Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $2 Million to Berkshire Innovation Center for Advanced Optics Lab

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $2 Million to Berkshire Innovation Center for Advanced Optics Lab 

PITTSFIELD – Governor Maura Healey announced today a $2 million award to the Berkshire Innovation Center (BIC) to support the Advanced Manufacturing for Advanced Optics (AMAO) Lab in Pittsfield, helping establish Western Massachusetts as a national leader in optical manufacturing and strengthening the region's innovation economy. 

The award, provided through the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, builds on the previously announced $5 million award to the BIC through the Massachusetts TechHubs Program. Together, the investments will support the expansion of the Berkshire Innovation Center through the acquisition of an adjacent facility, creating additional space for advanced manufacturing, workforce training and industry collaboration. 

"Massachusetts has long been a global leader in innovation, and we're making sure the next generation of advanced manufacturing happens here," said Governor Maura Healey. "The Berkshire Innovation Center is bringing together industry, research and workforce partners to strengthen a critical technology sector, create good jobs and help Western Massachusetts continue leading the way." 

"The Berkshires have a strong reputation for advanced manufacturing, and we're continuing to invest in the people, partnerships and infrastructure that will fuel the region's future," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "This project will help companies innovate, grow and compete while creating new opportunities for workers and communities across Western Massachusetts." 

"Massachusetts' continued global leadership in innovation relies on our willingness to invest today. Supporting these innovations and strengthening our manufacturing economy have long been priorities of the Senate, and today's investment reflects our continued commitment," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "We are creating new opportunities for communities, workers, and businesses, reinforcing the Commonwealth's position as a global leader today, and positioning ourselves to lead in the industries of tomorrow. I applaud Governor Healey for her prioritization of these crucial investments." 

"Innovation happens where talented people, cutting-edge companies and strong partnerships come together," said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. "The Advanced Manufacturing for Advanced Optics Lab builds on the Berkshires' unique strengths and reinforces Massachusetts' position as a leader in next-generation manufacturing and technology." 

“I appreciate the support of the Healey-Driscoll Administration, Senator Mark, Representative Farley-Bouvier and the Pittsfield City Council for their investments in this economic development project that will expand the Berkshire Innovation Center and create a meta-optics manufacturing facility,” said Pittsfield Mayor Peter Marchetti. “The combination of state and local resources for the TechHub will create more job opportunities, support entrepreneurs who want to grow their businesses and serve as a catalyst for future development at Site 9.” 

“Today’s funding announcement is the outcome of multiple years of hard work and builds upon recent investments in the Berkshire Innovation Center,” said Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier (D-Pittsfield). “With this funding, we are able to elevate the Berkshires as industry leaders in advanced manufacturing and improve the economic health of the region.  I have immense gratitude for the Healey-Driscoll Administration for recognizing the potential in the BIC and acting upon it. And I have faith that the BIC partners will see this through.”  

“The Berkshires are well-positioned to lead the next generation of advanced manufacturing, and this investment helps make that possible,” said Senator Paul Mark (D-Berkshires). “It’s another strong example of what can be accomplished when the Legislature, the Healey-Driscoll Administration, and our local partners work together to create jobs, support local industry, and grow our regional economy.” 

"This investment reflects what is possible when state and local government, industry, higher education, and nonprofit partners work together around a shared vision,” said Ben Sosne, Executive Director, Berkshire Innovation Center. “The Healey-Driscoll Administration continues to implement a coordinated, strategic economic development plan that is creating opportunity in every corner of the Commonwealth while positioning Massachusetts for long-term growth in the industries that will define our economy for decades to come. We are proud that the Berkshire Innovation Center and the Berkshires are helping advance that vision, and we are grateful to Governor Healey, Mayor Marchetti, Senator Mark, Representative Farley-Bouvier, our partners at the MassTech Collaborative, and the many industry leaders whose collaboration and commitment made this project possible. This is what strategic investment and strong partnerships can achieve.” 

The BIC’s Advanced Manufacturing for Advanced Optics Lab in Pittsfield is anchored by high-growth companies Myrias Optics Inc. and Electro Magnetic Applications and designed to accelerate the development and manufacturing of advanced optical components while strengthening Western Massachusetts' position in the growing optics and photonics industry. 

The award builds on a partnership between the state, the City of Pittsfield and regional organizations to strengthen the Berkshires' advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Together, the partners have committed $11.6 million to establish the Advanced Manufacturing for Advanced Optics Lab and expand the Berkshire Innovation Center's capabilities.

波士頓榮光會紀念七七抗戰。 強調日本向中華民國投降是歷史事實

波士頓榮光會合影。（周菊子攝）

  （Boston Orange周菊子波士頓報導）波士頓榮光會日前在華埠Hudson街國民黨會址舉辦115年度會員大會，紀念七七抗日戰爭，強調戰爭起因是日本侵略，日本的投降對象是中華民國的歷史事實。會中並討論遊行是否邀請非會員參加，為前監事長池元真6月20日辭世默哀。

波士頓榮光會理事長鄭增壽主持七七抗戰紀念日。（周菊子攝）

波士頓榮光會理事長鄭增壽說明，七七抗日戰爭紀念會原訂七月份舉行，礙於7月4日的週六正好是美國建國250週年，會員們可能更加忙碌，因此提前至6月27日舉行。

由於榮光會前理事長石家孝之妻，曾任波士頓榮光會理事、監事，監事長的池元真於6月22日驟逝，大會進行前，全體出席者在場默哀一分鐘，為享年88歲的池元真，送上一份心意。

左起，沈慶雲，鄭增壽，蘇麗萍主持會員大會。（周菊子攝）

當天出席，和池元真交情深厚的江嫡華，蘇麗萍，分別憶述當年和池元真交往舊情。江嫡華透露，當年她初抵波士頓時，認識的第一個朋友就是池元真。蘇麗萍是因為愛跳舞，兩對夫婦經常結伴趕赴舞會，成為好友。她們兩人都十分懷念池元真的爽朗、親切大姊風範。

波士頓經文處黃耀良組長致詞。（周菊子攝）

當天的紀念會由理事長鄭增壽主持，楊麗雪擔任司儀，波士頓經文處黃耀良組長以嘉賓身份出席。

鄭增華為紀念七七抗日戰爭發言。（周菊子攝）

         榮光會資深會員，年近90的鄭增華為紀念七七抗日戰爭發表講話。他感嘆表示，許多美國退伍軍人和台灣是透過曾經在第二次世界大戰中併肩作戰，拉近了關係，但是七七抗日戰爭的這段歷史，有友好的美國退伍軍人非常感興趣，許多台灣人卻已忘記，或選擇性的不記憶。他希望人們不要忘記，在盧溝橋事變，抗日戰爭發生時，是中華民國率領軍隊和日本對抗，在第二次世界大戰結束，日本為戰敗投降時，日本投降的對象是中華民國，不是對岸的中國。

海軍老兵李先想到當年曾在一艘受降軍艦上負責升國旗的往事，不禁淚從中來。
（周菊子攝）

波士頓榮光會理事長鄭增壽補充道，日本當年在中國境內做的事，有許多令人髮指，其中之一是最近曝光的文件顯示，在第二次世界大戰期間的1938年秋，日本軍方曾用馬，狗，羊等血液，向23名俘虜「異種輸血」，藉以進行非人道的人體實驗。

當天的會員大會部分，由理事長鄭增壽，秘書長沈慶雲和前秘書長蘇麗萍主持。

楊麗雪擔任司儀。（周菊子攝）

鄭增壽報告8月份將與波士頓國民黨合作，舉辦暑期郊遊活動，10月初他將返台參加退輔會會議，11月7日為大波士頓本地的美國退伍軍人大遊行，年底將舉辦蔣公誕辰紀念日等活動。

該會目前有會員約120人，今年新增3名會員，包括鍾園餐廳創辦人喬達翔，監事長劉成之女劉克健，以及當年是海軍的陳俊德。

榮光會出席中華公所代表司徒榮義會報中華公所近況。（周菊子攝）

該會目前正在進行人事調整，各小組負責人將有變動，新任理事長人選已報請退輔會核實。財務張明燦報告道，該會帳戶目前結餘有16000餘元，請還未繳交會費者和他聯絡。

在會員大會中，秘書長沈慶雲還代表當天未克出席的副理事長陳家驊提出疑問，稱去年雙十遊行，有來自中國大陸的非會員應邀夾雜在遊行隊伍中，不知是否恰當。與會種人討論後，會員們認為可歡迎非會員參加遊行，以壯大聲勢，只是應事先報備，確認名單。

陳新友為會員大會唱歌助興。（周菊子攝）

榮光會理事長鄭增壽（左起），秘書長審慶雲和江嫡華等人一起發粽子。
（周菊子攝）

榮光會員們在會場唱歌。（周菊子攝）

榮光會員們穿上黃背心出席會議，很有氣勢。（周菊子攝）

曾在海軍服役的陳俊德新加入榮光會。（周菊子攝）

The New Bedford Whaling Museum Awarded $20,000 Grant for High School Apprenticeship Program

The New Bedford Whaling Museum Awarded $20,000 Grant for High School Apprenticeship Program

NEW BEDFORD, MA (July 1, 2026)—The New Bedford Whaling Museum (NBWM) has received a $20,000 grant from the SouthCoast Community Foundation (SCCF) as part of its 2026 Spring Grant Cycle. The funding will support NBWM’s High School Apprenticeship Program, a paid three-year development experience that provides high school students in New Bedford with access to resources and experiences that deepen community engagement, foster personal and professional growth, and cultivate college and career success.

“The Apprentice Program is a transformative three-year experience that empowers New Bedford youth to explore art, history, science, and culture while developing confidence, curiosity, and a sense of purpose,” said Amanda McMullen, NBWM’s President and CEO. “Through mentorship, hands-on learning, and meaningful community connections, students graduate not only prepared for college and careers, but ready to make a lasting impact in the world.”

A recipient of the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award, the New Bedford Whaling Museum’s High School Apprenticeship Program is a paid, three-year leadership and college-readiness initiative for New Bedford students beginning in 10th grade. Through summer and school-year sessions, apprentices explore whale biology, local history, and the diverse cultures represented in the Museum’s collections while gaining hands-on experience through field trips, event planning, and serving as Museum ambassadors. The program also supports students’ future success through college visits, career exploration opportunities, mentorship, and guidance with college applications and financial aid.

麻州參議會討論禁止在極熱天氣中斷電法案

With 100-Degree Heat on Radar, Senate Debates Bill to Stop Electric Shutoffs During Extreme Heat 

Bill would also provide suite of reforms to save ratepayers money on energy costs 

(BOSTON—7/1/2026) With temperatures expected to climb past 100 degrees this week, the Massachusetts Senate is debating legislation today that would make it illegal for utility companies to shut off electricity to residents struggling to pay their bills during the hottest months of the year. 

 The protections are part of a broader energy package, S.3143, which includes a suite of reforms to save ratepayers money on energy costs. 

 Under the legislation, electric companies would be barred from shutting off service to a residential customer who has trouble paying their bill because of financial hardship during periods that are expected to exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit for three consecutive days. The provision would be applicable in the summer months from May 15th to September 15th.  

“It is unconscionable that someone might not be able to keep their home at a safe temperature on a week like this one, just because they cannot pay energy bills that are too high,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This isn't an affordability issue, this is a safety issue, and today the Senate is doing something about it and making sure companies can’t shut off power when people need it most.” 

 “Extreme weather threatens our residents’ health and safety—whether it’s a midwinter deep freeze or a boiling heat wave in the middle of summer,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “None of our seniors, young families, or residents with health complications should have to struggle to cool themselves in their own homes during the muggy and suffocating days of a sustained heat wave. This legislation includes a vital protection so that our most vulnerable residents can feel secure that their fans and air conditioners will continue running on the hottest days of the year.” 

 “With families facing dangerously hot conditions this week, the last thing anyone should worry about is losing power,” said Senator Michael J. Barrett (D-Lexington), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy. “The systems run by the gas and electric companies are sprawling and complicated. The Senate sees no greedy masterminds behind the scenes, but we do see pockets of overspending and overcharging that have accumulated over the years. This bill goes after those excesses, saves people real money, and makes sure no one loses power when they need it most.” 

 “As climate change drives longer, more dangerous heat waves in Massachusetts, access to electricity is a life-or-death issue,” said Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton), lead filer of the original bill in the Senate. “The Commonwealth already protects residents from utility shutoffs in the winter—this legislation extends that same essential safeguard to periods of extreme heat, ensuring no one loses service when they need it most. I am grateful to Senator Mike Barrett, Senate President Karen Spilka, and Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues for their leadership on this equity-focused legislation. During extreme heat, access to electricity is not optional—it is essential for survival.” 

The larger bill tackles the rising costs driving up residents’ monthly bills by cutting unnecessary fees, smoothing out price spikes, cracking down on predatory sales practices by energy suppliers, and steering the state away from expensive infrastructure projects that don’t deliver value for ratepayers. 

Additionally, to reduce energy demand and drive down costs on the hottest days of the year, the bill prioritizes energy efficiency to reduce overall consumption, incorporates load management into grid planning, and promotes new technologies to manage demand at peak times. 

Full details of the Senate’s electricity affordability plan are available online.  

The Senate’s debate begins at 11:00 a.m. today and will be livestreamed online.  

吳弭市長簽署市政命令 2027年7/1起調整耆英房地產稅減免額

波士頓市議員Ruthzee Louijeune（左四），Brian Worrell （右二），以及耆英們
見證波士頓市長吳弭（前中）簽署命令。（市府提供）

 （Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）6月29日簽署一項市政命令，容許市府依照聯邦消費者物價指數的通貨膨脹率，每年調整耆英房地產稅減免額。新措施預計於2027年7月1日正式生效。

吳弭市長和波士頓市議員Ruthzee Louijeune，以及麻州耆英行動（Mass Senior Action），本地民選官員等人一起出席簽署儀式。

波士頓市目前藉由「41C項目」，以耆英的年紀，收入及資產為門檻標準，為耆英提供房地產稅減免。除非是麻州各地的許多市鎮，因為通貨膨脹，或居民及家庭的生活成本上漲等因素，認為這些門檻已經過時了，從而採取行動，提高了門檻。

41D條款，容許波士頓市政府每年根據聯邦消費者物價指出，調整「41C計畫」中的年收入和總資產限額，針對年滿65歲以上，持有住宅已達一定年數的耆英們，為他們提供1000到2000美元的房地產稅減免。

這條例由波士頓市議員Ruthzee Louijeune領頭遞交，市議員Brian Worrell 和Ben Weber連署。

吳弭市長表示，「幫助長者在熟悉的社區安度晚年，意味著讓他們能留在自己的家園，得到社區支持」。推動該法案的市議員Ruthzee Louijeune則指出，這項變革雖不能解決所有問題，但確實能保護那些面臨被「無聲驅離」風險的長者，不會因儲蓄或收入增加了一點，而失去稅務救濟。

根據市政府數據，波士頓有近半數的高齡屋主屬於「嚴重房貸負擔族」，每月將超過一半的收入用於住房成本。麻州年長者行動委員會波士頓分會會長Lillie Bryan指出，若這項措施能在過去幾年實施，她自己很可能就會符合資格。她同時呼籲州議會應進一步通過波士頓提出的「地方自治請願案」，擴大減免範圍。

除本次調整外，吳弭政府也持續推動其他房產稅改革，包括今年稍早提出的「轉讓費地方自治請願案」，擬對超過200萬美元的房產交易徵收最高2%的費用，作為可負擔住房的資金來源。

MAYOR MICHELLE WU SIGNS CITY ORDER TO EXPAND PROPERTY TAX RELIEF FOR OLDER HOMEOWNERS  Order updates senior property tax exemption limits each year to provide relief for low-income older homeowners

BOSTON - Tuesday, June 30, 2026 - Mayor Michelle Wu yesterday joined City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune, Mass Senior Action, local elected officials, and residents to sign a city order that lets Boston adjust the senior property tax break each year to keep up with the cost of living. Under this change, the income and assets limits for the senior exemption will rise annually with inflation, based on the federal Consumer Price Index. The new limits will allow more older homeowners to qualify starting on July 1, 2026. “Helping seniors age in place means keeping them connected to homes, neighborhoods, families, and support networks, and this order provides real relief to older homeowners at a time when costs keep rising,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I’m grateful to Councilor Louijeune for championing this effort and to the entire City Council for their partnership in supporting our older homeowners.” The City of Boston currently offers a senior property tax exemption under the 41C program, which provides property tax relief for older adults based on age, income and asset thresholds. These thresholds are fixed unless increased by local action and have become outdated for many municipalities across the state due to inflation and rising costs for residents and families.  “Investing in our seniors is more than a debt of gratitude, it’s a commitment to Boston’s future,” said City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune. “I am proud to have led the effort to adopt Clause 41D, helping protect older homeowners today while strengthening the promise that future generations will also be able to age in place, remain rooted, and continue shaping the neighborhoods they call home.” Adopting Clause 41D will help preserve property tax relief for Boston’s older adult homeowners who are at risk of losing eligibility as inflation affects their income and savings. This order was led and filed by City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune, co‑sponsored by City Councilors Brian Worrell and Ben Weber, and unanimously approved by the Boston City Council. This announcement builds on Mayor Wu and the City’s work to address affordability, protect residents and families from rising costs, and provide much-needed relief and assistance to older residents across neighborhoods. “Adding an annual cost of living increase will help people stay eligible for the 41C exemption as their Social Security adjusts with inflation,” said Emily Shea, Boston’s Age Strong Commissioner. “This is important because our older residents deserve the opportunity to age with dignity in the communities they helped build.” This new order will take effect on July 1, 2027 and applicants can begin to apply with the Taxpayer Referral Assistance Center. Income limits for residents will be posted on the City’s Assessing Department website on July 1, 2027. Nearly half of Boston's senior homeowners are severely housing cost-burdened, paying more than 50 percent of their income to housing costs. Ultimately, the City of Boston will have the ability to determine the final rate for the fee, collection method, and any exemptions that may exist.  Specifically, this order would: Increase the fixed income with social security amounts from $25,980 to $26,687 if single and from $38,970 to $40,031 if married and increase total assets from $40,000 to $41,080 if single and $55,000 to $56,485 if married; and broaden eligibility by replacing the fixed limits with a percentage increase of the CPI. Since 2022, the City has also included an expansion of the senior tax exemption in multiple filed home rule petitions to improve quality of life and protect older Boston residents. Through these efforts, the City has worked to secure expanded property tax relief for low-income seniors by modifying the eligibility criteria for the 41C program and increasing the exemption. These changes, if they were implemented by the State, would provide the City with flexibility to modernize the criteria and provide much-needed and sustainable financial assistance to a vulnerable population.  “Far too many seniors across Boston struggle with rising property taxes. We deeply appreciate Mayor Wu, Councilor Louijeune, and the City Council for doing all they can to expand relief,” said Lillie Bryan, President of the Boston Chapter of the Massachusetts Senior Action Council. “Clause 41D will protect seniors from losing access to the help they need by raising the income and asset limits each year to reflect the cost of living. We must now build on this victory to reach more seniors who need help, and we call on the legislature to pass Boston’s Home Rule petitions.” This action also builds on Mayor Wu and the City’s long-standing efforts to amend state laws to address the housing crisis and provide predictability for residents. Earlier this year, Mayor Wu signed the City’s Transfer Fee Home Rule Petition, a proposal to create a new local funding source for affordable housing. Passed by the Boston City Council on April 15, 2026, the petition is with the State Legislature for consideration. The proposal would allow Boston to apply a fee of up to 2% on real estate transactions over $2 million, with the first $2 million exempt to limit impacts on middle-class homeowners. The Mayor has advanced similar proposals in 2021 and 2023 and continues to pursue the transfer fee as a tool to help build more affordable housing across Boston. Last year, the City also refiled an expanded residential tax relief package that aimed at providing financial assistance to Boston residents impacted by sharp increases in their property tax bills.

麻州政府公佈報告強調戰略性資本投資降低成本、創造就業機會，還強化社區

（Boston Orange編譯）麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）發佈了《建設麻州》影響報告，以及33億多美元的2027會計年度資本投資計畫（CIP），彰顯這些資本投資在降低住房成本，改善交通，強化社區，創造全州各地就業機會上發揮的作用。

報告顯示，自現任政府上任以來，透過戰略性資本投資，已帶動全州新增4萬9,000戶住宅，透過經濟發展補助計畫創造超過14萬個就業機會，並修復或更換650座橋梁及676公里道路，同時完成約8,498公頃土地保育。

在住房政策方面，政府建造住宅經費大幅增加了91%，佔總工程投資15%，新推出的「住房工程（HousingWorks）」計畫協助社區加速興建住房所需的基礎設施，而相關購屋方案已協助超過7,500名首購族購屋。2027會計年度資本投資計畫續編1.225億美元給HousingWorks，以及6,470萬美元給可負擔住房信託基金。

交通建設方面，資本投資已支援全州140個城鎮完成道路修復及新建134公里人行道。透過「第90章」地方交通改善計畫，政府與州議會合作確保2025及2026年每年3億美元經費，其中1億美元依道路里程分配，嘉惠鄉村及小型社區。

氣候韌性方面，政府已完成93項「市鎮脆弱度整備」計畫，包括拆除老舊水壩、修復涵管、營造遮蔭空間及復育濕地，以因應高溫及洪水威脅。2027年度資本計畫將相關補助提高至3,100萬美元。

麻州州長奚莉表示，她的目標是要讓麻州成為更可負擔、更具競爭力，更適合居住、工作和養家的地方。副州長Kim Driscoll強調，每筆資本經費都應切實改善人民生活，這份報告展現審慎規劃與負責任投資能帶來的具體成果。

Healey-Driscoll Administration Releases Report Highlighting How Strategic Capital Investments are Lowering Costs, Creating Jobs and Strengthening Communities  

New report highlights investments that are creating housing, improving roads and bridges, strengthening public transportation, protecting natural resources and supporting economic growth across Massachusetts. 

Boston — Today, Governor Healey released Building Massachusetts, a new Impact Report highlighting how the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s capital investments are helping lower housing costs, improve transportation, strengthen communities and create jobs across Massachusetts. 

The administration's capital investments strengthen public infrastructure by directly funding projects and by providing grants for improvements that deliver long-term public benefits. Each year, the administration develops a Capital Investment Plan (CIP) to allocate available spending capacity on key priorities. The CIP complements the administration's investments made through the state's operating budget.  

Since taking office, the administration’s capital investments have paved the way for 49,000 new homes to be built across the state, generated more than 140,000 jobs through economic development grant programs, repaired or replaced 650 bridges and 420 miles of roadways, preserved 21,000 acres of land, and made it easier for Massachusetts residents to access modern, reliable state services. This impact report is being released alongside Governor Healey’s updated FY27 Capital Investment Plan, which invests more than $3.3 billion to continue advancing housing production and preservation, economic development, transportation, climate resilience, and strengthening Massachusetts’s long-term competitiveness.  

"Our goal has always been simple: make Massachusetts more affordable, more competitive and a better place to live, work and raise a family," said Governor Maura Healey. "That's exactly what these investments are doing. We're building more housing, fixing roads, bridges and public transportation, supporting local communities and creating good jobs across our state. We're proud of this progress, and we're going to keep making smart investments that strengthen Massachusetts for years to come." 

"Every capital dollar should make a real difference in people's lives," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "These investments are helping cities and towns improve local infrastructure, support economic growth and create stronger communities. This report shows the impact that thoughtful planning and responsible investments can have across Massachusetts." 

Last June, the administration’s CIP allocated capital funding growth for both FY26 and FY27, with new resources carved out for housing, economic development and transportation. With its focus on accelerating the pipeline for housing creation, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has increased capital funding for housing by 91 percent since taking office and the sector now accounts for 15 percent of the total CIP. 

The updated CIP released today makes a limited number of net-neutral adjustments in FY27 to align spending with current project schedules and program demand. These updates include accelerating priority projects, responding to strong demand in key programs, and ensuring resources are aligned with current project needs. The full CIP is available to view at this link: www.mass.gov/capital. 

“Capital investments are one of the most direct methods our administration has for delivering tangible results in our communities, and the Report we released today is proof that these investments are making a difference,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew J. Gorzkowicz. “Each year, we’ve practiced strong fiscal discipline in allocating capital funds, ensuring that grant programs with high demand are supported and that communities across the state benefit. We look forward to continuing to maximize the impact of our capital investments.” 

The report highlights the administration's focus on making housing more affordable by investing in the infrastructure and planning needed to build more homes. Capital investments have supported projects with the potential to create nearly 49,000 new housing units across Massachusetts while helping more than 7,500 first-time homebuyers purchase a home through programs such as Commonwealth Builder and ONE+ Mortgage. Since taking office, the administration has increased capital funding for housing by 91 percent and launched new programs like HousingWorks, which helps communities build the infrastructure needed to accelerate housing production, support private development and create jobs. The FY27 Capital Investment Plan continues those efforts with $122.5 million for HousingWorks and $64.7 million for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. 

The administration’s capital investments are also strengthening Massachusetts’ economy. State grant programs administered through the Community One Stop for Growth are projected to create up to 43,000 new full-time jobs, 11,000 new part-time jobs, and 86,000 construction jobs. In addition, state-funded construction projects have created more than 15,000 additional construction jobs across Massachusetts.  

The Healey-Driscoll Administration’s capital investments have also improved the safety and reliability of transportation across the state, supporting repairs and reconstruction of 420 miles of roadways, and building 83 miles of sidewalks across 140 Massachusetts cities and towns.  

Through the Chapter 90 program, which funds local transportation capital improvement projects such as roadway construction and preservation projects, the administration has supported approximately 1,600 local road projects. In 2025 and 2026, the Healey-Driscoll administration, in partnership with the Legislature, secured $300 million annual Chapter 90 funding, including $100 million allocated by road miles to provide added benefit to rural and small communities.   

The report also highlights how capital investments are protecting Massachusetts' natural resources and helping communities prepare for climate change. Since taking office, the administration has supported the completion of 93 Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) projects. MVP projects include removing aging dams and repairing undersized culverts, creating shaded public spaces to help residents stay safe during heat waves, and restoring wetlands that protect ecosystems and reduce neighborhood flooding. The updated FY27 CIP increases funding for MVP grants to $31 million to support the high demand for this program.  

The FY27 CIP also funds infrastructure projects to maintain, modernize, and decarbonize Massachusetts’s capital assets. The FY27 CIP includes more than $200 million to address deferred maintenance at facilities managed by the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM), minimizing future costs and maximizing building efficiency so that government can better meet the needs of Massachusetts’ residents.   

波士頓市府頒佈 7/1-3 天氣極熱警告 華氏105到112度

CITY OF BOSTON ISSUES EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING FROM WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, THROUGH FRIDAY, JULY 3

BOSTON - Tuesday, June 30, 2026 - Mayor Michelle Wu today issued an excessive heat warning for the City of Boston beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, July 1, through Friday, July 3 due to the current weather forecasts. The highest heat indices for this period of time are expected to range from 105 degrees to 112 degrees without significant reprieve in the evening and overnight hours. 

The City of Boston is taking immediate action to provide heat relief to residents and visitors. During a heat wave, Boston Emergency Medical Services typically experiences a 10-15% increase in calls to 9-1-1 for people of all ages. Anyone can feel the impacts of extreme heat, regardless of age or medical conditions. Some of the resources available include: AlertBoston, the City’s opt-in emergency alert system that provides guidance during major emergencies; cooling resources across the city; educational materials focused on kids’ safety; Boston Centers for Youth & Families locations that will operate as cooling centers; state-owned pools; and participating cultural institutions offering free admission to Boston residents, including the Museum of Science, Institute of Contemporary Art, Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, and John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. All information about these and other City resources are available at boston.gov/heat.

“Boston has welcomed visitors and residents this summer with vibrant events, cultural celebrations, and community gatherings across our neighborho∂ods, and we are asking everyone to spread the word about the upcoming intense heat expected in our region. Symptoms of heat illness can occur quickly and affect people of all ages, so it’s especially important to plan ahead. Please stay hydrated, use City cooling resources, and check in on family, friends, and neighbors, especially older adults, young children, and those with underlying health conditions,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Our priority is ensuring everyone can safely enjoy all the Summer activities, and I’m grateful to our City departments working around the clock to connect residents with the resources they need to stay safe and cool.”

This year, the City has updated its heat preparedness categorization thresholds and language for hot weather events to be in line with other partners and ensure resources are allocated efficiently. Instead of declaring a heat emergency, the City of Boston will now issue an excessive heat warning for 1 day of a heat index of 105°F or above for 2 or more consecutive hours or a temperature increase of at least 25°F within a 24-hour period of time with the high temperature reaching 90°F or above. Additionally, the City will now issue a heat advisory if there is a heat index of 95°F for 2 hours over 2 consecutive days or 1 day with a heat index of 100°F for 2 consecutive hours. 

The City’s excessive heat warning will lead to cooling centers being activated, additional support for residents along with a recommendation to reschedule most outdoor events. These updated thresholds, made in coordination with the Boston Public Health Commission and state partners, position the City to better respond to extreme heat events and ensure residents, visitors and families are safe and connected to resources.  

“Over the next few days, the City will experience extreme heat. We encourage everyone to take necessary precautions such as staying hydrated and to be on the lookout for individuals showing signs of heat related illnesses,” said Chief of Emergency Preparedness Adrian Jordan. “For more information regarding the symptoms of heat related illnesses and tips on how to stay cool visit boston.gov/heat!

Stay Informed

Residents can sign up to receive updates through AlertBoston, the City’s emergency mass notification system, by phone, text, or email for information regarding extreme weather events. AlertBoston notifications are available in 11 languages.

Residents, families and visitors are encouraged to visit boston.gov/heat, a city webpage with resources and tips to prepare for and stay safe during heat events. The page also has specific information for parents, older adults, people with disabilities, unhoused individuals, and others.

Places to Cool Off

Splash pads are open at various parks and playgrounds throughout the city. Several city pools are also available for swimming. Find an updated list of splash pads, pool locations and their operating hours at Boston.gov/pools. 

Boston Centers for Youth & Families community centers are available during normal business hours on Wednesday, July 1 and Thursday, July 2 for people to come in and cool off. Find locations and hours at Boston.gov/BCYF. On Friday, July 3, the following community centers and pools will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m unless otherwise noted below.

BCYF Clougherty Pool (will be open 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.), Charlestown

BCYF Condon Community Center (pool), South Boston

BCYF Curley Community Center (beach), South Boston

BCYF Curtis Hall Community Center, Jamaica Plain

BCYF Holland Community Center, Dorchester

BCYF Hyde Park Community Center

BCYF Marshall Community Center (pool), Dorchester

BCYF Mattahunt Community Center (pool), Mattapan

BCYF Mildred Avenue Community Center (pool), Mattapan

BCYF Quincy Community Center (pool), Chinatown

BCYF Shelburne Community Center, Roxbury

BCYF Tobin Community Center, Mission Hill

BCYF Vine Street Community Center, Roxbury

BCYF Draper Pool, West Roxbury

BCYF Flaherty Pool, Roslindale

BCYF Mason Pool, Roxbury

BCYF Paris Street Pool, East Boston

Boston Public Library locations are also available for residents to seek relief from the heat on Wednesday, July 1 and Thursday, July  2. Patrons are welcome to participate in BPL’s summer programming for kids, teens, and adults. 

In an effort to ensure that residents have wider access to spaces to cool down, get relief from the heat, and have an enjoyable cultural experiences, the following Boston cultural institutions will offer free admission to Boston residents:

Museum of Science 

Institute of Contemporary Art

Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum (available starting Thursday, July 3rd through the 5th) 

The Mayor issued the following heat safety tips:

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids regardless of activity level. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine.

Keep cool with frequent cool showers, shade, and air conditioning or fans. More tips for cooling down at home can be found on boston.gov/heat.

If you can not avoid being outside, take breaks in the shade, drink water constantly — even if you are not thirsty — and watch for warning signs like dizziness, nausea, or confusion.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion. Heavy sweating, cool and clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, and muscle aches could all be signs of heat exhaustion. If symptoms persist, call 9-1-1 immediately. Do not delay care. Heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. and can exacerbate underlying illnesses.

Adults and children should use sunscreen containing an SPF-30 or higher and wear protective, loose-fitting clothing including long sleeve shirts and hats.

Secure all window air conditioner units according to the manufacturer's specifications.

To help prevent electrical fires, always plug air conditioners and fans directly into a wall outlet. Never use extension cords or overload power strips, as these can overheat and create a serious fire hazard.

If you are heading to a beach, lake, or pool to beat the heat, swim where lifeguards are present. Always watch children near the water and make sure they are wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket.

Please call or check on neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities.

If you are an older adult and need help getting to a cooler space, the Age Strong Commission offers discounted taxi vouchers for seniors and people with disabilities. Call 617-635-4366 for more information.

Please keep pets indoors, hydrated, and cool as asphalt and ground conditions are significantly hotter and unsafe during heat.

Information and resources to support individuals experiencing homelessness:  

If you see a person experiencing homelessness or individuals out in the heat who appear immobile or disoriented, please call 911. 

The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) utilizes a city-wide network of emergency shelters, outreach providers, city agencies, and first responders to assist those in need of shelter. 

Boston Public Health Commission's emergency shelters have air conditioning and are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and when temperatures are 90 degrees or above, amnesty is in place for those with nonviolent restrictions. In anticipation of this extreme heat event, amnesty has been preemptively declared for Wednesday, July 1, through Saturday, July 4. Men can access shelter at the 112 Southampton Street Shelter, and women should go to the Woods Mullen Shelter at 794 Massachusetts Ave. BPHC and the City also work closely with other shelter providers to ensure that no client is without shelter, food, resources, and a cool respite from the heat. 

Shelters are available any time of day or night for those in need. 

Boston Public Health Commission’s street outreach teams providing recovery services continue operating as normal from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends transporting people to shelter, day spaces, treatment, home, or places of origin. During this stretch of extreme heat, outreach workers will be passing out water to those who need it.

Youth and Outdoor Safety:  

Hot weather affects infants and young children more than most adults because they heat up more quickly and sweat less. The potential impacts of heat on childhood health and development can be lifelong. 

Children and pets should never be left alone in vehicles, even for short periods of time.

If you have a child under the age of 10 in your home, install child window guards in addition to screens on any open window that is more than 12 feet above ground. Falls are the leading cause of injury for children under the age of six.   

Parents, guardians, and educators can visit boston.gov/cool-kids to make an action plan and review heat guides for children.

Shoes should be worn outdoors, including on splash pads, spray decks, playgrounds, and turf athletic fields, as surfaces can become extremely hot and cause burns.

Outdoor Fires and Grilling:

No outdoor fires are allowed in Boston, including fire pits, chimineas, and bonfires.

Charcoal grills must be on the ground and away from buildings. Keep in mind the wind and never leave grills unattended. Dispose of the ash in a metal container once completely out.

Propane tank grills are only allowed on first floor porches with steps to the ground. Do not place propane tank grills near air conditioners or up against a building. Make sure all connections are tight and never carry propane tanks into a home.

Grills should always be used in a well-ventilated area.

The City of Boston’s work is guided by the Heat Resilience Solutions for Boston framework to prepare for hotter summers and more intense heat events. The Heat Plan presents 26 strategies that will help build a more just, equitable, and resilient Boston.

波士頓市長吳弭宣佈 7/1在芬衛球場辦看球派對

 （Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）6月30日宣布，將於7月1日晚間在芬衛（Fenway) 球場旁的米高梅（MGM）音樂廳，舉辦美國隊出戰波士尼亞（Bosnia）和赫塞哥維納（Herzegovina）的世界盃足球賽免費觀賽派對。

由於波士頓本週正逢熱浪侵襲，這場活動特別選在室內場地舉行，讓球迷能在舒適環境中為美國隊加油。

這場觀賽派對將於7月1日下午6點開放入場，比賽則於晚間8點開踢。活動採免費入場制，名額有限，有意參加的民眾必須事先上網登記。

吳弭市長表示，體育賽事能凝聚社區情感，感謝合作夥伴提供安全的室內空間，讓球迷在酷熱天氣中仍能享受觀賽樂趣。

波士頓作為本屆世界盃主辦城市之一，迄今已舉辦四場社區觀賽派對，包括西班牙對維德角、巴西對海地等組合。市議員杜肯（Sharon Durkan）指出，世界盃為波士頓帶來空前的活力與經濟效益，能在市中心舉辦美國隊賽事的觀賽派對別具意義。

市府表示，7月還將規劃三場觀賽活動，分別為準決賽與決賽。此外，波士頓官網也已公布淘汰賽階段全市各處的免費觀賽地點，供民眾查詢。

MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES NEW WATCH PARTY FOR FIFA WORLD CUP GAME BETWEEN USA AND BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 

BOSTON - June 30, 2026 - Today, Mayor Michelle Wu announced a free, family-friendly watch party for the USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina FIFA World Cup match inviting residents and visitors to cheer on Team USA and celebrate Boston as a host city and the momentum created by fans from all over the world.

The MGM Music Hall at Fenway will serve as the location for the watch party on Wednesday, July 1, amid a heat wave that is expected to bring high temperatures to the region this week. This event has limited capacity, and attendees must register in advance at this link.

“Sports bring us together as one big community, no matter where we live or who we root for, and Boston is keeping up the incredible momentum from the World Cup,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “As Team USA prepares to play Bosnia and Herzegovina and we head into a heat wave, we thank our partners at Boston Red Sox and Crossroads Presents for working with us to provide safe, welcoming spaces where fans can stay cool, watch the match, and enjoy the game with family and friends.”

Watch parties are part of Mayor Wu’s efforts to host free, community based events for everyone to enjoy the World Cup festivities. To date, the City of Boston has hosted four community watch parties for Spain vs. Cabo Verde, Brazil vs. Haiti, Cabo Verde vs. Saudi Arabia, and Colombia vs. Portugal. These gatherings have brought the excitement of the World Cup directly into Boston’s neighborhoods, creating welcoming spaces for residents to come together close to home. 

“The energy and economic vitality the World Cup has brought to Boston have been absolutely unmatched. I am incredibly excited to keep that momentum going right in the heart of our city's sports scene with a watch party at MGM Music Hall at Fenway,” said City Councilor Sharon Durkan. “There is nothing quite like celebrating these historic moments surrounded by the passion and spirit of Boston fans. Go Team USA!”

Three additional watch parties are scheduled for the semifinals and the final in July, with more events in development. 

Additionally, the City has compiled a list of free watch parties taking place across Boston for the knockout stage matches. Information on locations and additional details can be found at www.boston.gov/watchparties

DCB生技團來訪波士頓 康麗雪主持首場台灣創辦人交流會

左起，劉韋博，魏宇峰，蔡孟勳，塗醒哲，許衍明，康麗雪，李柏勳等人。
（主辦單位提供）

   （Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓綜合報導）台灣生物技術開發中心（DCB）率領的代表團來麻州，進行為期4天的一連串交流訪問，6月29日先在乾船塢鑄造廠（The Foundry at Drydock）舉辦「台灣創辦人交流會」。

會議主持人康麗雪表示，這次聚會旨在把來自台灣的大波士頓本地企業創辦人和來自台灣的新創團隊，以及投資者，業界領袖，生態系統夥伴等會聚一堂，交流經驗。

台灣生物技術開發中心董事長塗醒哲致詞。（周菊子攝）

台灣生物技術開發中心董事長塗醒哲在開場致詞中說明，該機構是台灣非營利性的生技生態係機構，已成立42年，主要任務是結合學術界與政府力量，支持傳統研究，推動生物技術和醫療發展。

    29日早上安排有2場交流座談。

車卓憲（左一）主持第一場座談。（周菊子攝）

    第一場的主題是「建造，打破，重建：連續創業家指南（Build, Break, Rebuild: The Serial Founder Playbook），由銀杏（Ginkgo）共同創辦人車卓憲(Austin Che)主持，與談人有Portal Biotech共同創辦人兼執行長Armon Sharei，Wonderlab Bio共同創辦人兼執行長Robin Smith，Abbratech & Precision Biotools共同創辦人兼執行長Michael Weiner。

王惠萱（左一）主持第二場座談。（周菊子攝）

    第二場的主題是「資金、科學與夥伴關係：打造藥物的真實條件（Capital, Science, and Partnerships: What It Really Takes to Build a Drug），由PathCision Medicine共同創辦人兼執行長王惠萱（Shana Wang）主持，與談人包括Generian的CMO李柏勳（Po-shun Lee），Curie Bio資深副總裁Michael Schlabach，諾和諾德（Novo Nordisk）罕見疾病研發與評估資深處長施心沛（Hsin-Pei Shih）。

部分出席者合影。（周菊子攝）

    這些企業創始人交流了創業時最關鍵的錯誤是沒找到“對的協助”，勸創業者不要被大藥廠的高階頭銜迷惑，應該貨比三家的多方諮詢，把技術應用在不夠大，或者不夠有野心的問題上，可能會遇到藥做出來，卻沒人在乎的情況。

    施心沛提醒道，小型生技公司該把思考重心放在要解決什麼問題上，告訴人們自己的技術能做什麼，解決什麼問題，針對哪個群體，那個適應症，說到底，商業價值是存在於技術之上的故事與應用場景，而不是技術本身。

    當天應邀出席的本地創業家，還有許衍明，魏宇峰等人。波士頓經文處科技組組長蔡孟勳也專程前往交流。

    台灣生物技術開發中心產業發展處處長劉韋博表示，該中心這次帶了5個新創團隊到波士頓交流，將參訪MIT，德勤（Deloitte），麻州挑戰（MC），Sanofi，CIC，MassBio和BioLab等企業及組織。7月1日將和新英格蘭玉山科技協會合作，舉辦一場台灣波士頓生物科技交流會。

麻州州長Healey提草案 禁止向消費者信用機構申報醫療債務

麻州州長Maura Healey著手協助州民減輕醫療債務負擔。（周菊子攝）

 （Boston Orange周菊子綜合報導）麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）今（30）日宣佈，正採取措施，將以法規全面禁止醫療債務出現在消費者的信用報告中，以防止民眾因一場意外疾病或醫療緊急狀況，就陷入長期的財務困境。

麻州州長Maura Healey（右）稱許Atrius 健康公平基金會會長黃承安（Ann Hwang)等
非牟利機構做得好。（周菊子攝） 

麻州公共衛生廳（DPH）為此擬定新規定草案，將禁止持有執照的所有醫療服務提供者及其委託的債務催收機構，向信貸機構通報患者的醫療欠款。若業者違反規定，將面臨吊銷執照的嚴厲處分。州內23個專業執照委員會已一致同意採取進一步行動，即日起公開徵詢民眾對該法規草案的意見，並將於7月27日與28日舉行公聽會。

麻州州長Maura Healey和Healthcare for All團隊合影。（周菊子攝）

奚莉州長表示：「生病已經讓人夠煎熬了，個人信用不應該就此毀壞。醫療債務不應該讓民眾在康復多年後，仍難以買房、租屋或申請貸款」，此舉確保一張意外的醫療帳單不會演變成數年的經濟負擔，是讓麻州變得更可負擔的重要一步。

麻州州長Maura Healey和醫療服務提供者團隊合影。（周菊子攝）

公共衛生廳廳長羅比·戈德斯坦（Robbie Goldstein）和衛生與公共服務廳廳長基亞梅·馬哈尼亞（Kiame Mahaniah）也都表示，醫療債務不僅是經濟問題，更是公共衛生議題。但醫療債務和一般消費債務不同，不是出於個人選擇，人們不應在就醫與擔心信用受損之間掙扎。

根據Atrius 健康公平基金會發布的調查報告，麻州每8名居民中就有1人揹負醫療債務，其中低收入家庭與有色人種社區更為嚴重。而麻州雖擁有全美排名第一的醫療系統，但聯邦政策的變化，可能有多達30萬名患者的保險會受影響。

Atrius 健康公平基金會（Atrius Health Equity Foundation）和過重的醫療債務（Undue Medical Debt）及麻州健康與醫院協會（MHA）因此於6月25日宣佈，將為超過14萬名麻州居民免除總額逾1.7億美元的醫療債務。這將是麻州史上規模最大的同類救濟行動，受惠者主要為東麻州的中低收入居民，個人獲減免金額從50美元到45萬美元不等平均每人獲減免約1,226美元。

凡事醫療債務金額佔年收入5%以上；或收入等於或低於聯邦貧困線4倍（個人年收入≤63,840美元；四口之家≤132,000美元）的符合資格家庭，將無需申請，自動被選中，並會從2026年7月7日起收到Undue Medical Debt寄發的通知信件。收到信件者無須採取任何行動，符合條件的債務將自動註銷，無附帶條件。

麻州州長Maura Healey著手協助州民減輕醫療債務負擔。（周菊子攝）

Atrius 健康公平基金會等合作夥伴估計，他們將為麻州民眾累計消除超過2.55億美元的醫療債務，後續將透過政策倡導、法律代理與消費者權益倡議等做法，持續處理醫療債務問題。

Governor Healey Moves to Ban Medical Debt from Consumer Credit Reports  

BOSTON -- Governor Maura Healey today announced new action to stop medical debt from being reported to consumer credit agencies in Massachusetts. This would prohibit licensed health care providers and debt collectors working on their behalf from reporting medical debt to credit bureaus, helping protect patients from long-term financial harm after an unexpected illness or medical emergency. This is the latest step in Governor Healey’s work to lower health care costs, protect patients and ensure residents are getting the care they need. 

"Getting sick is hard enough. It shouldn't ruin your credit," said Governor Maura Healey. "No one should have to worry that seeing a doctor, filling a prescription or taking their child to the emergency room will damage their financial future. Medical debt shouldn't make it harder to buy a home, rent an apartment or get a loan years after you've recovered and when you’re working hard to make your payments. This action will help protect patients while we continue our work to lower health care costs and ensure all Massachusetts residents can afford to get the care they need when they need it." 

"Medical debt can follow families long after they've recovered from an illness or emergency," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "We’re helping to ensure that one unexpected health care bill doesn't create years of financial hardship. It's another important step in our work to lower costs and make Massachusetts more affordable." 

“Today’s action by the Governor is a much needed first step in preventing disastrous ‘debt spirals,’” said Health & Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah, MD, MBA. “Families in Massachusetts should be able to access the health care they need free from the worry that their credit could be ruined – potentially impacting their housing and other finances. Regardless of the federal government’s approach, in Massachusetts we’re committed to building a more affordable, more sustainable health care system that puts consumers first.” 

“No one should have to weigh the risk of a damaged credit score against the need to see a doctor, fill a prescription, or seek emergency care,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “But for too many families, that fear of financial instability can be as debilitating as illness itself. Medical debt is more than an economic issue. It is a public health issue. This action will give families across the state something they all deserve – peace of mind to get the medical help they need without fear of sacrificing financial security.”  

"Health emergencies are stressful enough without the added worry of long-term financial fallout," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "Making sure medical debt doesn't follow families around as they try to buy a home, finance a vehicle, or simply navigate life is critical. As the Senate continues our work to lower costs across the board, we stand with Governor Healey in protecting families from a terrible medical day turning into a financial burden that follows them for years." 

"No one should forego seeking health care out of fear of what it will cost and having to choose between paying a medical bill and paying for groceries, rent, or car insurance,” said Senator Cindy F. Friedman, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee Health Care Financing. “While there is so much more we can and should do to increase access and affordability in health care, prohibiting medical debt from being reported to credit bureaus is a good starting point."  

“Patients should never be forced to choose between protecting their health and protecting their financial stability,” said Representative John Lawn (D-Watertown), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing. “The burden of medical debt falls disproportionately on communities of color, further deepening health inequities and wealth inequities. I applaud Governor Healey for her leadership while the federal government retreats from its responsibility to protect patients and consumers. In Massachusetts, we continue to take action to make health care more affordable.”  

The Department of Public Health (DPH) developed the proposed regulations and all 23 of the Department’s licensing boards voted to advance them for public comment. The Department is now accepting written public comments on the proposed regulations and will hold public hearings on July 27 and 28 before finalizing the rules. After these hearings, the Department will evaluate all comments received and finalize the proposed regulation. 

Medical debt can have long-lasting consequences that extend well beyond a hospital bill. A serious illness, cancer diagnosis, complicated pregnancy or trip to the emergency room can leave people with bills they never anticipated and often cannot afford. When medical debt appears on a consumer credit report, it can make it harder to buy a home, rent an apartment, finance a car or qualify for a loan, even for people who have health insurance and are working to pay their bills. 

Unlike most forms of consumer debt, medical debt is often unavoidable. No one chooses to get sick, be diagnosed with cancer or take their child to the emergency room. These proposed regulations recognize that patients shouldn't face years of financial consequences simply because they needed medical care. 

Today’s action builds on Governor Healey’s broader efforts to make health care more affordable for Massachusetts residents. While this action protects families from some of the financial fallout of medical debt, the administration is also pursuing reforms that reduce the health care costs that can lead to that debt in the first place. 

To address high health care costs, Governor Healey became the first Massachusetts Governor to cap co-pays and deductibles to limit out of pocket costs. She eliminated prior authorization requirements for routine and essential health care, including cancer scans and medications for chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes and heart disease. And she invested the most state funding in the country to protect 270,000 residents from significant health insurance cost increases after President Trump decided not to extend Affordable Care Act premium tax credits. Additionally, the Governor’s Health Care Affordability Working Group continues to focus on additional ways to lower health care costs and improve access to care across Massachusetts.   

Governor Healey first pledged to take this action to ban medical debt from being reported to credit agencies in her State of the Commonwealth address. 

美最高法院裁定川普終止屬地出生公民權命令違憲 麻州長Healey發聲明稱讚

     （Boston Orange編譯）美國聯邦最高法院今（30）日以 6 比 3 票裁決，川普（Donald Trump）總統的終止「屬地出生公民權」行政命令違憲。麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）發聲明，盛讚這裁決結果。

    川普總統在 2025 年，他第2個總統任期的上任第一天，簽署了一項行政命令，規定無合法身分或僅持臨時簽證的父母，其在美出生的子女將不再自動享有美國國籍。

    批評者指責川普企圖以行政命令推翻美國憲法第十四修正案。

    最高法院首席大法官羅伯茨（John Roberts）在多數意見書中表示，憲法對出生公民權的承諾至今未變，總統無權透過行政命令修改憲法。

    判決出爐後，麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）立即發表聲明，盛讚這裁決。奚莉指出，出生公民權是美國國家認同的核心，並強調「最高法院今天明確表示：川普總統不能改寫憲法」。她同時對麻州總檢察長坎貝爾（Andrea Campbell）等積極參與法律抗爭的人員表達謝意，並重申麻州將繼續捍衛移民家庭與孩童的權益。

    川普則在社群平台上對判決表示遺憾，並呼籲國會應立即透過立法程序終止出生公民權。 

Statement from Governor Maura Healey on Supreme Court Decision Preserving Birthright Citizenship 

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today released the following statement in response to the Supreme Court's decision blocking President Trump from ending birthright citizenship: 

"Today's decision upholds a fundamental constitutional principle that has defined our nation for generations.    

"Birthright citizenship is central to who we are as a nation. It has provided certainty for families across the country and protects the rights of children born on American soil.  The Supreme Court made clear today: President Trump can’t rewrite the Constitution. I’m grateful to Attorney General Campbell and her colleagues for standing up for our communities. 

"Massachusetts is stronger because of the diversity of our people and the contributions of immigrant families. We will continue working to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed and thrive."  

本週三至週六氣溫上看華氏110度 麻州政府促請民眾及遊客注意防曬

    （Boston Orange編譯）氣象局對麻州等多個地區發佈「極端高溫預警」，從週三持續至週六晚間，都市地區體感溫度恐飆升至攝氏43.3度（華氏110度）。由於適逢美國國慶連假，麻州政府嚴正呼籲民眾與遊客提高警覺。

    麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）提醒，連假出遊或戶外活動務必做好防曬與避暑規劃。副州長Kim Driscoll也呼籲民眾隨時補充水分，並主動關懷長者與弱勢鄰居。

    州政府相關單位建議民眾，為預防中暑與熱衰竭，宜減少在炎熱時段外出，室外活動應每15至20分鐘補充冷開水。有關單位還嚴厲警告，切勿將孩童或寵物單獨留在車內，以免數分鐘內發生憾事。目前當地已開放圖書館、社區中心等冷氣場所作為避暑中心，全力維持連假期間的交通與公共安全。

Healey-Driscoll Administration Urges Residents and Visitors to Take Precautions Ahead of Dangerous Heat 

Heat index values up to 110 degrees are possible between Wednesday and Friday, according to the National Weather Service 

BOSTON – Due to the extreme heat expected to impact Massachusetts ahead of the busy holiday weekend, the Healey-Driscoll Administration urges residents and visitors to plan ahead and take steps to prevent heat-related illness. 

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for most of the state from Wednesday morning through Saturday evening. Heat index values could reach up to 110 degrees, especially in urban areas. These hot and humid conditions may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. 

"We're expecting dangerously high temperatures across Massachusetts over the next several days, and I want everyone to take this heat seriously," said Governor Maura Healey. "Whether you're celebrating the Fourth of July, traveling, or spending time outdoors with family and friends, please plan ahead and take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Check on your loved ones and neighbors, stay informed about the forecast and seek a cool place if you need one. We want everyone to enjoy a safe and happy holiday." 

"With so many people traveling and celebrating across Massachusetts this week, we're asking everyone to plan ahead and put safety first," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "Stay hydrated, take breaks from the heat when you can and look out for those who may be more vulnerable to these dangerous temperatures." 

To reduce the risks of heat-related illness including heat stroke and heat exhaustion, residents should:  

• Minimize time spent outdoors, especially during the hottest parts of the day. If you are outside, apply sunscreen (SPF of at least 30) 15-20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, and wear protective clothing to avoid sunburn.  

• Stay hydrated by drinking lots of cool water every 15-20 minutes and avoiding alcoholic or caffeinated beverages. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time. 

• Seek out air-conditioned buildings like libraries and community centers to spend time in. Call 2-1-1 to find locations of cooling centers or shelters near you.  

• Never leave children or pets in the car alone – the temperatures will rise to unhealthy levels within minutes.  

• Check in on neighbors who may need assistance making a plan, including the homebound, elderly, or disabled.    

• Dress for the heat by wearing a hat, light-colored, loose fitting, and breathable clothing. 

• As always, call 9-1-1 in an emergency.  

"Our team is working closely with local, state, federal, and nonprofit partners to monitor conditions and support communities across the Commonwealth during this period of extreme heat. While public safety and health agencies are prepared to respond if needed, the most effective response starts with personal preparedness,” said Massachusetts Emergency Management Director Dawn Brantley. “Stay informed with the latest forecast, adjust your plans if necessary, stay hydrated, and recognize the signs of heat-related illness, including headache, dizziness, fatigue and nausea.” 

“As temperatures remain high across the state, we encourage everyone traveling this summer to put safety first planning ahead for the heat,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “Whether you’re driving, taking public transportation, biking or walking, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and take breaks in the shade. We are committed to keeping our transportation system safe and helping everyone reach their destinations safely during periods of extreme weather.” 

DPH 

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) reminds residents that extreme heat can affect anyone, but older adults, young children, pregnant people, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, and those without access to air conditioning are at greater risk for heat-related illness. DPH encourages residents to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, stay in cool or air-conditioned spaces whenever possible, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. Residents can also sign up to receive community heat alerts and access additional heat safety resources. For more information, including the Massachusetts Unhealthy Heat Forecast, visit: Massachusetts Unhealthy Heat Forecast | Mass.gov. 

DPU 

The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) issued a letter yesterday to Eversource, National Grid, Unitil, and Municipal Light Plants requesting that they refrain from shutting off residential customers’ electric service who are experiencing financial hardship throughout the extreme heat event and during any Unhealthy Heat Alert throughout this summer. Currently, the DPU’s regulations provide for a moratorium on residential shut-offs during the winter season only, but Governor Healey’s Energy Affordability Independence and Innovation Act includes placing a moratorium on electric shutoffs during periods of unhealthy heat.   

DCR 

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) encourages residents and visitors to beat the heat by visiting one of its beaches, pools, spray decks, or wading pools located across Massachusetts.  

• Guarded beaches are staffed daily from 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.  

• Agency-managed pools are open 11:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m., seven days a week. 

• Guarded wading pools are open daily from 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., and spray decks operate daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

DCR continues to make its recreational facilities accessible for all visitors. All DCR swimming pools are equipped with chair lifts, and several pools feature ramps or zero-depth entry, and select pools and spray decks offer beach wheelchairs. Beach wheelchairs are also available at 44 DCR beaches statewide. 

Before heading out, visitors are encouraged to check DCR's Park Alerts for facility closures or changes in operating hours and review the Beach Water Quality Dashboard for the latest water quality conditions 

Residents working outdoors should remember these words: “Water. Rest. Shade.” Outdoor workers should drink water frequently, take regular breaks in shaded or cool areas, and watch for signs of heat-related illness. Employers are encouraged to take steps to protect workers during periods of extreme heat. Additional workplace heat safety resources are available through OSHA's Heat Illness Prevention program, and the Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards offers free SafetyWorks consultation services to help employers prevent heat-related illnesses and other workplace hazards.  

MassDOT  

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation Highway Division is ensuring all proper protocols are in effect to protect employees and contractor personnel who are subject to extended exposure to extreme heat. 

The Highway Division will also monitor the operation of select movable bridges, including drawbridges to ensure that extreme heat does not affect the equipment used to raise and lower these structures or impact their normal operating conditions. 

 MBTA   

Riders are encouraged to learn more about keeping cool in the heat and consult the T’s Extreme Heat Guide.    

The MBTA anticipates that service will run as usual but may operate trains at reduced speeds in some areas to compensate for heat-related stress on the tracks, which could result in slightly longer travel times. In addition to operating trains at reduced speeds if necessary, crews perform track inspections and make emergency repairs as needed. Overhead wires that power some vehicles can expand and sag during extremely hot weather, so the MBTA makes adjustments to prevent low-hanging wires as well.  

The MBTA reminds riders to let staff know if there are air conditioning issues on the bus or train. Tell an operator, let a station official know, call 617-222-3200, send us a message, or message the MBTA on X @MBTA. Be sure to include a bus or train number. 

Massachusetts residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor weather forecasts for the most up-to-date information. For the latest updates, follow the National Weather Service Boston/Norton and MEMA on Facebook, Instagram, and X, formerly Twitter.