to public transit Sustainability: Net Zero Carbon What is currently a vacant building will be demolished to make way for a new, four-story residential building which will include 16 new homes. These will be a mix of two- and three-bedroom homeownership units. Two of these units will be income-restricted. The development will include new landscaping, and pedestrian access to the new building. This will be a transit-oriented development, as it is in close proximity to the MBTA Commuter Rail. In addition, the project will contribute $15,125 to the Boston Transportation Department in support of the bikeshare program. This project fulfills the original goals of the Roslindale Square: Squares + Streets plan for incremental growth in neighborhood centers such as Roslindale Village. Because it is compliant with this plan and recent rezoning, the project will not require zoning relief. Project at 3841 Washington Street will build more than 100 new homes in Roslindale Housing: 165 residential units, 33 income-restricted units Jobs: Approximately 123 construction jobs Community: Close proximity to MBTA Orange Line, bike parking Sustainability: Net Zero Carbon, LEED Gold Located in Roslindale, this project will build a new, mixed-use building containing 165 new homes, 33 of which will be income-restricted, and ground-floor commercial space. These will be a mix of studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. Mitigation for this project will include wider sidewalks, the relocation of an MBTA bus shelter, and new landscaping including new street trees. This will be a transit-oriented development, as it is in close proximity to the MBTA Orange Line. The building will also provide bike parking to encourage alternate forms of transportation. The project will contribute $49,000 to the Boston Transportation Department in support of the bikeshare system. In addition to these projects, the Board approved: An update to a previously approved project at 3326 Washington Street to make the project larger, and amend the amount of income-restricted units on site.

打擊黃牛票 向歌手Noah Kahan致敬 Healey州長提交「大分歧法案」

歌星Noah Kahan（左）連線出席麻州州長Maura Healey(右）打擊黃牛記者會。
（周菊子攝）

       (Boston Orange編譯)麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）今（16）日宣佈將提出「大分歧法案（The Great Divide Act）」，規定體育賽事與演唱會門票的二次轉售價格不得超過原價的110%、平台服務費上限設為10%，建立全美最嚴格的保護消費者免受黃牛票之苦機制。

麻州州長Maura Healey說明她提出這法案，是為遏止黃牛票亂象，
還給民眾以合理票價欣賞音樂會，看球賽的機會。（周菊子攝）

        該提案為打擊二次轉售的票價過高，同時要求全面禁止賣家銷售尚未實際取得的「投機性票券（speculative tickets）」，手續費也只允許頂多收10%。

        奚莉州長將在遞交補充預算時，納入這一提案。

        近年在美國流行樂壇迅速崛起的民謠流行（Folk-Pop）與自傳式獨立民謠歌手，以木吉他演唱的Noah Kahan，甫於 7 月 7 日、8 日、10 日及 11 日，創下芬衛球場（Fenway Park）連續四晚演唱會門票售罄歷史紀錄。

        奚莉州長還特地把2026 年 7 月 11 日訂為麻州的「諾亞·卡漢日（Noah Kahan Day）」，向他致敬。

        然而，Noah Kahan這次在芬衛球場舉辦的「大分歧巡迴演唱會（The Great Divide Tour）」，門票價格炒得實在太高了，原本一張一般座位或站票的門票價格，是$50~$150之間，但在例如StubHub等二次轉售平台上，即使是距離舞台最遠、甚至有柱子遮擋的「視野受限區（Obstructed View）」，二手票最便宜也要 $450 至 $800 美元起跳。靠近舞台或球場草皮區（Turf/Field Zone）的好位置，一張二手票更被炒到 $2,700 至 $5,300 美元。

        更可惡的是，由於芬衛球場採用美國職棒大聯盟（MLB）的Ballpark App票務系統。黃牛為了搶出售機會，會在二手平台上掛出許多賣家根本還沒取得的「預測票/投機票（Speculative Tickets）」。結果許多歌迷大老遠跑來波士頓、訂了飯店，臨到開演前一刻才發現賣家交不出票，只能在球場外“徒呼負負”。

        再加上，FIFA世界杯足球賽在吉列體育場（Gillette Stadium）舉辦期間，也出現許多球迷買到假票而無法進場情況，

        麻州州長奚莉因此決定遞交法案，訂定除非演出者或場館有書面協議特別授權，否則票券轉售上限為面額的110%（例如100美元的門票最高僅能賣110美元）。如 StubHub 與 SeatGeek 等轉售平台收取的服務費，必須從目前的動輒20%以上，降至10%以下，有如直接砍半。同時禁止轉售網站偽裝成官方場館的誤導民眾。

        Noah Kahan本人也長期反對掠奪性的黃牛票轉售，曾推動佛蒙特州（Vermont）通過類似法案。16日這天，他應希莉州長之邀，特地連線出席記者會，直言他極力支持麻州打擊黃牛與黃牛市場操控，保護廣大歌迷權益。

        奚莉州長特地把這法案名稱訂為 「大分歧法案（The Great Divide Act）」，藉以向Noah Kahan這次的同名巡迴演唱會致意。

Governor Healey Takes Action to Cut Concert, Sports Ticket Resale and Fees  

Legislation caps ticket resale prices at 110% of original price, cuts resale fees in half and prohibits speculative ticket sales 

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today announced that she will file An Act Relative to Closing the Great Divide between Ticket Prices and Affordability, or The Great Divide Act, to lower sports and concert ticket resale prices and ensure that fans have a fair opportunity to enjoy the events they love without paying exorbitant prices on the secondary market. The legislation would establish some of the nation's strongest consumer protections for the secondary ticket marketplace, building on reforms recently adopted in states such as Vermont and Maine. 

The Governor’s proposal, which will be included in her upcoming closeout supplemental budget, caps the resale price of concert tickets at 110 percent of the price of the face value of the original ticket. It also limits the service fees and charges that can be imposed by ticket resellers like StubHub and SeatGeek to no more than 10 percent of the total price of the ticket for resale. It prohibits the sale of speculative tickets, which are tickets that are not in the possession of the seller when they are listed for sale. Finally, it implements additional consumer protections measures, including prohibiting the use of deceptive websites by ticket resellers and misleading consumers about the availability of tickets.   

The name of the proposal is a nod to singer and songwriter Noah Kahan, who recently made history as the first artist ever to headline four consecutive sold-out shows at Fenway Park. Kahan has been a vocal opponent against predatory resale practices and successfully advocated for a similar bill in Vermont. 

“Far too many Massachusetts residents have experienced the pain of being excited to buy tickets to see their favorite singer or sports team, only to realize that resale prices and fees have driven up the cost to outrageous levels,” said Governor Healey. “Or how about when you do purchase tickets from a reseller, only to get to the venue to realize the seller never actually transfers them to you? Enough is enough. We are taking action to lower ticket resale prices so Massachusetts fans can better afford to see their favorite performer or team.” 

During the press conference announcing the legislation, Governor Healey was joined virtually by Noah Kahan, who threw his support behind the measure: “I heard about what you’re announcing today and I just wanted to let you know how excited I am about it. The artist community and fans will greatly benefit from limiting ticket scalping and the sales of speculative tickets. I love my fans and want to protect them however I can. Artists alone could not tackle the market manipulation of secondary resellers. So, thank you so much for making this a priority in Massachusetts.” 

Under the proposal, concert tickets cannot be resold for more than 110 percent of their original face value, unless an artist or venue explicitly authorizes a higher resale cap through a written agreement. For example, if a ticket originally cost $100, it could be resold for no more than $110.   

The bill limits the service fees charged by ticket resale marketplaces to no more than 10 percent of the listed resale price for sporting events and non-sporting events like concerts. For example, if a ticket is listed for resale on a resale platform for $300, the service fee charged by the resale platform cannot exceed $30. Today, many resale platforms charge service fees of roughly 20 percent or more, adding hundreds of dollars to the cost of tickets. This proposal is expected to cut resale service fees typically paid by consumers today in half. 

The legislation also prohibits the sale of speculative tickets, meaning tickets that a seller does not actually have when they list them for sale. Too often, consumers pay for these tickets only to find out they are never delivered. During this summer's World Cup matches at Gillette Stadium, some fans who purchased tickets through online resale platforms were turned away after discovering the tickets they bought never existed. 

The bill includes additional consumer protections to prohibit deceptive resale websites that falsely suggest they are affiliated with artists or venues and to prevent resellers from misleading consumers about ticket availability or scarcity.

波士頓市府交通規劃師Louisa Gag在天滿街上騎自行車時遇撞身亡 倡議安全團體提5大要求

     （Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市交通規劃師Louisa Gag於7月9日在天滿街（Tremont）上騎自行車時被撞死一事，引發自行車安全倡導團體以4000多人簽名的公開信，提出5大要求，促請波士頓市府於7月31日前書面回覆。

    波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）在7月16日晚的追思會上承諾，將全面升級自行車道保護並重啟道路安全計畫。

    現年35歲的Louisa Gag，生前致力改善城市交通，早年還是吳弭擔任市議員時期的實習生。7月16日晚在波士頓市府廣場舉行的追思會中，吳弭誓言波士頓市在改善道路上必須做得更好，自行車安全倡導團體則指出，市府早在 2023 年就評估該失事路段有安全隱患，相關改善工程卻遲遲未動工。

    波士頓環球報引述人群中長期倡議自行車安全的Peter Cheung的話，「我們只是想要看到改變，而且希望快點看到，只有那樣，情況才會更好」。

    自行車安全倡導團體在7月16日晚的追思會上，遞交給吳弭市長一封有4000多人簽名，其中約2300人為波士頓居民的公開信，並提出5大要求，包括在30 天內重啟所有延誤的道路安全專案並恢復預算，採取「先快速建設、後修正優化」的方針，公布高風險路段改善時間表，任命重視交通零死亡的街道局長，市府必須在 7 月 31 日前做出書面答覆。

    吳弭市長在現場情緒激動，坦言她曾掙扎是否出席這追思會，最後在Louisa Gag父母的鼓勵下到場。她誓言將全面分析事故路段缺陷，嚴厲打擊占用自行車道的違規停車。

    這起車禍警方目前仍在調查中。據匿名消息指出，事發時一輛 18 輪聯結車在狹窄路段為了繞過其他車輛而撞上Louisa Gag，肇事司機目前尚未被起訴。

麻州參議會通過法案 醫院禁用含致癌化學物醫療設備

        （Boston Ｏrange編譯）麻州議會今（16）日通過第S.3106號法案，全面禁止在麻州醫院使用的靜脈注射（IV）袋與軟管中添加致癌化學物質鄰苯二甲酸二(2-乙基己基)酯（DEHP）。

        麻州參議會議長Karen E. Spilka和參議會財政委員會主席Michael Rodrigues，參議會經濟發展與新興技術委員會主席Barry Finegold今日聯袂宣佈，參議會通過這項跨黨派法案，旨在消除醫療過程中的二次毒性風險，現已正式送交州長奚莉（Maura Healey）簽署，預計將帶動全美醫療器材安全的新標準。

        塑膠醫療設備長期以來廣泛使用DEHP來提升柔軟度，但「乳癌預防夥伴組織（Breast Cancer Prevention Partners）」等機構的研究指出，該化學物質會干擾人體內分泌系統，並顯著增加使用者罹患乳癌、肝癌、肺癌及睾丸癌的風險。

        麻州參議會新通過的「無毒醫療器材法案（An Act relative to toxic-free medical devices）」將禁止在麻州製造與銷售故意添加DEHP的輸液容器及軟管，全面要求醫院過渡至既有的安全替代品。

        麻州政界與醫療界都大力支持這法案。參議會議長Karen Spilka和眾議會議長Ronald J. Mariano強調，患者不應擔心救命設備會危害健康，這是維護公共衛生的常識性改革。

        主導提案的參議員Joan B. Lovely、眾議員James J. O'Day，以及參議會籌款委員會主席Michael J. Rodrigues、公共衛生聯合委員會主席William J. Driscoll Jr.和Marjorie C. Decker都表示，此法將給醫療機構靈活的轉型期，在確保醫療設備在安全無虞中順利完成替換。

        目前這法案正等待州長簽署生效，麻州將藉此創下醫療品質的新標竿，並加速醫療設備邁向無毒醫療時代。

Legislature Bans Cancer-Linked Chemical from IV Bags in Massachusetts 

Legislation prohibits DEHP — linked to breast, liver, lung, and testicular cancer — from intravenous bags and tubing used in Massachusetts hospitals 

  

(BOSTON—7/16/2026) Today the Massachusetts Legislature voted to ban the use of a toxic chemical commonly added to plastic intravenous (IV) bags and linked to cancer cases in Massachusetts. 

  

The bill would phase out the use of DEHP—a toxic chemical—in IV bags and tubing in Massachusetts. Many IV bags currently contain DEHP, which is added to improve the plastic’s flexibility but can pose serious health dangers to patients. 

  

“Today the Legislature took action to make sure that no patient in Massachusetts has to wonder whether the equipment keeping them alive is also putting their health at risk,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “This bill takes a known carcinogen out of common hospital equipment and replaces it with safer alternatives that are already available. I'm grateful to Chair Rodrigues, Chair Driscoll, and Senator Lovely for their persistence on this issue, to our partners in the House, and to the doctors, nurses, and advocates who raised their voices to make sure we got this done.” 

  

“These are common-sense reforms that will protect patients in Massachusetts from toxic chemicals that are linked to cancer,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Leader O’Day, Chair Decker, and all my colleagues in the House, along with our partners in the Senate, for recognizing the need for these important protections.” 

  

“Today the Legislature took a bold step forward, ensuring that residents in Massachusetts will be safer when they enter a hospital, now knowing that the medical implements and equipment utilized are free of unnecessary contaniments,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “This legislation will phase out the manufacturing and selling of DEHP, a known environmentally harmful additive to IV bags and tubing. We need to do all we can to make our health care environment the safest possible for all patients in Massachusetts. I would like to thank Senator Lovely and Representative O’Day for their staunch advocacy in the passage of this legislation.” 

  

The legislation—S.3106, An Act relative to toxic-free medical devices—would prohibit the manufacture or sale of IV containers and tubing made with intentionally added DEHP. DEHP—Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate—has been linked to breast, liver, lung, and testicular cancer, according to Breast Cancer Prevention Partners. 

  

“We are once again elevating the standard of care in the Commonwealth and we should all be proud of that. When implemented, this will improve the health of patients by decreasing exposure to toxins and known carcinogens,” said Senator William J. Driscoll Jr. (D-Milton), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Public Health. “We have a duty to keep patients and healthcare providers safe. As the Senate Chair of Public Health and a family member with loved ones receiving the types of care that this legislation applies to, I am grateful to all involved who took action to bring this to the legislature's attention and ultimately over the finish line into law. This result represents meaningful collaboration between legislators, staff, healthcare professionals, industry leaders, patients, and advocates.” 

  

“We know that DEHP poses serious health risks, disrupting hormone systems and increasing cancer risk,” said Representative Marjorie C. Decker (D-Cambridge), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Public Health. “This legislation is a vital step in protecting public health by banning the sale and manufacture of IV bags and tubes that contain this toxic chemical. By eliminating DEHP, we commit to safer alternatives, prioritizing the health and well-being of our communities.” 

  

“The Toxic-Free Medical Devices Act was filed because patients should never have to worry that the tools meant to heal them are exposing them to a cancer-linked chemical, especially when safe alternatives already exist in use right here in Massachusetts,” said Senator Joan B. Lovely, lead Senate sponsor of the legislation. “Seeing this advance through the Legislature brings Massachusetts to the brink of leading the nation on exemplary medical care. I want to thank Senate President Spilka and Senate Ways and Means Chair Rodrigues for their leadership, and our colleague Representative James O'Day for his partnership as House sponsor.” 

  

“Massachusetts has always been a leader in health care innovation, and we here in the Commonwealth have a responsibility to continue advancing policies that make care safer for the people who need it most,” said Representative James J. O'Day (D-West Boylston), Fourth Division Chair and lead House sponsor of the legislation. “This legislation reduces unnecessary exposure to DEHP in medical devices while giving hospitals and providers the flexibility needed for a responsible transition to safer alternatives. I’m grateful to Senator Lovely for her partnership, Speaker Mariano for his leadership, and all the advocates, stakeholders, and colleagues who worked together to bring this important public health measure across the finish line.” 

  

Having been passed by the Legislature, the bill has been sent to Governor Maura Healey’s desk for her signature. 

Governor Healey Announces Nearly $2 Million to Expand Employer-Supported Child Care

Governor Healey Announces Nearly $2 Million to Expand Employer-Supported Child Care 

 

Pilot program will help employers expand child care options, support working families and strengthen Massachusetts' workforce 

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today awarded nearly $2 million through the Employer Child Care Innovation Fund (ECCIF) pilot to support partnerships between employers, child care providers and community organizations that will expand access to affordable, reliable child care across Massachusetts. The grants will help working families find the care they need while helping employers recruit and retain the workforce they depend on.  

 

Launched in 2024, the Employer Child Care Innovation Fund encourages employer-led solutions that expand child care capacity, support care during nontraditional work hours and develop new employer-supported child care models. The initiative reflects the Healey-Driscoll Administration's commitment to making Massachusetts more affordable while strengthening the state's workforce and economy. 

 

"Finding affordable, reliable child care shouldn't stand between parents and a good job," said Governor Maura Healey. "These partnerships will help families access the care they need, help businesses recruit and retain talented employees, and make Massachusetts more affordable and competitive." 

 

"Communities and employers know what their workforce needs, and these grants will help them build solutions that work locally," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "We're proud to support partnerships that expand child care options, strengthen our economy and make it easier for families to succeed.” 

 

"Every family deserves access to high-quality, affordable child care," said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. "These projects will help expand opportunities for families, while supporting providers and strengthening the Commonwealth's early education and care system." 

 

This year's grantees represent employers and community partners from across Massachusetts, reflecting a range of industries, business sizes and regional needs. Their projects will expand child care capacity, increase access during nontraditional work hours and pilot employer-supported child care models that can be replicated across the state: 

• Berkshire United Way: $400,000 
• Community Day Care Center of Lawrence, Inc. (dba The Community Group): $550,000 
• Seaport Orthodontics (dba Seaport Smiles): $150,000 
• United Way of North Central MA: $800,000 

The selected projects will pilot employer-supported child care models that reflect the needs of Massachusetts workers and businesses, including expanded infant care, care during nontraditional work hours, employer-funded child care assistance, and new technology to connect families with available care. Together, these projects will serve workers in industries such as health care, human services and hospitality while testing approaches that can be expanded statewide. 

 

"Early education and child care are critical parts of the Massachusetts' economic infrastructure," said Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. "Affordable, reliable child care is essential to a strong workforce, and employers have an important role to play in shaping solutions. This pilot program supports new partnerships that will directly expand access to high-quality child care for working families while helping the Commonwealth and employers identify new approaches to recruiting and retaining the workforce we need." 

 

"Massachusetts' economic competitiveness depends on employers being able to attract and retain talented workers, and access to affordable child care is a critical part of that equation," said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. "These grants will help employers and community partners develop innovative child care solutions that meet local workforce needs, support working families, and strengthen our economy for the long term." 

 

“Expanding access to affordable, quality child care is one of the most important steps we can take to support working families and strengthen our workforce,” said Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones. “By awarding these grants to community partners and a coalition of employers, we are creating new solutions to deliver child care services that will assist working families and, in turn, better position caregivers to participate in the workforce and help businesses attract and retain the talent they need.” 
 

"The Employer Child Care Innovation Fund demonstrates what's possible when the public and private sectors work together to solve workforce challenges," said Alanna Mallon, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Corporation Foundation. "These grants will support innovative partnerships that help working families access reliable child care while strengthening employers' ability to recruit and retain talent. We are proud to partner with the Healey-Driscoll Administration, the Early Education and Child Care Task Force co-chairs and the Department of Early Education and Care to move this investment from vision to implementation and look forward to supporting these projects as they create lasting impact across Massachusetts.” 

 

The Employer Child Care Innovation Fund, administered by Commonwealth Corporation in partnership with the Department of Early Education and Care, is part of the Healey-Driscoll Administration's broader strategy to expand access to affordable, high-quality child care while strengthening the Commonwealth's workforce. The initiative advances the work of the administration's Inter-Agency Early Education and Child Care Task Force and builds on historic investments included in the recently signed the Fiscal Year 2027 state budget, including continued support for the Commonwealth Cares for Children (C3) program, the Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative (CPPI), and $1.2 billion in child care financial assistance to help approximately 72,000 children and their families afford care. 

 

“Access to high-quality, affordable early education and care has long been a priority of mine. It is essential to our children's success, enables parents to participate fully in the workforce, and strengthens our economy. I am encouraged by these innovative partnerships and hopeful that this initiative will move us closer to ensuring every family in the Commonwealth has access to the child care they need to thrive,” said Assistant Majority Leader Alice Peisch.  

 

"I'm pleased to see this program put into action, helping expand access to affordable child care for working families across the Commonwealth." said Representative Ken Gordon, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. "It is an investment in our children, our families, and our businesses." 

 

"Innovative employer-engaged child care solutions have the potential to support the success of Massachusetts families, strengthen our labor force, and bolster our overall economic competitiveness,” said Tom Weber, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Business Coalition for Early Childhood Education. “These locally designed, pioneering child care partnerships will contribute to the creation of a world-class early childhood education system that will help Massachusetts continue to be best-in-class for family well-being and the smart choice for employers seeking top talent." 

 

“The Roundtable has long advocated for high quality early education and child care as a workforce development strategy, an economic development strategy, and an effective investment in children and their families,” said JD Chesloff, President & CEO of the Massachusetts Business Roundtable. “The Employer Child Care Innovation Fund is the exact public-private model we need to encourage partnerships, identify innovative initiatives, and scale them to maximize their benefit statewide. We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration and legislature for their leadership and are encouraged by employer enthusiasm for this program and the promise it holds for future expansion of employer supported child care.” 

 

The administration will recognize this year's recipients at a celebration later this summer. The event will feature a roundtable discussion with grantees, employers, and child care leaders to showcase the innovative partnerships made possible through the program and explore how employer-supported child care can help strengthen Massachusetts' workforce and economy. 

Senate Acts to Bring Oversight to Massachusetts’ Unregulated Home Care Industry Bill

Senate Acts to Bring Oversight to Massachusetts’ Unregulated Home Care Industry Bill creates new licensure structure for home care workers, including background checks and a public list of verified agencies 

(BOSTON—7/16/2026) The Senate passed legislation today to help older adults age in place in Massachusetts by improving the industry that assists elders with basic care like cooking, dressing, and bathing. 

The Senate’s legislation strengthens the integrity of the home care industry and its workers, who provide the daily non-medical care that is key to helping people stay in the comfort of their own homes as they age. 

Massachusetts is currently among a handful of states that do not regulate home care agencies. 

By checking and licensing home care workers, the Senate bill gives peace of mind to families while also ensuring that workers are safe and prepared. 

“Aging in place shouldn't mean rolling the dice on who’s coming into your home,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This legislation brings much-needed oversight to an industry that too many families rely on without knowing who’s really providing that care. Today the Senate is giving older adults and their loved ones the peace of mind they deserve, while also supporting a workforce that deserves recognition for the essential work they do. I applaud Chair Rodrigues for his stewardship of the legislation, and Senator Jehlen for her leadership in getting this bill passed.” 

“Home care is such an important component to our overall system, allowing people to remain in their homes with dignity, and receive the care they need to maintain their daily lives,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “By creating a licensure process, both the caregiver and the client benefit, ensuring the best care for our residents, and increasing the level of integrity for the home care worker. This legislation closes a loophole that will now mandate that these important health care workers be under proper state regulations and oversight. These regulations will go a long way towards giving patients, and their families, a large measure of comfort and peace of mind. I thank Senator Jehlen for her longstanding commitment towards improving the lives of our senior population in the Commonwealth.” 

“Everyone—consumers and workers—will be safer with home care licensure,” said Senator Patricia D. Jehlen (D-Somerville), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Aging and Independence and lead Senate sponsor of the legislation. “If you qualify for state-paid home care, the agency who sends you workers is required to train and supervise them and meet other standards.  But if you’re private pay, you may have to find someone in a hurry.  There are a large and growing number of agencies, many for profit.  They can send care workers who would come into your home and help with grocery shopping and even intimate help with showering.  We don’t even know how many such agencies there are.  And they don’t have to meet any standards.  The bill is supported by home care organizations, SEIU 1199, and consumer groups. Most of us will need long term care at some point, and many of us will find it very hard to afford.  The long term services and supports commission will take the next step toward creating social insurance for long term care, building on the work we commissioned last year which created a set of models we could choose from, with variables such as the required contribution and the amount or duration of benefits.  Establishing social insurance for long term care will make it possible for many more people to age with financial security.” 

Under the bill—S.3170, An Act to improve Massachusetts home care—the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) would create the licensure structure, which would include fingerprinting and background checks. 

A worker’s driving record would also be checked if they provide transportation for their client. 

The legislation also helps connect people in need of care with a properly checked home care service. EOHHS would share a list of verified and licensed agencies on its website. 

Full details of the legislation are available in a fact sheet in the Senate’s press room. 

The Senate Committee on Ways and Means redrafted the bill and voted 13-0 to advance it to the full Senate on July 9, 2026. The legislation was reviewed last year by the Joint Committee on Aging and Independence and a prior version was passed by the House of Representatives. 

The Senate passed the bill and sent it to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

波士頓公校報喜訊. AP學生通過率64%創歷史新高

波士頓市長吳弭（中）和波士頓公校總監Mary Skipper 和學生晤談。（市府圖片）

AP學生圓桌會。(市府圖片）

        （Boston Orange編譯）波士頓公立學校（BPS）7月15日公佈，2026年大學先修課程 （AP）考試結果顯示，24所學校的4,069名學生參加了7,277場考試。其中4,665場獲得3分以上的大學學分資格，通過率達64%，創歷史新高。         全波士頓市9至12年級學生中，有30%至少參加過一次AP考試，參與人數比2022年成長25%，合格成績數更激增65%。         波士頓公校把這成長歸功於學區近年推動「AP全麵開放（AP Access for All）」等計畫，擴大課程開設、強化教師專業發展、提供模擬考試和備考資源，成功降低了學生的參與障礙。 自2022年以來，西語裔學生參與率增加54%，非裔學生增加42%，顯示波士頓公校學區在促進教育公平上的具體成效。         波士頓公校總監瑪麗·斯基珀（Superintendent Mary Skipper）表示，「這些結果證明，當移除障礙並提供適當支持時，學生就能迎接挑戰」。副總監西蒙·萊特博士（Simone Wright）補充，合格率穩步提升，驗證了教學重點與教師支持計畫的方向正確。         BPS在2018至2025年間增加20%的AP課程，受歡迎的新課程有「AP非裔美國人研究（AP African American Studies）」，新學年將推出「AP商業與金融素養（AP Business and Financial Literacy）」，以及「AP網路安全（AP Cybersecurity）」。         大學、職涯與生涯準備辦公室助理總監布雷特·迪肯斯（Brett Dickens）指出，每間AP教室都在為學生開拓未來可能。         今年稍早，波士頓公校系統與波士頓市政府及麻州中小學教育廳在科技波士頓學院（TechBoston Academy）舉辦AP圓桌會議，市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）、教育廳長佩德羅·馬丁內斯（Pedro Martinez）與學生代表共同討論AP課程對大學準備度的影響。2026年成績印證，擴大參與和學生支持措施已轉化為全學區可量化的進步成果

Boston Public Schools Reports Record Growth in Advanced Placement Participation and Student Success

District has increased qualifying AP scores by 65% since 2022, with nearly two-thirds of exams earning college-credit qualifying scores

BOSTON –July 15, 2026 –Boston Public Schools (BPS) reports continued growth in Advanced Placement (AP) participation and student success. The 2026 AP Score Reports released by College Board show gains in access to college-level coursework and strong performance on AP exams.

This year, 4,069 BPS students participated in Advanced Placement coursework and took 7,277 AP exams across 24 district schools. Of those exams, 4,665 earned a qualifying score of 3 or higher, resulting in a 64% districtwide qualifying rate. Today, 30% of all BPS students in grades 9–12 take at least one AP exam.

Since 2022, AP participation has increased by 25%, while the number of qualifying scores has grown by 65%, raising the district’s overall qualifying rate from 50% to 64%. The number of AP exams taken has also increased by 29% over the same period.

“This year’s AP results demonstrate the impact of our commitment to expanding access to rigorous academic opportunities through initiatives like AP Access for All,” said Boston Public Schools Superintendent Mary Skipper. “We are seeing the highest AP participation levels and the highest percentage of students earning qualifying scores in BPS history, showing that when we remove barriers and provide students with the right supports, they rise to meet the challenge. More students than ever are enrolling in college-level coursework, earning college-credit qualifying scores, and building the confidence, skills, and knowledge needed for success beyond high school. I am grateful to our educators, school leaders, students, and families for their continued commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive.”

The district’s continued growth builds on years of strategic investment in expanding AP access through initiatives such as AP Access for ALL, increasing course offerings, strengthening teacher professional development, and providing students with additional academic supports, including mock exams and test preparation resources. These efforts have helped more students enroll in Advanced Placement courses and improve student achievement.

The 2026 results also show expanded access across student groups. Since 2022, AP participation has increased by 54% among Hispanic/Latino students and 42% among Black students, reflecting the district’s commitment to more students engaging in rigorous coursework and earning college credit while still in high school.

“Expanding access is only meaningful if students are equipped to succeed once they enter these courses,” said Deputy Superintendent of Academics Dr. Simone Wright. “The steady increase in qualifying scores shows that our instructional priorities, educator support, and intentional focus on academic excellence are helping students build the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need to thrive in college-level coursework.”

BPS continues to broaden Advanced Placement opportunities across its high schools. Between 2018 and 2025, the district increased AP course offerings by 20%, and students now have access to a growing range of subjects, including AP African American Studies, one of the district’s most popular newer courses. Several schools also plan to introduce AP Business and Financial Literacy and AP Cybersecurity in the coming school year.

“Every AP classroom represents an opportunity for a student to discover what’s possible for their future,” said Assistant Superintendent of the Office of College, Career & Life Readiness Brett Dickens. “Whether students are earning college credit, strengthening their college applications, or developing the critical thinking and perseverance needed after graduation, these experiences prepare them to confidently pursue their next steps. We’re proud that more Boston students than ever are taking advantage of these opportunities.”

Earlier this year, BPS, alongside the City of Boston and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, hosted an Advanced Placement roundtable at TechBoston Academy, where Mayor Michelle Wu, Commissioner Pedro Martinez, Superintendent Mary Skipper, and BPS students discussed the impact of AP coursework on college readiness and personal growth. During the conversation, students reflected on how Advanced Placement courses helped them build critical skills such as resilience, time management, self-confidence, and academic perseverance while encouraging more of their peers to challenge themselves through rigorous coursework. The 2026 AP results demonstrate that these investments in expanding access and supporting student success are translating into measurable outcomes across the district.