Author: john_velis

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August 29, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hi everyone, 

I hope you were all able to enjoy these last few days of summer before school starts up again. August has been a busy month across the district, and we’re looking forward to an equally busy fall here in Western Massachusetts. 

Monday marked the first day of school for Holyoke Public Schools, the first district in our region to return to the classroom. I hope students, educators, and staff across all our communities are off to a strong start. Team Velis also held office hours at the Holyoke Council on Aging, where we had the chance to connect directly with constituents and hear what’s on their minds. 

On Tuesday, I attended the groundbreaking for the Westfield Police Department’s new headquarters at 6 Union Street. This new facility has been a long time coming and will give the department the space and resources it needs to continue serving the Westfield community. Construction is expected to be completed in September 2027. 

Team Velis also started Tuesday morning at the Southampton Council on Aging, where Bridget joined the morning coffee group and knitting club to catch up on summer happenings and talk through some ideas for potential legislation next session. 

On Wednesday, Team Velis attended the ribbon cutting for Vital Care of Springfield in West Springfield. It was great to welcome them to the community and learn more about the infusion therapy services they will be providing to patients throughout Western Massachusetts.  

On Thursday evening, Team Velis joined OneHolyoke CDC’s Neighbor Circles, a four-part community conversation series that brings residents together to discuss concerns in the city, identify shared priorities, and talk about potential solutions. Opportunities like these are a great way for us to hear directly from residents about what’s happening in their neighborhoods and what they’d like to see addressed. 

On Friday, Behavioral Health Network hosted its annual International Overdose Awareness event in Springfield. This ceremony of remembrance gives our community an important opportunity to honor those we have lost, reduce the stigma surrounding substance use disorder, and support those who are battling addiction or working toward recovery. 

And finally, one event I’ve been especially looking forward to: the 2026 “Commonwealth Classic.” Senator Gómez and I will be coaching teams of youth from the Greater Holyoke YMCA and YMCA of Greater Springfield this Saturday at the Basketball Hall of Fame. Anyone who knows me knows how much I love basketball, and I’m especially excited to see these kids get the opportunity to take the court at one of Western Massachusetts’ most iconic institutions. I’m looking forward to a fun night and some friendly competition with Team Gómez! 

We will hold our next office hours at the Agawam Council on Aging on Monday, September 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. If you’re unable to attend, you can always reach us by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572-3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Best, 

John Velis

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August 22, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hi everyone,  

I hope that everyone had a great week and was able to enjoy the nice weather! August has been jam packed with different events throughout the district, and this week was no exception. 

On Monday evening I joined Easthampton residents at an Overdose Awareness Candlelight Vigil that was hosted by Learn to Cope. It was truly a beautiful gathering and a reminder to all of us of the importance of coming together and sharing the memories of those we have lost to overdoses. 

On Tuesday I had the opportunity to sit down with the Secretary of the Executive Office of Education (EOE), Stephen Zrike (the former Superintendent of Holyoke Public Schools), to discuss different public safety programs in our schools and potential standardized school emergency maps for districts across the state. We discussed how EOE could collaborate with the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) as we continue to research funding pathways to provide these protects from our students.  

I was proud to start the day on Wednesday by visiting Camp Shepard at the Westfield YMCA to announce $100,000 in state funding I secured in the FY27 state budget for the camp. This earmark funding will go towards infrastructure improvements to camp facilities and increase programming for this incredible community staple. While touring the site, Mayor McCabe, Representative Pease, and I all tried our hand at archery, and we could all use a little more target practice!   

Team Velis was also proud to celebrate National Aviation Day on Wednesday and honor our Commonwealth’s vibrant aviation industry. As Chair of the Legislature’s Aviation Caucus, I have been proud to support our aviation sector in Massachusetts, including right here in Westfield.  

Later Wednesday afternoon, I attended Sheriff Cocchi’s annual cookout, which is always a great opportunity for community leaders, organizations, and residents from across the Commonwealth for an afternoon of food, conversation, and fun! 

Thursday was another busy day in the district! I started my day off in Holyoke, attending the ribbon cutting for Florence Bank’s new location. It is so exciting to welcome a community bank that works to engage beyond the business side of things into Holyoke. Later that afternoon, I met with residents from Greater Springfield Senior Services at their new West Springfield location to discuss the Supportive Housing Program, and how state legislation can support services available to help older adults. This meeting was a great opportunity to reconnect with residents at the new GSSS site and discuss civic engagement directly with community leaders. 

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Holyoke. Next week we will be hosting office hours at the Russell Council on Aging on Tuesday from 11:30am to 12:30pm and again on Wednesday at the Southampton Council on Aging from 9:30am to 10:30am. If you are unable to make office hours, you can reach us by email,  john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone, (413) 572-3920, and online at senatorjohnvelis.com.    

Sincerely,  
John Velis 

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August 15, 2026 Weekly Update

Hello everyone,  

I hope you’re enjoying August and finding ways to stay cool—I know I’m already looking forward to the cooler months ahead! 

One of the nice parts about August is that I get to spend a bit more time in the district, meeting with folks and organizations from throughout our communities. I kicked off the week on Monday by calling bingo at the Agawam Senior Center. It was an absolute blast, and I loved the enthusiasm our seniors brought. Visiting our community centers is always a highlight, and it was great to join in on the fun activities they host. 

On Wednesday, I sat down with the Managing Editors of “So That Reminds Me”, a biweekly podcast produced by Reminder Publishing. We had a great conversation about our recent economic deployment bill, legislation related to cell phones in schools and social media, how I stayed connected with my team during my deployment, and more. Be sure to keep an eye out and tune in to hear our conversation and some of my updates from the Senate. 

Later Wednesday, I sat down with our partners from Western Mass Access Care to discuss support services for aging adults in our district, and potential legislation for next session. These conversations are essential as we work to ensure elders and their families have access to the resources they need. 

On Thursday, my district team and I met with OneHolyoke CDC to talk about recent community development projects and statewide initiatives, including legislation we passed this session to promote early literacy and support libraries. OneHolyoke CDC has been leading the charge on early literacy programs, and it’s been great to work alongside them on legislation this session. We also discussed the transition of the organization, as Nayroby Rosa has taken over as Executive Director after my good friend Mike Moriarty’s departure. 

This weekend marks the 80th anniversary of India’s independence, and communities across our district continue to gather to commemorate this historic day. On Friday, Chicopee residents met at City Hall for the annual Indian Independence Day Flag Raising Ceremony, and this weekend the Gujarati Association of Western Massachusetts and the Indian Association of Greater Springfield will host their Independence Day celebration. 

If you’re looking for something else fun to do with your family this weekend, Southampton is hosting its annual town picnic, Celebrate Southampton. Attractions include raffles, balloon art, face painting, the Citizen of the Year presentation, and more. Stop by Conant Park and enjoy the summer weather with friends, family, and neighbors! 

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in West Springfield. Next week, we will hold office hours at the Holyoke Council on Aging on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. If you’re unable to attend, you can always reach us by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572-3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely,  
John Velis 

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Senate Passes Bill to Protect Firefighters, Construction Workers from Deadly Code Violations

(BOSTON—8/13/2026) The Massachusetts Senate today passed legislation to protect firefighters, construction workers, and the public by strengthening penalties for fire code and building code violations that result in death or serious injury.

Under the bill, people who commit certain fire code or building code violations that cause a death would face a criminal penalty of up to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $500,000.

The legislation carries out key recommendations of the Walsh-Kennedy Commission. The Legislature formed the commission after the deadly 2014 brownstone fire in Boston’s Back Bay, which was caused by unpermitted welding work and killed Boston Fire Lieutenant Edward Walsh and Firefighter Michael Kennedy.

“Our firefighters and construction workers run toward danger so the rest of us don’t have to. The very least we can do is make sure the rules meant to protect them are followed—and that there are real consequences when they’re not. The Walsh‑Kennedy Commission made clear that cutting corners can cost lives, and this bill reflects that truth.,” said Senator John C, Velis (D-Westfield). “By establishing serious penalties for reckless violations of fire and building codes, we are honoring Lieutenant Walsh and Firefighter Kennedy, strengthening accountability, and taking meaningful steps to prevent another tragedy like the one that shook Boston in 2014.”

“Lieutenant Walsh and Firefighter Kennedy’s lives were tragically cut short because someone chose to cut a corner,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Absolutely no one should lose a parent, spouse, or loved one because fire code was not followed, and this bill makes clear that we will hold people accountable if they ignore safety rules and put other people in danger. I applaud Senator Brownsberger and Senator Collins for their leadership and thank Chair Rodrigues for shepherding this legislation to the floor.”

“This legislation is an important step toward setting clear standards for this dangerous work, strengthening accountability, and creating stronger incentives to put safety first,” said Senator Nick Collins (D-South Boston), Co-Chair of the Walsh-Kennedy Commission. “We learned from past tragedies, and we have a responsibility to carry those lessons forward to better protect workers, firefighters, and the neighborhoods where this work is taking place. I was proud to serve on the commission and have direct, informed conversations with the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts and Boston Firefighters Local 718, and I want to thank my Senate colleagues for helping see this effort through to this important point.” 

In cases where a fire code or building code violation causes serious bodily injury, the criminal penalty would include up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

The bill also significantly enhances the penalty for violations of the state fire prevention law related to hot work—which includes welding, plasma cutting, and spark-producing construction. It increases the fine for a first offense from $100 to $1,000.

Third and subsequent offenses for hot work violations could be penalized with up to two and a half years in a house of correction and a share of the building project’s total value.

The legislation—S.3251, An Act implementing the recommendations of the Walsh-Kennedy Commission Report—also codifies criteria for the training and certification of people conducting hot work.

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

This is the second bill that the Senate has passed this session to strengthen safety for first responders and tradespeople conducting hot work. The first bill, which went on to be passed by the House and signed by the Governor, created requirements for consistent tracking and notification of code violations.

The Senate Committee on Ways and Means redrafted the bill and reported it to the full Senate with a 16-0 vote on August 10, 2026. All votes at the committee and chamber levels are publicly posted on the Legislature’s website. Following open deliberation and remarks during today’s session, the Senate unanimously passed the bill and sent it back to the House for further consideration.

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August 8, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,

Happy August! It’s hard to believe we’re already in the final month of summer.

After a busy July wrapping up the 195th formal legislative session, this week brought a welcome shift in pace. I’m looking forward to taking advantage of the slower month by catching up with friends and family and spending more time around the district.

Team Velis started off the week by hosting office hours in Agawam. It’s always wonderful to connect with our constituents and assist with any concerns they may have.

On Tuesday night, Agawam High School honored 25 students at the Adult Education Graduation Ceremony—an incredible milestone. Congratulations to all of this year’s graduates! I can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.

Friday marked Purple Heart Day, observed annually to honor the brave U.S. service members who were wounded or killed in military combat. Communities across our district held events to recognize their sacrifice, including West Springfield, Westfield, and Holyoke. Team Velis was honored to attend the annual Purple Heart Day Luncheon in Holyoke, hosted by the Western Massachusetts Veterans’ Service Officers’ Association. It is always a privilege to join our community and veterans in recognizing and thanking local Purple Heart recipients for their service. Sharing a meal and hearing the stories of veterans and their families is truly a humbling experience.

This week also marks Team Velis’ final week with our summer interns. Our entire office extends a huge thank you to each of them for their hard work and dedication in serving our constituents throughout the summer. We will miss having them in the office and cannot wait to see what the future holds for this bright group of individuals!

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Agawam. Next week, we will hold office hours at the Chicopee Council on Aging on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and again at the West Springfield Council on Aging on Wednesday from 11:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m.  If you’re unable to attend, you can always reach us by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572‑3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com.

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Senate Applauds Housing Progress on Affordable Homes Act Anniversary

(BOSTON—8/6/2026) Two years after the Legislature passed the landmark Affordable Homes Act, the law continues to deliver measurable progress toward increasing housing production, lowering barriers to building, and helping more Massachusetts residents find homes they can afford.

Signed into law on August 6, 2024, the Affordable Homes Act represented the largest housing investment in Massachusetts history, pairing more than $5 billion in housing authorizations with sweeping policy reforms designed to increase the Commonwealth’s housing supply, preserve affordable homes, and make housing more accessible for residents across the state.

“The Affordable Homes Act is proof that when we treat housing like the urgent, statewide challenge it is, we can deliver real results for Massachusetts families. In just two years, this law has helped put thousands of new homes on the ground, expanded options like ADUs, and strengthened protections for buyers and renters alike,” said Senator John C. Velis (D-Westfield). I’m committed to continuing the push for policies that make housing more affordable, more accessible, and more reflective of the needs of every community across our Commonwealth, especially here in Western Mass.”

“We have made real progress in addressing our housing crisis because of the Affordable Homes Act,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “We invested in building more homes, we cut red tape, and we strengthened protections for renters and homeowners. This session, we built on that progress with innovative solutions, from shifting brokers’ fees away from renters, to eliminating the sales tax on building materials for certain housing construction. There is more work to do, and the Senate will continue pursuing policies that lower housing costs and expand housing opportunities across Massachusetts.”

“As a millennial, I’ve seen firsthand how Massachusetts’ dire housing shortage is harming our families, our workforce and our future prosperity,” said Chair of the Joint Committee on Housing Senator Julian Cyr. “The Affordable Homes Act demonstrates what we can accomplish with bold investments and new approaches to this persistent but solvable problem. Because of the Affordable Homes Act, we’re finally putting a real dent in a decades-in-the-making housing crisis with a sweeping array of tools and resources to construct and preserve housing across the Commonwealth. We’ve only seen the beginning of what this landmark legislation will deliver in the coming years. I’m also heartened that we’ve passed significant housing provisions in this legislative session, and I look forward to building on this momentum to make Massachusetts a place where everyone can call home.”

Housing Stock 

In 2025, Massachusetts added more than 35,000 homes across the state, marking major progress toward building more housing and driving down costs. 

ADUs

As of February 2026, over 1,200 Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) had been approved because of the legislation. The Affordable Homes Act allowed ADUs to be built by right in communities everywhere in Massachusetts. 

Momentum Fund: Catalyzing Middle Income Housing 

The legislation created the Momentum Fund, a first-in-the-nation state revolving fund to support mixed-income housing production. Using $50 million in public equity funding, the financing has already supported the development of 627 mixed-income rental homes, including 140 affordable homes across the state, as of July 2026. 

Protecting Homebuyers’ Inspection Rights 

The bill made Massachusetts a national leader in buyer protections by protecting a homebuyers’ right to a home inspection and prohibiting sellers or their agents from selling a home on the condition that a buyer waive an inspection. The policy also prevents a seller from accepting an offer if the seller is informed in advance that the buyer intends to waive their right to an inspection.

The Senate has continued to build on that progress during the 2025–2026 legislative session, approving legislation that would allow duplexes by right in residential districts statewide, shifting brokers’ fees away from renters, eliminating the sales tax on building materials for certain housing construction projects, creating new opportunities to convert underutilized commercial properties into housing, passing major permitting reforms so shovels get in the ground faster, requiring more timely review processes for housing construction projects, and providing incentives to communities building housing.

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August 1, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hi everyone,

I hope you all had a great week despite the rain! Team Velis and I were eager to jump into the final week of July!

On Tuesday, we hosted office hours at the Russell Council on Aging. During our visit, Bridget met with community leaders and constituents to discuss funding included in the State’s Fair Share supplemental budget, specifically support for student transportation in the rural regional school district. We also heard exciting news about Russell beginning preparations for a new playground project, and I can’t wait to visit the playground once it is complete to play some catch with my little man, Carson!

Wednesday was a busy day throughout the district. We started in Southampton with office hours, where we joined the Veterans Coffee Hour and Knitting Club in conversations about local life. From there, Team Velis traveled to Holyoke for the kickoff of Holyoke’s Fiestas Patronales, celebrating its 5th anniversary and welcoming the mayor of Naranjito, Puerto Rico, Orlando Ortiz Chevres, along with several community leaders. We hope the rest of the weekend is filled with great music, food, and celebration!

On Thursday morning, Team Velis met with the Western Mass Network to End Homelessness. The taskforce brought together service providers and local officials to discuss housing policies and priorities aimed at supporting residents across the region. Later in the day, our office attended an announcement in Springfield unveiling a major capital investment in the MassMutual Center and funding that will help upgrade the facility, strengthen the regional economy, and enhance the home of the Springfield Thunderbirds. I am hopeful that these measures will help reinforce the MassMutual Center’s role as a key driver of tourism, entertainment, and economic activity in Western Massachusetts. We closed Thursday by celebrating Big Y’s 90th anniversary in Chicopee alongside Lieutenant Governor Driscoll and other community partners, recognizing the company’s longstanding commitment to Western Massachusetts.

Throughout the week, Beacon Hill has been lively as the legislature wraps up formal sessions. With this deadline in mind, my team and I were focused on pushing a number of legislative priorities over the finish-line, and the Senate took up several compromise conference committee reports, including final legislation related to home care workers and much more. Team Velis and I are continuously grateful for the opportunity to serve and our community throughout this legislative period.

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in both Russell and Southampton. Next week, we will hold office hours at the Agawam Council on Aging on Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. If you’re unable to attend, you can always reach us by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572‑3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com.

Best,

John Velis

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July 25, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hello everyone, 

I hope you all had a great week and are enjoying the summer weather!

With the end of the legislative session approaching, it’s been another busy week on Beacon Hill as we continued discussions on the Economic Development Bond Bill in the Senate, and other bills that are still pending in the Legislature.

Tuesday morning though, I was in the District and had the chance to sit down with the Westfield Fire Chief, Eric Bishop, at the Fire Headquarters. I never pass up an opportunity to meet with our community’s first responders and learn more about their day to day work, and how my office can better support their needs going forward, including potential infrastructure improvements. 

Wednesday brought a full day at the State House, beginning with Democratic Caucus where I discussed with my colleagues several bills that I hope we will take up before the end of legislative sessions. Wednesday afternoon, Gabe also welcomed students from Westfield State University’s Summer Bridge Program for a tour of the State House and overview of the history and the Massachusetts legislative process. It’s always encouraging to see young people engaging with the government and learning more about how our institutions work. Go Owls!

Later that afternoon, the Senate began debate on a major Economic Development Bill, (S.3178), a proposal that aims to strengthen the Massachusetts economy by investing $325 million into job creation, supporting small businesses, downtown revitalization, expansion of housing production, and increasing public safety. The debate on the over 500 amendments filed continued on Thursday and led to a final bill that was amended and improved by every member of the Senate. I am proud to join my colleagues in supporting legislation that will drive Massachusetts forward through investing in our communities and directly supporting our local communities. 

To round out the week, Mark attended the Barnes Air National Guard Base Restoration Advisory Board meeting on Thursday night, where they discussed updates from the Environmental Restoration Program (ERP), which manages the cleanup of any chemicals affecting our drinking water and air quality. 

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Easthampton. Next week, we will host office hours at the Russell Council on Aging on Tuesday from 11:30am to 12:30pm, and again at the Southampton Council on Aging on Wednesday from 9:30am to 10:30am . If you are unable to make office hours, please remember that you can reach us by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413)- 572-3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com

Best, 

John Velis

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July 18, 2026 Weekly Update

Hello Everyone, 

I hope everyone got the chance to enjoy some of the sunny weather this week! It is hard to believe that we are nearly halfway through the summer. 

This week Team Velis was hard at work meeting with constituents and local officials, both in the district and the State House. I started Monday off strong by getting the opportunity to meet with the new president of Western New England University, Dr. Joseph Hartman. It was wonderful to sit down and hear about the new President’s priorities.  On Monday, Team Velis also joined the Holyoke Food and Resources coalition meeting, where we met with local providers to discuss food access and local community resources. 

I started off Tuesday morning in Chicopee with office hours, where I never fail to have a great time meeting with members of our community and hear concerns directly from them. Tuesday afternoon was the highlight of my week as I stopped by the Easthampton Fire Department Open House and caught up with folks from across the community. The open house featured ice cream, a simulated fire house, and a dunk tank! I happily took a turn in the dunk tank, and while I was dunked over 20 times, it made the summer heat a little bit more bearable. Overall it was great to see so many families get to know their local fire department. 

On Thursday the Senate was in session to discuss two major health care bills. One bill would establish a statewide licensure system for home care agencies, creating stronger standards to improve the quality of care for those receiving services at home. The second would strengthen protections for health care workers by requiring hospitals and medical facilities to develop workplace violence prevention plans and enhance security measures. These bills raise an important discussion around improving both patient care, and care for the dedicated professionals who serve our communities. I was grateful to see them both pass and am looking forward to the next few weeks of legislative formal sessions.

I ended the week on Friday morning with the Hampshire Sheriff’s Office Legislative Breakfast, where I got the opportunity to discuss the FY27 budget framework, including staffing and inmate care, and receive an update about office operations throughout Hampshire County. 

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Chicopee and Holyoke. Next week, we will host office hours at the Easthampton Council on Aging at 10:30a.m. on Tuesday. If you are unable to make office hours, please remember that you can reach us by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413)- 572-3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com

Best,
John Velis

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

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

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

Massachusetts is currently among a handful of states that do not regulate home care agencies. By checking and licensing home care workers, the Senate bill gives peace of mind to families while also ensuring that workers are safe and prepared. 

“For so many older adults and individuals living with disabilities, home care services make the difference between remaining in the comfort of their own home and having to seek institutional care,” shared Senator Velis (D-Westfield) Senate Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Aging and Independence . “For far too long, Massachusetts has lacked a statewide licensure process for home care agencies. Every resident deserves access to safe, reliable, and high quality care, so I was absolutely supporting of this effort.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Statement of Support

Cari Medina, Executive Vice President, 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East

“As Massachusetts’ population ages, the demand for home care is rising. Older adults and people with disabilities who receive care at home, and their families, deserve protection from fly-by-night home care operations that cut corners and mistreat workers to make a quick buck. This legislation establishes clear standards, backed by state oversight, to ensure that those entrusted with caring for our state’s most vulnerable residents live up to that serious responsibility. We appreciate Senate President Spilka and Senator Rodrigues for their support of this critical legislation, and want to especially thank Senator Jehlen for her strong leadership on behalf of homecare workers and those they care for. We look forward to working to get this legislation over the finish line and provide the common-sense protections that older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers deserve.” 

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