Happy April!
We had a busy week to close out the month. On Monday, Team Velis visited Camp Edwards down in Cape Cod. As Chair of the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs as well as the National Guard Caucus, it was great to learn more about their active military missions. Later on Monday, Representative Duffy and I gave a legislative update to Holyoke City Council to discuss some of our work in the State House on behalf of Holyoke.
On Tuesday I was proud to provide testimony to the Joint Committee on Revenue in support of my bill, S1959, An Act relative to providing tax relief. I filed this bill to increase the Dependent Tax Credits, the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit, and the Estate Tax Threshold. I continue to hear from families and seniors throughout the district who are struggling to make ends meet and will continue to fight for tax relief this session however I can.
This Wednesday marked fifty years since the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam. I was grateful to attend ceremonies in West Springfield and Chicopee on Vietnam War Veterans Day to remember and honor those who bravely served our country during the War.
Also on Wednesday, Senate Housing Committee Chair Lydia Edwards from East Boston joined me for a discussion with housing authorities throughout our district. We had a very productive conversation on how we can improve the Common Housing Application for Massachusetts Programs (CHAMP) and support Public Housing Authorities generally.
I was in session on Thursday as the Massachusetts Senate unanimously passed the Chapter 90 Bond Bill. This bill and the Chapter 90 Program provide funding to invest in and support our state infrastructure and local road and bridge projects.
If you are unable to make our office hours or need assistance any sooner, I can always be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or by phone: (413) 572-3920. You can also find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com where you can also sign up for my newsletter!
Best,
John