江明信代表紅十字會為 2交易所敲鐘 把“台灣”帶到數億人面前

江明信代表美國紅十字會在納斯達克敲鐘。（江明信提供）

             (Boston Orange周菊子綜合報導)同一年內能為紐約證交所（NYSE）和納斯達克（Nasdaq）的開市、收盤先後敲鐘的人，全美屈指可數，“哈囉台灣（Hello Taiwan）”執行長暨美國紅十字會（American Red Cross）慈善理事江明信（Ming Chiang）在2025年12月30日這天，締造記錄，成為華裔第一人。

江明信按下敲鐘按鈕。（江明信提供）

            江明信是以美國紅十字會慈善董事的身份，代表美國紅十字會，先於2025年1月2日在紐約證交所敲鐘開市，再於2025年12月30日和“哈囉台灣“共同創辦人之一的李孟璇（Diana Lee）在納斯達克（Nasdaq）敲響收盤鐘。

江明信和“哈囉台灣“共同創辦人之一的李孟璇（Diana Lee）敲鐘。（江明信提供）

敲鐘儀式通常都有很多人一起上台，共享歡樂時光。（江明信提供）

            對紐約證交所或納斯達克來說，敲開市鐘和收盤鐘都是日常例行儀式。以納斯達克來說，從2000年在時代廣場設立全球行銷中心和媒體總部後，就每天2場，迄今共舉辦了13,000場左右的敲鐘儀式。但是這敲鐘儀式對企業而言，卻意義非凡，通常只有在企業首次公開募股（IPO），舉辦上市週年慶，才有機會登上紐約時代廣場的納斯達克塔樓，舉行敲鐘儀式，並在同步轉播中，出現在全球數億觀眾面前。

            過去這20多年來，由於華人創辦的科技及互聯網公司不但如雨後春筍般冒出，還紛紛上是，敲鐘，迄今登上過納斯達克塔樓敲鐘的華人企業家，包括2005年上市的百度執行長李彥宏，2014年為京東掛牌的劉強東，2018年從上海遠程連線敲鐘的拼多多創辦人黃崢，以及2018年率嗶哩嗶哩（Bilibili）登台的陳睿等人。

敲鐘鏡頭在時代廣場大螢幕上播放。（江明信提供）

            2025年4月「霸王別姬（Chagee）」的創辦人張俊杰也敲了納斯達克的開市鐘，成為中國新一代“茶飲”出海代表。

            在紐約證交所和納斯達克的敲鐘儀式，每年合計僅約1000場，有著為“品牌”背書份量，主要保留給企業上市用，也為例如迄今已有14人的每年農曆春節邀請中國駐紐約總領事敲鐘等，留有一些外交，文化，慈善事業場次。等閒人上不了敲鐘塔台。

            江明信卻以“哈囉台灣（Hello Taiwan）”執行長，以及美國紅十字會（American Red Cross）慈善理事的身份，在2025年的同一年內，先後於初及年末，為紐約證交所和納斯達克敲鐘，讓他不但在華人參與美國主流社會金融儀式的紀錄中，留下獨特一筆，更因為他頂著“哈囉台灣（Hello Taiwan）”執行長的身份，打著一條印有「台灣」字樣的領帶上台敲鐘，讓“台灣”出現在時代廣場，以及全球各地的敲鐘儀式播報大螢幕上，讓他為“台灣”打了一場漂亮公關戰，恢弘落實了“讓台灣被世界看見”這口號。

            作為資歷超過10年的美國紅十字會志工，江明信在敲鐘時表示，無論世界將來面對什麼挑戰，只要社會各界攜手合作，未來就一定更好。

紐英崙婦女新運會歡宴 慶2026新年迎火馬農曆春節

紐英崙婦女新運會部分職員和董事合影。（周菊子攝）

                  (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓報導)紐英崙婦女新運會1月8日晚在波士頓華埠翠苑餐廳舉辦開年宴，頒發社區服務獎，包括該會元老級的梅伍銀寬在內，有將近70人歡聚，慶祝2026新年，迎接即將於2月17日來到的農曆火馬新春。

紐英崙婦女新運會會長李盧蓮馨（前左二起）、張青梅歡迎黃耀良，余麗媖，
波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏，僑教中心主任高家富（左一）等嘉賓出席。（周菊子攝）

                  駐波士頓台北經濟文化辦事處處長廖朝宏，組長黃耀良，波士頓僑教中心主任高家富和紐英崙中華公所職員余寶愛，伍振中，以及波士頓華埠獅子會會長湯偉雄，紐英崙中華總會會長余麗媖，僑聲音樂社社長黃國威，李伍碧香，波士頓台山鄉親聯誼會會長黃紹培，副會長黃偉健，中文書記翁宇才等，這晚有多名僑團首長應邀出席。

                  開場時，紐英崙婦女新運會的2名共會長，李盧蓮馨和張青梅先致詞，再請廖朝宏處長和高家富主任講話。

紐英崙婦女新運會會長李盧蓮馨（左）、張青梅（右）敬酒拜年。（周菊子攝）

                  已退休，仍積極參與社區服務工作，每週至少撥出2天到中華耆英會白禮頓樓當志工的李盧蓮馨，歡迎嘉賓及會員出席，送上新年快樂祝福。

紐英崙婦女新運會會長李盧蓮馨（右一）、張青梅（左一），敦請波士頓經文處
處長廖朝宏（右二）頒發社區服務獎給關美玲（左二）。（周菊子攝）

                  另一名共會長張青梅現為中華耆英會副行政主任，也是紐英崙中華公所新任中文書記。她感謝各界長期支持該會活動，撥冗出席開年宴，聲言該會將在未來一年，舉辦更多健康教育講座，為社區服務。目前預定四、五月時會和紐英崙中華公所、波士頓華埠獅子會合辦講座，期盼再次締造去年有百餘人出席聆聽的盛況。

嘉賓致詞時，廖朝宏處長以農曆新年將至，送上「龍馬精神」的祝福。高家富主任則以廣東話祝福眾人身體健康，萬事勝意。

紐英崙婦女新運會會長李盧蓮馨（左起）、張青梅，廖朝宏，黃耀良，高家富，
余麗媖，湯偉雄，翁宇才，余寶愛等人同桌暢敘。（周菊子攝）

                  席間，張青梅敦請廖朝宏處長頒發社區服務獎給會員關美玲，表揚她長期參與波士頓華埠治安巡邏隊，維護地方安全。

                  抽獎環節由該會中文書記林黎輝、張惠文主持，共有22個大獎，包括2張個50元，以及5張各20元的現金獎，波士頓僑教中心，波士頓經文處和梅伍銀寬各送出一份的神秘禮物，麗碧華美容院的2張價值各58元護膚禮券，雙喜燒臘餐廳禮券等。

紐英崙婦女新運會會長李盧蓮馨（右）謝謝梅伍銀寬送出禮物。（周菊子攝）

                  紐英崙婦女新運會成立於民國29年，也是西元1940年。當年由於蔣宋美齡的加持，成立之初，盛極一時。85年後，時移勢易，如今有會員50餘人，董事13人，其中僅梅伍銀寬，鄧陳秋華，尤錦萍，李曹秀萍，伍劉小雲等人為早年成員，其餘的張青梅，李盧蓮馨，張瀠今，林黎輝，阮愛玲，翁郭若碧，崔健豪，何洋等人都為後輩新進。

紐英崙婦女新運會在翠苑暢聚。（周菊子攝）

                紐英崙婦女新運會現任幹部包括，共主席張青梅，李盧蓮馨，中文書記林黎輝和Helen Zhang, 英文書記兩名張瀠今和Anita Wing, 財政梅伍銀寬和崔健豪，核數鄧秋華，陳錦萍，娛樂伍劉小芸，福利關美玲。（更新版）

紐英崙婦女新運會現在有許多年輕會員。（周菊子攝）

陳綺怡（右）和余麗媖都在很早以前就加入紐英崙婦女新運會。（周菊子攝）

紐英崙婦女新運會席開六、七桌，（周菊子攝）

會員、會友同坐一桌。（周菊子攝）

這是資深會員桌。（周菊子攝）

紐英崙婦女新運會中文書記林黎輝（左二）和曾經的同事，婦女會會員合影。
（周菊子攝）

川普政府取消聯邦醫保補助 麻州長增撥2.5億美元助居民度過保費大漲難關

麻州州長Maura Healey強調州政府極力保護人民。（周菊子攝）

       （Boston Orange周菊子波士頓綜合報導）麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）1月8日宣佈，州政府將從「聯邦醫療信託基金（Commonwealth Care Trust Fund）」增撥2.5億美元，總計用6億美元來支持「麻州醫療連繫者（Massachusetts Health Connector）」為大約27萬年收入在聯邦貧窮線400%以下者，維持保費不變或微漲。

麻州州長Maura Healey邀多名政要出席，以強調醫療健保費率大漲事件中大。（周菊子攝）

            奚莉州長在副州長Kim Driscoll，麻州參議會議長Karen Spika，以及麻州醫療聯繫者行政主任Audry Morse Gasteier等人陪伴中，召開記者會，稱這是對抗川普政府終止「聯邦加強型保費稅收抵免優惠（EPTC）」的全美最強有力行動。

麻州參議會議長Karen Spika笑說他們這天出席，有著同一聲音，如果華府
也這樣，該有多好。（周菊子攝）

            麻州醫療聯繫者行政主任Audry Morse Gasteier說明，麻州共有大約33.7萬人受到這醫保補助終止的影響，保費大漲，其中約有一萬人已經因為無力繳納保費，主動放棄醫療保險。

            奚莉州長抨擊川普政府的做法不人道，不負責人，麻州能夠做的有限，但在參眾議會合作下，麻州政府已安排從「聯邦醫療信託基金（Commonwealth Care Trust Fund）」增撥2.5億美元，為期一年的來保護受影響的大部分人。

麻州醫療聯繫者行政主任Audry Morse Gasteier說明聯邦政府刪減補助後，
麻州已有1萬人主動放棄醫療保險。（周菊子攝）

            在「可負擔醫療保險法（ACA)」的「聯邦加強型保費稅收抵免優惠（EPTC）」辦法下，麻州以往每年得到大約6.5億美元的聯邦政府補助，加上州政府為確保居民都得到醫療保險編列的大約3億美元，讓麻州得以成為全美醫保覆蓋率最高的州，將近97%的居民享有醫保。如今聯邦政府撤銷補助，就算麻州政府增撥2.5億元，仍不足以彌補損失的聯邦補助數額。在麻州政府選擇保護最大多數人的情況下，目前有大約6.4萬人面對斷保，以及保費非常難以負擔情況。

            Audry Morse Gasteier說明，大約有27萬年收入在聯邦貧窮線400%以下，也就是個人$62,600，或4口之家$128,600，經由該機構購買醫療保險的麻州居民，在麻州政府撥款資助後，繳交的保費將維持不變，或微幅上漲。

            例如一對約45歲，有2名小孩的秋河鎮（Fall River）夫婦，年收入$75,000，每月支付約$166元保費。川普總統的新政策從今年1月1日開始實施後，他們的同樣醫療保險計劃，保費將上漲成每月$452元。然而現在由於麻州州長奚莉的動用2.5億元「麻州醫療信託基金」來填補麻州失去的聯邦醫療補助款，這對夫婦的保費將僅漲至每月$206元。

            川普政府在2025年7月簽署OBBBA（一大美麗）法案，不再延長「可負擔醫療保險法（ACA）」中「聯邦加強型保費稅收抵免優惠（EPTC）」後，全美大約2200萬仰賴這優惠以獲取可負擔醫療保險的居民，面對保費大漲窘境，間接引發美國歷史上最長，高達43天的聯邦政府停擺期。民主黨雖然試圖重啟補助，但最終預算案未包括醫療健保補助。

            2025年12月下旬，許多麻州居民收到數額翻倍的醫療健保帳單時大為震驚。麻州醫療聯繫者行政主任Audry Morse Gasteier透露，麻州共有約10,000人因為保費高漲額度之高，讓人無法負擔而主動棄保的，

            在聯邦政府的「聯邦加強型保費稅收抵免優惠（EPTC）」於2025年12月31日正式終止後，麻州約有33萬7千人面對漲了價的醫療保費帳單。其中年收入在聯邦貧窮線400%以下約27萬人，由於麻州政府已經介入，給予補助，每月保費帳單只漲了大約$20到$60。

家庭年收入在聯邦貧窮線400%到500%之間的大約2萬7千人，因為直接失去聯邦政府補助，又不在州政府的補助範圍之內，醫療健保費直接翻倍，每月約需多繳$400到$800元。

另外一批家庭年收入在聯邦平窮線100%以下（約1萬5000元），又因為聯邦政府政策改變，失去領取保費稅務抵免額預付款（APTC）的大約3萬多人，更是收到必須繳交全額保費，或就此斷保的通知。

            在麻州，以及其他各州面對類似狀況的美國民眾，對醫療健保費用的巨幅帳額大漲憤怒，紛紛向聯邦及州議員們施壓。聯邦政府傳出17名共和黨眾議員倒戈，通過了延長補助3年提案，正送交聯邦參議院討論。

            奚莉州長說明，麻州醫療聯繫者從2月1日起生效的新年度醫療保險計劃，1月23日截止登記。民眾可上麻州醫療聯繫者網站註冊(mahealthconnector.org/navigators)，或於週一至週五的早上8點至6點，撥打客戶服務電話1-877-MA-ENROLL。

Governor Healey Details Strongest Plan in the Country to Protect Against President Trump’s ACA Cost Hikes 

Massachusetts investing $600 million – the most in the country – to limit health care premium increases after President Trump and Congressional Republicans refused to extend ACA credits
 

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today detailed the strongest plan in the country to protect Massachusetts residents from health care cost increases after President Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans refused to extend Federal Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (EPTC) under the Affordable Care Act. 22 million Americans, including hundreds of thousands of Massachusetts residents who get their health insurance through the Massachusetts Health Connector, have relied on these credits to afford their health insurance.  

“Massachusetts families cannot afford President Trump's drastic increases to their health insurance premiums. While President Trump continues to increase health care costs, we are taking the strongest action in the nation to address them and keep costs as low as possible for families,” said Governor Healey. “Despite this increased state investment, far too many people will still see their premiums increase because of the White House. President Trump and Congressional Republicans need to do their jobs and extend these federal credits so that people can afford the health insurance that they need. While Washington raises costs, we are working hard to lower them – it's why we capped health care deductibles and co-pays for the first time, as well as the cost of insulin and inhalers. We will continue to do all we can to make health care more affordable in this state.” 

“Thanks to Governor Healey’s continued commitment to our flagship ConnectorCare program, we’re fortunate to be able to continue to provide Massachusetts residents affordable premiums with low cost sharing through the Health Connector, even as the federal government has failed to extend the enhanced Premium Tax Credits,” said Health Connector Executive Director Audrey Morse Gasteier. “This continued commitment means hundreds of thousands of Massachusetts residents can continue to afford coverage that’s there for them when they need it, keeping them healthy and financially secure. This commitment reinforces Massachusetts’s standing as the state with the most significant investment in affordable coverage through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace.” 

To limit the impact of these increases on middle class Massachusetts families, the state will increase investment in the ConnectorCare program by $250 million, for a total of $600 million. This is the largest state investment in the country and will mean that approximately 270,000 customers enrolled in ConnectorCare and making below 400 percent of the federal poverty level ($62,600 for an individual or $128,600 for a family of four) will see little to no premium increases because of the expiring federal credits, while also lowering other out-of-pocket costs like co-pays and deductibles. The funding comes from the Commonwealth Care Trust Fund. 

For example, a 45-year-old couple with two kids making $75,000 in Fall River previously paid $166 per month for the lowest cost coverage. Because of President Trump, this year they would have had to pay more than double for the same plan – $452 per month. However, because of Governor Healey’s investment, they will pay $206 per month, saving them nearly $3,000 over the year. 

"Massachusetts is a leader in expanding access to healthcare for all residents because we believe that the role of government is to help make life more manageable and more affordable for our residents,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “While the Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans have lost sight of that principle, Massachusetts has remained steadfast in our commitment to the people we serve. That’s why I’m proud of the partnership this announcement represents—and proud that in Massachusetts, we always have our residents’ backs.” 

“The ACA tax credits made it possible for millions of Americans, including thousands of residents in Massachusetts, to afford health insurance,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “By ending these vital tax credits, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are making it abundantly clear that they don’t care if millions of vulnerable Americans lose coverage. That’s why Massachusetts is once again stepping up to protect our residents. I want to thank the Healey-Driscoll Administration for taking action to ensure that every Massachusetts resident will continue to have access to quality, affordable health care.” 

“Thank you, Governor Healey, for your leadership to protect health insurance coverage. The Commonwealth does not watch when harm is being done, we act,” said Representative John Lawn (D-Watertown), House Chair of Joint Committee on Health Care Financing. “As the federal government shirks their responsibilities, we are stepping up to lower costs, protect access to care, and ensure that no resident is forced to choose between their health care or their basic needs.” 

Additionally, a single 39-year-old making $40,000 in Holyoke previously paid $131 per month for the lowest cost coverage. They would have had to pay $286 per month for the same plan this year because of President Trump, but instead they will pay $152 per month because of Governor Healey’s investment, saving them $1,600 over the year. 

Governor Healey has directed the Health Connector to sustain this increased investment, while also exploring whether there are other populations that can be brought into the reach of ConnectorCare’s help to lower health care costs for more people. Also, at the direction of Governor Healey, the Health Connector and MassHealth have been leading efforts to explore additional ways to prevent health coverage losses in Massachusetts despite the cuts and rollbacks on health care coming from D.C. 

Governor Healey is also reminding Massachusetts residents that they can still sign up for health insurance coverage or switch their plan through the Health Connector until January 23 for coverage starting on February 1. The Health Connector’s new web portal makes it easier for residents to access cost information about health coverage options. It features a ‘Get an Estimate’ tool that makes it easy for people to see what plans and premiums may be available to them. The tool is anonymous, takes just a few minutes to complete and gives users a fast snapshot of available options, while providing flexibility to adjust information and see other potential results.  

People who need help finding their most affordable coverage option can find free, in-person assistance from a Navigator by searching for local help on the Health Connector website (mahealthconnector.org/navigators), and can also call Health Connector Customer Service at 1-877-MA-ENROLL Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

Governor Healey has taken a number of steps to make health care more affordable in Massachusetts, including becoming the first Governor to cap co-pays and deductibles, and she signed legislation capping prescription drug costs, including for insulin, at $25.

MBTA Wins $2.23 Million Federal Grant to Improve Road, Bus Safety

MBTA Wins $2.23 Million Federal Grant to Improve Road, Bus Safety   

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration is today celebrating that the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has been awarded $2,234,325 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fiscal Year 2025 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program to advance bus safety across the region. The SS4A program is a nationwide initiative focused on reducing serious injuries and fatalities on roadways by supporting locally driven safety solutions. The funding will support the Mobileye Shield+ Collision Avoidance Demonstration Project, enabling the MBTA to deploy advanced collision-avoidance technology on up to 160 buses.   

“Phil Eng and his team have made important progress to enhance safety on our roads and across public transit, and this federal award will help them take that to the next level,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Everyone in Massachusetts will benefit from this new technology to help avoid crashes and keep people safe in communities across our state. Congratulations to our MassDOT and MBTA teams for securing this award, and I’m grateful for the continued strong advocacy from our Congressional delegation.” 

“Safety will always be our top priority and under the leadership of the Healey-Driscoll we are committed to deliver a transportation network that best serves the public,” said Interim Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phil Eng. “Buses are a huge part of our system as they carry over 40% of our riders. I want to thank our federal partners at the U.S. Department of Transportation and our Congressional delegation for this award that further enhances the safety of our passengers, workforce, pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and the communities that we pass through. It's a win for everyone as we continue to deliver even more frequent services that makes transit the preferred choice of travel.”    

This investment represents the MBTA’s second consecutive selection under the SS4A program. In Fiscal Year 2024, the MBTA received $2,155,020 to retrofit fixed-route buses with similar collision avoidance technology. Building on the initial FY24 allocation, this second phase expands the technology footprint while Phase I continues through the final stages of procurement and installation. This consecutive selection reflects sustained federal confidence in the MBTA’s safety strategy and its ability to implement data-driven, scalable solutions aligned with national roadway safety goals.   

The buses equipped with this technology operate in dense urban environments making these improvements even more important. This initiative tests and evaluates the Mobileye Shield+ technology in real-world operations at the Albany Street and Lynn bus garages before considering a broader, system-wide rollout. The Mobileye Shield+ system provides real-time visual and audible alerts, explicitly designed for large vehicles with blind spots. The system uses backup cameras or sensors to help operators monitor all aspects of the buses’ movement. The initiative’s performance will directly inform future updates to the Boston Region MPO Action Plan, ensuring a margin for safety at every turn.   

“Securing a second consecutive award under the SS4A program is a testament to the rigorous, data-driven approach our team brings to federal grant applications,” said Lynsey Heffernan, Chief of Policy and Strategic Planning at the MBTA. “Each dollar counts, and this is about using every tool in our policy toolkit to ensure that as our bus network grows, it becomes fundamentally safer for the communities we serve.”  

“This work reflects the importance of aligning regional planning with on-the-ground safety improvements,” said Tegin Teich, Executive Director of the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). “The Boston Region MPO’s Safety Action Plan helps communities advance projects and policies that make travel safer and more equitable, and initiatives like this strengthen safety outcomes for people across the region.” 

The MBTA’s bus network is the foundation of transit service across the region, operating 170 routes in 44 cities and towns and providing critical connections to subway, commuter rail, light rail, and ferry services. On an average weekday, MBTA buses carry more than 300,000 passengers, accounting for approximately 30 percent of all MBTA trips, and operate closest to street-level activity where interactions with pedestrians and cyclists are most frequent.    

The MBTA’s award was selected through a competitive, multi-agency federal review process involving transportation safety experts. 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $13 Million to Support State University Degree Completion

 Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $13 Million to Support State University Degree Completion 

The funds are estimated to have an immediate impact on over 16,000 students 

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded $13 million across Massachusetts’ nine state universities to support student degree completion services. Funds will be used to support supplemental tutoring for students at-risk of not completing their degrees and pay for case workers to connect high need students with social service providers and programs. Grant funds also will be used to help students and families with college-going costs beyond tuition and fees, such as those related to transportation, child care, and food needs. 

During the Healey-Driscoll administration, Massachusetts has grown higher education enrollment back to pre-pandemic levels with a doubled investment in state financial aid programs. New success awards are designed to help enrolled students complete their credential programs so they can receive the full benefits of higher education. Recent state data on post-college earnings shows that students with degrees from Massachusetts’ public colleges and universities earn approximately $20,000 to $30,000 a year more five years after graduation than those whose education ended at high school.  

“We’re proud to have doubled state financial aid in Massachusetts to make it more affordable for students to attend college, and we’re also investing in the supports that students need to succeed in school and finish their degrees,” said Governor Maura Healey. “The return on investment is clear – graduates of state universities are more likely to stay in Massachusetts, join our workforce and contribute to our economy and our communities. That’s why we’re investing in their success.” 

“We don’t want obstacles like a flat tire or child care needs to derail talented, driven students from succeeding on our college campuses,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “These grants help students navigate challenges that too often get in the way of completing a degree.”  

The State University SUCCESS program (SU SUCCESS) supports targeted areas of need identified by the institutions, while aligning the program with a case management approach to student advising that has been successful nationally. This approach has notably been followed by the highly regarded City University of New York ASAP (CUNY ASAP) and State University of New York ACE (SUNY ACE) programs that have doubled degree completion rates according to independent studies.  

State universities have shared that they will use the funds for support services like those associated with student mental health, academic persistence, financial literacy, career counseling, transportation and emergency grant aid, success coaches, housing support, and credit recovery needs as well as adjusting advisor caseloads to the recommended maximum of 150 students per advisor.  

With the new awards, each Massachusetts state university will make use of predictive analytics to identify students at-risk of not completing their degrees. Through a partnership with the State University Council of Presidents, the National Institute for Student Success (NISS) at Georgia State University will work with eight of the nine state universities to partner in developing student need assessments.  

“Breaking barriers to higher education equity means being intentional about meeting the needs of all students when they arrive on our campuses, including first-generation college students who are blazing paths to college in their families,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “This year’s approach to SU SUCCESS incorporates evidence-based practices that are working nationally, combined with state research analysis to understand what is working well on campuses and areas for improvement. Together, this will help us grow academic persistence and completion through comprehensive, high-quality support services.”   

“I’m grateful to Governor Healey and the Legislature for continuing to support college affordability and student success,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “Massachusetts’ doubling of state financial aid has grown enrollment, and programs like SU SUCCESS are crucial to making sure students are completing their credentials. Our state universities have been exceptional partners in launching a success program for their segment that uses national best practices while tailoring approaches to institutions’ unique needs.” 

The SU SUCCESS program was funded through the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget. In addition to grants to campuses, funding will support SU SUCCESS’s system-wide program implementation and evaluation activities. Combined with the Community College SUCCESS program, the FY26 budget included $28 million for student success programming overall.   

“Higher education boosts wages and improves quality of life for Massachusetts residents,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Few investments are more important than those that help improve access to affordable and quality education, which is why I am proud that the Senate was able to deliver these resources. I applaud the Governor and her team for swiftly getting this funding to the students who need and deserve it.” 

"SUCCESS funding is about turning access into achievement by giving students the support that they need to stay on track and graduate," said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). "The House first advanced this program because we know that success in college doesn't happen in isolation. By providing wraparound services at our state universities for meaningful academic support, we are helping students build the futures that they deserve." 

“Higher education empowers residents to build careers, strengthen their families, and boost our economy,” said Dr. Linda Thompson, Chair of the Massachusetts State Universities Council of Presidents, and President of Westfield State University. “In our complex and evolving world, targeted support for students helps them focus on their studies and complete their degrees, contributing to the overall betterment of society. SUCCESS funds provide our universities with the resources needed to deliver smarter support and better serve our campus communities. We have seen how investing in higher education creates a foundation for a better future, and we are confident these critical investments will boost graduation rates, leading to a stronger Commonwealth for generations to come.”  

FY26 State University SUCCESS Grant Awards 

Grant awards per institution were determined by using a formula that accounted for overall enrollment and Pell Grant-eligible student enrollment.  

• Bridgewater State University: $2,895,954  

• Fitchburg State University: $1,297,587  

• Framingham State University: $1,315,502  

• Massachusetts College of Art and Design: $890,286  

• Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts: $684,096  

• Massachusetts Maritime Academy: $713,536  

• Salem State University: $2,050,053  

• Westfield State University: $1,532,755  

• Worcester State University: $1,620,191 

Massachusetts Senate Schedules Debate on Local Tax Relief Bills

 Massachusetts Senate Schedules Debate on Local Tax Relief Bills 

Senate Ways and Means Committee also advances campaign finance transparency initiative and measure to honor fallen law enforcement officers 

 

(BOSTON—01/08/2026) The Massachusetts Senate’s Committee on Ways and Means voted today to advance a bipartisan suite of four tax relief measures together with a bill to shine transparency on the financial backing of ballot question campaigns. The committee also advanced legislation to create a memorial license plate for families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. 

 

The tax relief bills would give additional and enhanced options to local communities to ease the property tax burdens felt by lower- and middle-income homeowners, seniors on fixed incomes, and other vulnerable populations. 

 

“The Senate is hitting the ground running this January to support vulnerable taxpayers with strong affordability measures,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This package of legislation puts more tools into the toolboxes of municipalities across the state to give a break to the taxpayers most in need.” 

 

“These local options have real impact on increasing affordability for everyday Bay Staters,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “I am proud that the Senate is prioritizing these common-sense measures in our first major act of the new year, particularly as the cost of living, home values, and household expenses continue to skyrocket.” 

 

During its session this afternoon, the Senate voted to schedule all six bills for floor debate on Thursday, January 15 and to give Senators until 3:30 P.M. on Monday, January 12 to propose amendments for debate. 

 

An Act to prevent property tax bill shocks, S.2899, gives cities and towns the ability to shield their most vulnerable taxpayers from the shock of an extraordinarily high tax bill in a year when the community’s residential property tax levy is rising by more than 10 per cent. The legislation was filed by Senator William N. Brownsberger (D-Belmont) and is cosponsored by Senator Nick Collins (D-South Boston) and Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester). The Senate Committee on Ways and Means solicited written testimony on the bill from December 11 to December 29, 2025. 

 

An Act relative to municipal tax relief, S.2900, allows cities and towns to provide enhanced relief in the form of a rebate to lower- and middle-income taxpayers who already receive the residential tax exemption. The legislation was filed by Senator Nick Collins (D-South Boston) and cosponsored by Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester). The Senate Committee on Ways and Means sought written testimony from December 11 to December 29, 2025. 

 

An Act relative to senior property tax deferral, S.2901, expands eligibility for the Senior Tax Deferral program to keep more money in seniors’ pockets at a time when property values and tax bills are steadily climbing. The bill was reported out of the Joint Committee on Revenue on a 5-0 vote on November 7, 2025, based on legislation originally filed by Senator Patricia D. Jehlen (D-Somerville) and the late Senator Edward J. Kennedy (D-Lowell). The underlying legislation was subject to public hearings scheduled for April 8 and June 16, 2025. 

 

An Act authorizing the establishment of a mean tested senior citizen property tax exemption, S.2902, makes it easier for municipalities to offer local property tax exemptions to seniors on a fixed budget, building on the success of the recently-increased Senior Circuit Breaker. Originally filed by Senator Jason M. Lewis (D-Winchester), the legislation was cosponsored by Senator Barry R. Finegold (D-Andover). It was advanced by a 5-0 vote of the Joint Committee on Revenue on November 7, 2025, following a public hearing scheduled for June 16, 2025. 

 

An Act improving campaign finance reporting by state ballot question committees, S.2898, gives the public access to transparent data about the individuals and entities that are financially backing ballot question campaigns. By closing a current eight-month gap in financial reporting requirements, the bill holds ballot question campaign committees to the same standard of public disclosure met by candidates for office. Filed by Senator Sal N. DiDomenico (D-Everett), the legislation has been cosponsored by members of both parties in both chambers of the Legislature. After soliciting public input at a hearing on October 21, 2025, the Joint Committee on Election Laws advanced the bill on a 5-0 vote on November 12, 2025. 

 

An Act honoring Blue Star Families, S.2903, recognizes law enforcement officers across Massachusetts who have made the ultimate sacrifice by creating a special Blue Star Family license plate available to their surviving parents, spouses, and children. The measure was included in legislation filed by Senator Paul W. Mark (D-Becket). The Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security held a public hearing on May 7, 2025, then advanced the bill on a 6-0 vote on December 3, 2025. 

 

All votes taken by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means are publicly posted on the Legislature’s website. 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $3.6 Million to Support Higher Education Students with Disabilities

 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $3.6 Million to Support Higher Education Students with Disabilities    BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today that they have awarded $3.6 million across Massachusetts’ public colleges and universities to support students with disabilities participating in Massachusetts Inclusive Postsecondary Education (MAIPSE) programs. MAIPSE enables certain students with severe disabilities to take part in undergraduate academic courses, extracurricular activities, internships, work experiences, and on- campus student life activities. This includes students with intellectual disabilities, severe autism spectrum disorder, and severe developmental disabilities.      Bunker Hill Community College, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Mount Wachusett Community College, and the University of Massachusetts – Lowell are all receiving planning grants to develop MAIPSE programs on their campuses.     “We’re lifting barriers for students across our public higher education system,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These grants open doors to the college experience for students with disabilities, so that they can grow their knowledge, skills, and workforce readiness through engagement in classes and campus life.”     “Our entire state benefits when higher education opportunities are as inclusive as possible,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “I’m proud that Massachusetts has prioritized giving students with disabilities access to the many benefits of higher education.”     In April, the Board of Higher Education unanimously approved the administration’s proposed regulations that established the MAIPSE program. These regulations stem from the state’s fiscal year 2023 budget that required all Massachusetts public undergraduate colleges and universities to be prepared to offer opportunities for those students 18 and over with severe disabilities who are otherwise not able to achieve the underlying requirements needed to secure a high school diploma. Under the 2023 law and these implementing regulations, such students can participate in courses as non-matriculating students with their nondisabled peers and engage in other aspects of campus life. Prior to 2022, these opportunities were limited to students ages 18-22.      “Students, regardless of ability, deserve opportunities to engage in the critical thinking and skill development that comes from going to college,” said Secretary of Higher Education Patrick Tutwiler. “These grants will grow and strengthen inclusive enrollment programs that are crucial to higher education equity.”     “I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for supporting inclusive enrollment, and to our colleges and universities for prioritizing serving all students well,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “These grants build on momentum after the state adopted strong and well-informed regulations to guide MAIPSE programs, and we’re heading in the right direction on having a public higher education system that is accessible to all.”   “This funding continues to increase opportunities for people living with disabilities to access higher education, community inclusion and other critical skills to achieve their maximum potential and have meaningful connections and contributions to their communities,” said Commissioner of the Department of Developmental Services Sarah Peterson. “This is another example of the Healey-Driscoll Administration helping make Massachusetts a leader in higher education for all students, and we thank Higher Education for their partnership and commitment to this vital program.”    The continued grant funding issued to 16 public college and universities continues operations for those with existing MAIPSE programs. The planning and implementation grants assist campuses that are in the process of building or expanding MAIPSE programs.    “Massachusetts succeeds when residents living with disabilities are empowered to live life on their own terms,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “The Legislature's investment in the MAIPSE program at Framingham State University advances that principle for residents across MetroWest, as it does for each community and institution that receives these resources. I applaud the Healey-Driscoll Administration for making this program a priority and for expeditiously distributing these funds.”    "I’m proud of the House’s longstanding commitment to this program, which ensures that all students have access to higher education opportunities,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “Expanding inclusive access to college enables students to grow, contribute, and succeed. I want to thank the Healey-Driscoll Administration for awarding this critical funding.”    “True inclusivity and accessibility in higher education means ensuring that all students have meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive on our public campuses,” said Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education. “I am grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for its continued investment in Massachusetts Inclusive Postsecondary Education (MAIPSE) programs across the Commonwealth. I am especially glad that Greenfield Community College and UMass Amherst will be receiving grant awards, and I look forward to seeing how this funding expands access and strengthens inclusive pathways to higher education in our region.”    “Every student deserves the opportunity to experience the richness of campus life,” said Representative Dave Rogers (D-Cambridge), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education. “The MAIPSE program reflects the House’s ongoing commitment to academic inclusion.”    "Chapter 126 of the Acts of 2022 of the Massachusetts General Law enshrines that students with intellectual disabilities and/or autism be given the opportunity to attend public colleges and universities. This groundbreaking law made us the first state in the country to offer such an opportunity," said Representative Sean Garballey (D-Arlington). "I am grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration, the Department of Higher Education, and my colleagues in the Legislature, especially Chairs Michlewitz and Rodrigues, for investing this critical funding to support students across the Commonwealth.”    Dr. Linda Thompson, Chair of the Massachusetts State Universities Council of Presidents, and President of Westfield State University, said: “Public higher education has a responsibility to ensure meaningful access for all members of the Commonwealth. The MAIPSE program removes longstanding barriers for students with intellectual disabilities, empowering them to develop academic, employment, and life skills that lead to greater independence and a higher quality of life. We are proud to work with local school districts to continue this inclusive program on our campus, and we are grateful for the continued investment from the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education to sustain and grow opportunities that make higher education truly accessible for all residents.”      President William Heineman, North Shore Community College & Chair, Community College Council of Presidents, said: “The Massachusetts Community Colleges are committed to providing open access education for all and the MAIPSE program helps us fulfill that commitment. These new grants, along with the continuation of existing grants on many of our campuses, will help our schools create inclusive learning environments where all students can participate fully in campus life, develop valuable skills, and gain real-world work experience to prepare them for the future. We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their continued investments in our students.”    FY26 Planning and Implementation Grants  Greenfield Community College: $148,860  Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts: $103,235  UMass Lowell: $150,207  Bunker Hill Community College: $160,000  Massachusetts Maritime Academy: $111,468  Mount Wachusett Community College: $132,335    FY26 Continuation Grants  Bridgewater State University – Day: $137,610  Bridgewater State University – Residence Life: $239,251  Bristol Community College: $187,050  Cape Cod Community College: $185,800  Fitchburg State University: $225,019  Framingham State University: $159,945  Holyoke Community College: $76,740  Massachusetts College of Art & Design: $128,343  Massasoit Community College: $157,949  Middlesex Community College: $148,312  Northern Essex Community College: $180,000  Quinsigamond Community College: $148,993  Salem State University – Day: $159,974  Salem State University – Residence Life: $186,313  UMass Amherst: $180,000  UMass Boston: $176,032  Westfield State University: $266,579  Worcester State University: $160,000