October is upon us! It is truly crazy how quickly we have been flung into fall and I can’t believe winter is around the corner. I had a number of different meetings and tours this week and also have information regarding the budget to share.
This week I was proud to sign on to a letter with my Western Massachusetts Colleagues urging Governor Baker to nominate a jurist from Western Mass to one of the two vacant seats on the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. There is currently no representation from our region on the Court and it was imperative that they have all perspectives and experiences at the table on our highest State Court. I can also announce today that the first public hearing for the Holyoke Soldiers Legislative Oversight Committee is going to be scheduled for the later part of this month. This first hearing will be an important opportunity for families to speak directly to the committee and this past Sunday I had a meeting with some of my colleagues to go over planning and logistics
On Monday I had an introductory call with Kevin McCaffery from the Holyoke Chamber of Commerce and later had a meeting with Representative Vega and Holyoke Community College President Royal. We discussed a number of different K-12 related initiatives related to HCC including child-care, early college, and dual enrollment options. Our local colleges are so important to our communities and I always love getting involved. Tuesday afternoon, I joined Westfield State University President Roy Saigo to welcome students back to campus and also take a tour of some of their facilities.
Also on Tuesday, I held a listening session for constituents who are concerned about the pending merger of Farren Health Center in Montague and Mount Saint Vincent in Holyoke. There are real and tangible concerns about this type of change during this pandemic and I am grateful to have had these conversations. Later in the week, my office participated in the Department of Public Health’s hearing on this issue, where we brought up these concerns and advocated for our constituents. I hope that this move can be held off until after the pandemic, and my office will continue working and communicating with residents and families.
I began Wednesday with a tour of Savage Arms and a in-depth conversation with CEO Al Kasper. Among many things, we talked extensively about workforce development and how we can provide options for the next generation to get into trades and manufacturing. As assistant vice-chair on the Labor and Workforce Development committee, this topic truly resonates with me. We need to do a better job of teaching students about all the professional opportunities they have and connect them with the resources to succeed. Later on Wednesday, I headed down to the State Police Academy in New Braintree. Col. Mason had invited members of the legislature down to learn about the different types of training and programming that recruits go through. We were walked through de-escalation techniques and use of force defensive tactics, and engaged in productive discussions about policies and trainings. It was an incredibly informative and eye-opening day and I’m grateful to have been a part of it.
Thursday brought with it a lot of budget information and I had a long virtual caucus with legislative colleagues about the state of the budget. I am glad to report that we are closing out Fiscal Year 2020 without having had to dip into any of our state’s “rainy day fund”, but that does not mean that Fiscal Year 2021 will be the same way. Mitigating and preventing painful cuts will be a huge part of our work in the FY21 budget, as we work through these difficult economic times. Next Tuesday, the Ways and Means committee will be hosting a economic round table for the Senate which will result in a new consensus revenue number that that will be the basis of the actual budgeting numbers process. The big unknown is whether or not there will be any federal relief. While there is still an outside chance of that happening, we simply have to keep moving forward on the state level as best we can. There will really be no end to our budgeting work because as soon as we finish the budget for FY21, we will immediately begin work on FY22. These two budget years are structurally intertwined in a way that we really haven’t seen before which means that a lot of work from the FY21 budget is going to carry into the FY22 budget. I have been meeting with groups that depend on state funding all over the district and know how important this budget will be for organizations during this pandemic. I will keep you all updated on the process as it continues.
As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or by phone: (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com.
September 16, 2020 – Daily Hampshire Gazette – Bera Dunau
Area lawmakers are calling on Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack to reopen Registry of Motor Vehicles offices in Greenfield and Easthampton and offer dedicated service hours to older drivers across the region.
Special hours for those 74 and older to renew their licenses in person were recently added at the RMV Service Center in Springfield, but that’s not enough for some members of the western Massachusetts delegation.
“This is just another example of something that is fundamentally unfair to the western part of the state,” said Sen. John Velis, D-Westfield.
In Massachusetts, those 75 and older must renew their driver’s licenses in person. Initially, when the RMV announced on Sept. 1 dedicated service hours for those 75 and older renewing their licenses in person, no western Massachusetts locations were included. The RMV locations included in that initial announcement were Danvers, Leominster, New Bedford, South Yarmouth and Watertown, with Watertown offering the hours starting on Sept. 2 and the other locations offering the hours starting on Sept. 9.
On Wednesday, the Springfield RMV debuted a half-day of dedicated service hours.
In response to the announcement, 13 legislators, including Velis, signed a letter to Pollack. “We are writing today to request that you reopen the RMV locations in Greenfield and Easthampton and provide dedicated service hours for customers who are 75 years of age or older at three sites in western Massachusetts: one in Berkshire County, one in Franklin County and one in Hampshire County,” reads part of the letter.
Others signatories included Rep. Natalie Blais, D-Sunderland, Rep. Dan Carey, D-Easthampton, Rep. Lindsay Sabadosa, D-Northampton, and Sen. Jo Comerford, D-Northampton.
A total of 18 legislators who represent the four counties in Western Massachusetts are joining the effort to urge Gov. Charlie Baker to fill at least one of two vacant seats on the Supreme Judicial Court with a resident from Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden or Hampshire County.
The senators and representatives sent a letter to the governor arguing that the state’s highest court does not have any justices who have served or lived in the western part of the state and called for more regional balance in the state’s highest court.
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Those who signed the letter are Sens. Jo Comerford, Eric Lesser, Adam G. Hinds and John Velis. The Representatives are Aaron Vega, Natalie M. Blais, Joseph F. Wagner, Brian Ashe, Nicholas Boldyga, Michael J. Finn, Mindy Domb, Susannah Whipps, Todd Smola, John Barrett III, Tricia Farley-Bouvier, Lindsay Sabadosa, Jose Tosado and Daniel R. Carey.
This past week the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection announced stricter regulations regarding PFAS levels in public drinking water, and awarded a $200,000 grant to the Westfield Public Water System to support their efforts in addressing PFAS contamination.
The new drinking water standard for PFAS establishes a limit of 20 parts per trillion (ppt) for the sum of six PFAS compounds, called “PFAS6.” This new level of 20 ppt provides a much higher degree of protection compared to the previous guidance of 70 ppt, particularly for sensitive subgroups including pregnant women, nursing mothers and infants. The regulations also require that public water suppliers begin quarterly testing for PFAS in 2021, and mandates that they must act when there is a detection above the limit. There are currently no federal PFAS standards for drinking water, and very few state regulations as well.
“The long term health consequences of PFAS are abundantly clear, and these new regulations and funding are a critical step towards protecting our communities and our health from long-lasting dangers,” said Senator John Velis. “It is completely unfair that we have been forced to bear this public health and financial burden when we had nothing to do with it. During my time in the legislature, I have fought for funds wherever I can to ensure that Westfield residents are not penalized for trying to do the right thing and fixing their drinking water.”
City Councilor Kristen Mello, who has worked with community members to bring attention to PFAS levels in Westfield, stressed the importance of these regulations and noted how much work Senator Velis and others have put in for this to happen.
“We are proud to take our place among the states who have placed legally enforceable limits on PFAS in drinking water in the absence of federal action. Finalizing this Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for six PFAS in drinking water is another vital step forward in reducing toxic PFAS exposure to residents of our communities ,” said Councilor Mello. “Residents from Westfield and other affected communities are grateful that, from our first meeting with MA DEP asking for a PFAS MCL in April 2018 to the last hearing for public comment in 2020, Senator John Velis has been there with us advocating for our communities every step of the way.”
“This is really the culmination of years of work, and years of advocacy from constituents and residents,” said Senator Velis. “We have worked so hard to bring our concerns to the State and to make sure that Westfield is not forgotten about when it comes to PFAS. I’m just relieved that action like this is finally taking place.”
The $200,000 grant awarded to the Westfield Public Water System will provide funding for planning, studies, pump tests, and engineering to support their efforts to address PFAS contamination and to design a system to eliminate it in their drinking water. Nine other municipalities in the State that have high PFAS levels were also selected for grants.
When asked about the grant, Councilor Melo said that it will help to ease the financial stress of dealing with PFAS, “Addressing the local need for assistance in testing and treatment for these “forever chemicals” helps to ensure those of us bearing the burden of PFAS exposure are not facing additional financial burden from the regulation intended to decrease that exposure.”
“The grant provided to Westfield is so important because it will allow us to continue working towards our ultimate goal of removing PFAS from our water systems completely,” said Senator Velis. “There’s still much more to be done, but these are tangible accomplishments, and I’m grateful for all of the Westfield community members who have worked alongside me.”
I hope you all had a great week. I have some updates regarding PFAS, Climate Project Grants, and RMV services to share this week, in addition to sharing about some meetings I had.
This past Thursday, the Department of Environmental Protection announced new regulations to protect our drinking water from PFAS with the biggest change being a new Maximum Containment Level of 20 ppt per the sum of 6 compounds. This new level provides a much higher degree of protection compared to the previous guidance of 70 ppt and Public Water Systems will have to begin quarterly sampling for PFAS in 2021. This is such an important change; one that has been truly years in the making. Westfield was selected along with nine other communities to receive a $200,000 grant to continue their research and engineering on completely removing PFAS contamination from our water systems. As Westfield’s State Rep., I worked closely with City Councilor Kristen Mello and other community members to bring our concerns to the State’s attention. After hard work from all involved, I’m ecstatic that action like this is finally taking place. The ultimate goal is to have water completely free of PFAS. These new regulations and funding are important steps towards that goal and in the meantime help to protect our communities and our health.
Earlier this month, the RMV announced special hours for those 74 and older to renew their licenses in person. While this is an excellent initiative, the lack of currently open locations in Western Massachusetts means that many residents are unable to access these special hours. Last week, I joined many of my Western Mass. legislative colleagues in writing a letter to Secretary Pollack of MassDOT expressing concerns and requesting that the RMV locations in Greenfield and Easthampton be reopened. Our letter pointed out many of the transportation issues that exist with current locations and stressed the importance of extending senior hours to Western Mass. residents. This week, MassDOT announced that the Greenfield RMV location will be reopening on October 13th, with dedicated Senior Service hours on Wednesdays. While this is no doubt an improvement, I am disappointed that Easthampton was not included, and am going to continue to work with my colleagues on this issue. If you are ever experiencing difficulties with the RMV, whether it be getting a license or even just getting in contact with someone, please reach out to my office. We will place an inquiry, and have been highly successful at resolving issues.
Last week it was also announced that the State would be providing climate resiliency grants to cities and towns through the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) program. The goal of this program is to identify climate hazards, develop strategies to improve resilience, and implement action to adapt to climate change. Several communities in the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire received grants. Holyoke received a $135,000 grant for their Urban Forest Equity Plan. Easthampton received a $175,000 grant for Green Infrastructure and Resiliency Design for the City’s Cherry Street Project. Agawam received a $216,000 grant for their Stormwater Master Plan. Granville also received a $27,000 grant for further Climate Change planning. It’s critical that we continue to address climate hazards that arise and these funds will go a long way in helping our communities invest in that work.
This past Tuesday evening, I had a meeting with the Russell Board of Selectman to discuss the Woronoco Bridge project. I look forward to continued conversations as I learn more about how I can best assist with this project as well as others in the town.
Wednesday was a day full of virtual meetings for me. I began with a Gateway Cities Legislative Caucus Meeting where I discussed some of the district specific issues we are facing with my legislative colleagues. Later that afternoon, Representative Dan Carey and I hosted a virtual discussion and briefing on Adult Day Programs in Western Mass with many of our legislative colleagues in attendance. We had quite a few groups join us, including Riverside Industries, Valley Educational Associates, and Sunshine Village. It was eye-opening to hear of some of the challenges they have faced as a result of COVID-19 and it is clear that many are struggling during these difficult financial times. I’m grateful for their work in our communities and I will continue to work to help them respond and recover. Later that afternoon, I had a legislative call with Senator-Elect Adam Gomez and local restaurant owners where we discussed Sports Gambling legislation and its possible impacts on our businesses and communities.
On Thursday I joined the Department of Veterans Services, the architecture firm Payette, and various veteran organizations for a zoom call discussing the plans for a new Holyoke Soldiers Home. It is critical that the input of veterans organizations and community members who know the home well is taken into account. Payette is looking for more input from the community and if anyone is interested in completing a survey in regards to what the new Home should provide, please reach out to my office.
Friday my staff joined the Easthampton Council on Aging to hand out lunches to residents who came by. Later that afternoon I had my bi-weekly meeting with President Royal of Holyoke Community College, where we discussed how the start of classes has been going. On Saturday, I joined community members and volunteers to spend some time cleaning up the Westfield River. It’s always encouraging to see so many of our community out working together and it always feels good to get outside and make a tangible impact on our natural surroundings.
As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or by phone: (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com.
This week was the start of school for many in our district and I hope all students had a great first week. We are all so thankful for our teachers, who have adapted in so many different ways, and for all the staff behind the scenes who have been working so hard to welcome our students back.
I thought I would share some updates on the Commonwealth’s budget process this week. As some of you may know, the legislature did not pass a full fiscal-year budget this past summer as usual; instead opting for a interim budget that carries us through October. One reason for this is because we did not know how the federal government was going to act or what their budget was going to look like. As much our budget is based off what we receive from the federal government, this lack of federal action has made handling our state budget difficult. Furthermore, since the income tax deadline was extended from March 15 to July 15, final tax revenues were delayed, and it would’ve been hard to do a budget without knowing our total revenue. All this being said, we are still working hard on a full fiscal-year budget that will take us from November through the end of July. With groups and entities being asked to do more with less, this year more than ever Senators and Representatives are going to have to work extremely hard to make sure their districts get what they need.
October will be a crucial month for budget deliberation, and my job will be to meet with as many stakeholders out there as possible so that I can learn more about their needs and advocate for them. I have no doubt that this coming month will be one of the busiest I have ever had in elected office as I work to ensure that Westfield and the other 10 cities and towns in our [C(1] district get their fair share in the budget. This work has really already started, as this past Wednesday I met with Ways and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues to talk about the budget, our districts needs, and the priorities I have for this year.
On Wednesday, I also had an in-depth meeting with Tapestry Health in Holyoke. I currently sit on the Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery Joint Committee in the legislature and it’s crucial for me to get out and see the actual work taking place on the ground. In addition to running our local rapid COVID-19 testing site in Agawam, Tapestry has a huge impact on those dealing with mental health and substance use and we need to continue to support those in our community who are facing these issues.
Tuesday morning, I joined Southwick’s Council on Aging to talk with seniors as part of their “Tuesday Talks” with elected officials. It was great to have a chance to talk to directly to constituents about what’s on their minds, and explain a little bit about my work.
At the end of our Senate session this past Thursday, I was honored to put forth a motion to adjourn in memory of long-time Holyoke resident Marty Dunn. Marty was a former Mayor of Holyoke, a former State Senator from the Hampden and Hampshire district, and an incredible community leader. He taught me so much about Holyoke and beyond. His kindness and generosity were known far and wide. I will miss him greatly and am proud I could put forth this motion in his honor.
Earlier Thursday morning, I joined the Holyoke Taxpayers Association virtually for their annual meeting where it was great to see some new and friendly faces. During lunchtime, I headed over to the Westfield Senior Center to join the Council on Aging and the Westfield Police Department to hand out some drive-by lunches to residents. We handed out over 180 lunches, all while wearing purple to honor World Alzheimer’s month this September. I had some great conversations, and can’t thank the WPD and the COA enough for all that they do. After some work in the office, I had a walking meeting with Rebecca Hart regarding the Westfield Food Pantry. They’re applying for a grant for a mobile food truck and it was great to hear about the expansion! I wrapped up my day by joining Westfield State’s Annual Foundation Meeting to talk about some of the great work the they do for our students.
This past Friday was National Prisoners of War/Missing Action (POW/MIA) Recognition day. We must always remember and recognize the sacrifices of those in our military who were Prisoners of War and those who are still missing to those day. Their service to our nation will never be forgotten and we must never cease our search for all those who remain missing. Wednesday evening, I attended a MIA/POW Candlelight Ceremony at Pine Hill Cemetery Chapel in Westfield where I gave our service members and their families my thoughts and prayers.
As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or by phone: (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com.
Sincerely,
John C. Velis
Senator Velis at the Westfield Senior Center on Thursday with the Westfield Police Department and Westfield Council on Aging. They handed out over 180 lunches and wore purple in honor of World Alzheimer’s MonthSenator Velis at the Southwick Senior Center on Tuesday for their “Tuesday Talks with Elected Officials”Adjournment order for Martin J. Dunn of Holyoke, Senate Session 9/17/2020
I hope you all had a great week, and were able to enjoy the long weekend a little bit. I have some updates regarding unemployment assistance, COVID-19 testing, and some events from this week, but first I want to acknowledge the 19th anniversary of 9/11 this past Friday.
September 11th, 2001, will forever be engrained in my mind, as I remember all those that lost their lives that day, including those from our own Westfield community; Brian Murphy, Tara Shea Creamer and Daniel Trant. The atrocious terrorist acts of 9/11 changed our country forever. Through tragic loss, we saw how truly selfless and brave our first responders were, as they ran towards danger that morning and not away from it. And we saw the courage of all Americans in the days following. We must always stand together against acts of evil and hate, and never forget the day we lost so many. I spent Friday morning with the Westfield Fire Department for their annual ceremony of reflection and remembrance in honor of first responders. I then joined other elected officials and the families of Westfield Natives who fell victim to the attacks for a Wreath laying at the 9/11 Monument on North Elm Street.
Two years ago, while I was deployed in Afghanistan, I participated in a 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Kabul, not far from where the attacks were planned. Soldiers and marines of all ages gathered, and all understood the importance and meaning of why we were there. It was one of the most moving experiences I can remember. To see some of the younger soldiers have tears in their eyes for events that occurred before they were alive, or when they were just a very young child, is something that I will never forget. To this day we still have men and women in harms way in Afghanistan and elsewhere, and we must never forget their sacrifices and service as well.
Senator Velis speaking at the 9/11 ceremony in Westfield
A few weeks ago, Massachusetts was approved for grant funding to pay an additional weekly unemployment benefit to claimants under the Federal Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) program for the 3 weeks ending 8/1, 8/8, and 8/15. I am now happy to report that we have also been approved for the weeks ending 8/22, and 8/29! An additional application for a 6th week of 9/5 is currently being reviewed as well. While we are still waiting on a long-term package from the Federal Government, this funding will provide $300 a week to those who were eligible. No action is needed, and payments are expected to be in claimants bank accounts around 9/15/2020.
The State’s Stop-The-Spread COVID-19 testing has been expanded in Holyoke. In addition to testing at Holyoke Community College, free testing is now offered at Holyoke Veterans Benefits Dept., in the parking lot across from 310 Appleton St. Walkup testing is available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 2-6PM. You may contact 413-322-5595 with questions.
On Monday, I went over to Springfield City Hall for a rally put on by the Western mass affiliate of the AFL-CIO. The action was part of a statewide Labor Day mobilization that demanded a recovery to our economy that works for the working class. I was proud to stand with so many union members, and was joined by co-legislators Rep. Aaron Vega, Sen. Jo Comerford, and Sen. Elect Adam Gomez. We need to make sure our economic recovery focuses on the working class, those who have been contributing and providing for our communities since day one.
Tuesday morning began with a meeting with Western Mass Housing First, where my staff and I received an update on Homelessness in Western Mass. Later that day I went over to the Easthampton Community Center for a tour. The community center has provided food, including fresh vegetables, to so many community members prior to COVID-19, but has really stepped up during this pandemic. I wrapped up my day by having an extensive zoom meeting discussion with constituents. I always want to hear what’s on peoples minds, and speaking directly with constituents is my favorite part of the job!
On Wednesday morning, I drove over to Easthampton to meet with Chief Norris and the Easthampton Fire Department. They showed me their operation, and even took me up in the 100 foot ladder truck! After this, I headed over to the Holyoke Senior Center to help hand out some Grab and Go Lunches to constituents. Later that afternoon I had a very informative meeting with Holyoke City Councilor Terry Murphy regarding housing subsidies. I want to highlight Caden, a sophomore at WHS who shadowed me for part of Wednesday. Caden was enthusiastic and very helpful, and it was great to have him along. I can’t wait to see what he goes on to do!
Senator Velis with the Easthampton Fire Department on Wednesday
Thursday was a day full of meetings for me! I met with Westfield City Councilor Kristen Mello to receive a PFAS update and discuss some possible legislative options moving forward. Afterwards, staff and I joined the Hilltown Domestic Violence Task Force for their monthly meeting, where I found out more about their work. In the later afternoon, I had a meeting with some of the leadership team at Providence Behavioral Health, where we discussed the different services they provided and how they are transitioning during this time. I wrapped up my afternoon with a Zoom Forum hosted by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Payette (the architecture firm tapped for the Holyoke Soldiers Home project). The firm is still in the initial planning phase of the project, and I shared a lot of input on what I’ve been hearing from residents, families, and staff about how they want the new home to look. I think it’s crucial that this project accounts for those who will be relying on the Home in the future, and understands the needs of the next generation of Veterans, so that we have a facility that is sustainable for years to come.
Later Friday afternoon, I joined One Holyoke CDC and the Food Bank of Western Mass to help out with some food distribution and census collection efforts. I finished my day by helping out at a Drive-In Movie showing in Southwick that is helping the Southwick Civic Fund and the Wick 338 fundraise for a future Veteran’s memorial.
As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or by phone: (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com.
September 11, 2020 – MassLive – Manon L. Mirabelli, Photos by Leon Nguyen
Nineteen years ago, three Westfield natives were among those killed in the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York, and their hometown remembered them Friday in an annual ceremony at the memorial erected in their honor.
The 9/11 Memorial Park is dedicated to Westfield natives Tara Shea-Creamer, Brian Murphy, and Daniel Trant, who died in the attacks launched on Sept. 11, 2001. Shea-Creamer was a passenger aboard American Airlines Flight 11, the first of two planes to crash into World Trade Center towers in New York, while Murphy and Trant were at work in the World Trade Center.
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The ceremony was led by Mayor Donald F. Humason Jr., and included speakers U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, D-Springfield, and state Sen. John Velis, D-Westfield, all of whom spoke of the need to never forget 9/11, the nearly 3,000 lives that were lost that day, and the resiliency of our country.
Velis said it is critical for the citizens of Westfield and the rest of the country to always remember the importance of 9/11, which left a profound effect on world affairs to this day.
“Here in Westfield we don’t forget the day that changed America forever,” he said. “I wonder if the cowards who are to blame anticipated that 19 years later we’d still be here today.”
This past week marked 100 days since I was sworn in as the State Senator for the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire district. In reflecting back on these past months, I am grateful for the relationships I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the work we’ve already been able to accomplish, and I wanted to share some of these reflections with you all today.
Going from the State Representative for one city to the State Senator for 11 different communities is a huge change, and I have dedicated plenty of time to engaging with our district.
From Town meetings in Russell, Southampton and Tolland, to Selectboard meetings in Montgomery and Southwick, to one-one meetings with the Mayors of Agawam, Easthampton, and Holyoke, it is so important to me to me with the local officials in the communities I represent. I want to learn about all the different needs that my constituents face, and this has been a priority from day one.
I’ve met with community organizations and businesses in every town and city, and learned how I can best support them. I’ve met with law enforcement, fire departments, and health officials all over to better understand the challenges they face. I’ve met school administrators, teachers, and parents as we begin the new school year. And I’ve spent time helping out at Senior Centers, Food Pantries, Boys and Girls Clubs, and other non-profits throughout the district. Overall, I’ve tried to be as accessible as possible to my constituents, and had in-person and virtual meetings to talk about what’s on people’s minds and find out how I can help. Through all these experiences, I’ve begun to build relationships that will serve me and our district well.
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected so many people, and it is undeniable that much of my work so far has been on helping communities and residents get the help they need right now. Whether it be assisting constituents with their access to unemployment benefits, sharing information about testing locations, or providing residents with food resources during this time, my office has done whatever it can to assist during these times. My staff and I are always here to help, no matter what the issue, and I’m proud that we have assisted over 100 constituents who were experiencing difficulties with State agencies since my time in office.
As far as committee work, I quickly received a leading seat on the Joint Committee on Labor & Workforce Development, where I am assistant Vice-Chair. I also currently sit on the Economic Development & Emerging Technologies Committee and the Mental Health, Substance Use & Recovery Committee.
The Senate has worked on many important bills during this time, and I’m proud to have been a part:
Health Care Legislation
The Senate has made major commitments to increasing access to health care during these difficult times, and one of my first votes was for the Patients First Act. This legislation builds on vital lessons learned during the COVID-19 public health crisis. This bill makes tele-health services permanently available, protects patients by ending the unfair practice of surprise billing, and requires healthcare providers to notify patients of a healthcare provider’s network status before non-emergency procedures. We’ve also empowered patients and providers by passing An Act Relative to Step Therapy and Patient Safety at the end of July. This legislation limits the use of step therapy, or ‘fail-first’ protocols, that often direct patients to less expensive medications rather than those more suitable to treat their condition. We’ve committed to protecting maternal health through licensing midwives, and created commissions to study racial inequalities in maternal health outcomes and perinatal substance use treatment. We’ve improved treatment of and care for stroke patients, by directing the Department of Public Health to annually review protocols to ensure stroke patients are transported to care facilities best equipped to treat them.
EducationLegislation
We’ve also passed important education legislation during this time, including the Breakfast After the Bell Act that my colleague and friend Rep. Aaron Vega has worked so hard on. This legislation fights childhood hunger, by requiring all public K‑12 schools with 60% or more students eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the federal National School Lunch Program to offer breakfast after the instructional day begins. Improved student nutrition helps students succeed in the classroom, and research shows that programs that begin after the start of the day are much more successful in encouraging students to eat breakfast at school. We’ve also expanded higher education opportunities for people with disabilities by removing existing barriers for students with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders or other developmental disabilities so they can attend public institutions of higher education.
Funding Legislation
The State has passed strong Chapter 70 and Chapter 90 funding legislation for our communities during this time. An Act financing improvements to municipal roads and bridges was signed into law on July 2, 2020, and provides municipalities with vital funding for roads, bridges and infrastructure through Chapter 90 funding. It authorizes $1.5 billion for federally supported highway projects and a further $220 million for rail projects around the state
The State has also ensuredstability for municipalities and schools as the COVID-19 crisis continues through a local aid and funding agreement for fiscal year 2021. The agreement commits to level funding for Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) for cities and towns. It also provides a $107 million increase over fiscal year 2020 in education aid that guarantees level funding for all districts and provide increases necessary to ensure that all districts meet their foundation budget.
COVID-19 Relief Legislation
As COVID-19 has changed our lives, it has pushed the legislature to change laws to help citizens and businesses adapt. The legislature has responded to these changes, and has passed bills extending the state income tax filing deadline, addressing disruptions in municipal tax collections, and allowing licensed restaurants more flexibility to sell alcoholic beverages with food take-out and delivery orders.
The Senate has passed also several major relief bills during these months, including the Endure Act and the COVID-19 Supplemental Budget. The Endure Act authorizes $455 million to communities to aid small businesses and workers, and stimulate economic development. Among other things, it includes $20 million for small business grants, $20 million for restaurants impacted by COVID-19, and $15 million for community college workforce programs. This legislation will provide major relief and support to our economy as we begin to recover from the financial consequences of COVID-19. The Supplemental Budget, which was recently signed into law by Governor Baker, is in direct response to COVID-19, and takes advantage of federal aid that Massachusetts will be receiving. It provides much needed aid to our State to combat this pandemic, including $350 million for PPE and $30 million for community health centers. Included in the final bill was my first piece of Senate legislation, an amendment earmarking $250,000in funds for the Holyoke Soldiers Home.
Holyoke Soldiers Home
I’m extremely proud that my first Senate filing was to secure funds for the Soldiers Home. As a veteran, I spent plenty of time at the Home before these tragedies, and as the Senator now representing the Home, I have made advocating for the facility and its residents one of my top priorities. One of the very first things I did was to reach out to the families of those who lost loved ones and hold listening sessions for them to speak directly to me. Their stories are heartbreaking, and have pushed me to work tirelessly to make sure that what happened can never happen again. My staff and I are on weekly calls with the Executive Office of Health and Human Services and the staff at the Home where I receive updates on residents and current testing numbers. In addition to listening sessions with families, I have worked alongside community stakeholders and advocates, and had conversations with the Department of Veterans Services and the Governors administration on how to improve the Home and its funding.
Some of you may know that I was also named to the Legislature’s Oversight Committee that will be making recommendations for how the Home should look moving forward. Currently, the architecture firm Payette has been tasked with creating a needs assessment of the facility. The firm has experience with the Soldiers Home, and with VA design requirements. During this work, it is critical that Payette fully engages with all stakeholders, and takes into account both the immediate and long-term needs of the Home. The next generation of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan, of which the fastest growing group is women, will rely on the Home for years to come. They will have different needs, and we need the Home to adapt to provide the necessary accommodations, including mental health and substance abuse resources. It is crucial that this future generation is taken into account so that the Home can be sustainable in the long-run.
Advocating for the District
I’ve also been proud to advocate for our district in the Senate in a number of different ways. In recent Bond Bills, I have pushed for infrastructure upgrades to Public Safety Departments, and increased funding for our communities. In these bond bills, I have had numerous amendments adopted, including $450,000 for Broadband Expansion in Granville, Montgomery, Tolland and Russell, and $7.5 million for transportation projects across our district. While bond bills still have to be authorized by the Governor, I am proud to advocate for projects that will improve the quality of life in our district whenever possible. I have called for increased COVID-19 testing capabilities for our communities alongside my Western Mass Colleagues, and am glad that State testing is now available at no cost in Agawam and Holyoke. I still hope to see more testing expanded to Hampshire County, and recently signed onto a letter urging for just that alongside legislators from the County.
Being in the Senate is a change from the House, and I’ve learned a lot in these few months. One thing that has not changed though, is my duty to you all. I am looking forward to continuing my legislative work, to continuing my outreach to the communities I serve, and to continuing to advocate for the needs of all my constituents.
Be safe, and stay well.
John C. Velis
Senator John Velis being sworn in by Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito at the end of May
Senator Velis at a standout for the Holyoke Soldiers Home in June
Senator Velis at Holyoke Boys and Girls Club in July
Senator Velis during a Senate Debate in July
Senator Velis meeting with constituents in Russell in August
I feel like I was all over the district this week for different events and meetings, both in-person and virtually, as I continue to hear from people in our communities. COVID-19 has affected our lives in so many different ways, and the economic and public health challenges we face moving forward are clear. One area that I don’t think is being talked about enough is the effect this pandemic has had on mental health and those struggling with substance use disorders. These are issues we cannot ignore, and I believe this pandemic has put even more pressure on those struggling with mental health and addiction. That is why in the coming weeks, I will be putting together a group of relevant stakeholders and health experts, to hold conversations about these issues and discuss how we can help those struggling in our communities moving forward. If you are interested in participating, please reach out to me.
I began my Monday by having a meeting over phone with Lynn Clark, the Superintendent of Schools in Chicopee. Chicopee will begin school in a hybrid model starting on September 15th, and we will be monitoring all school systems in our district as the year begins. Shortly after this call, my staff and I had a very informative meeting with the MassDOT Highway Division. We went over a number of projects that are being planned around our district, including the Route 10/202 (Southwick Rd.) bridge replacement project in Westfield. This project will realign Southwick Rd/South Maple St. to provide a softer curve and improve the intersections of City View and Mill, and will include Northbound left turn lanes and buffered bike lines. I will keep pushing for these projects in our district that will greatly improve quality of life for our residents. I wrapped up my Monday by having a meeting with ROCA, a non-profit organization that focuses on helping high-risk young men and young mothers in our communities through a 4 year intervention model. They focus on outreach and building relationships with young people, and help them get the resources they need to maintain jobs and stay out of dangerous situations.
Tuesday morning I headed over to the 104th Fighter Wing to meet with Mayor Humason and Wing Commander Col. William T. Bladen. As the third largest employer for our local economy I look forward to these continued conversations, as it is vital we keep our jobs growing. Later Tuesday afternoon, I had a meeting with John Bowen of the Westfield Planning Board, where a lot of our focus was on the Westfield Bike and Levee Project.
Wednesday was all Agawam! I began the day by having a meeting with the Agawam Housing Authority, where I learned more about the different residencies in Agawam and all the different resources they provide. I then joined the Agawam Council on Aging at the Senior Center to pass out lunches to constituents who came by. Later that afternoon, I had an introductory meeting with Peter Carmichael from Six Flags New England about the current state of affairs for the park and how their employees are doing, many of whom reside in Agawam and all over our district.
I began Thursday morning with some coffee with constituents at Circuit Coffee in Westfield. Speaking directly to constituents, and hearing what is on their mind is my favorite part of the job, and I pride my office on being as accessible as possible to you all. Shortly after, I headed over to Easthampton to tour and talk to some local businesses alongside City Councilor Owen Zaret. We started off at Tandem Bagel Company, and hit a bunch of businesses on Cottage Street, including Wedge Works Art & Home and The Water’s Fine Goods and Coffee. I fully understand the decimating impact that COVID-19 has had on our economy, and I will continue to talk to small businesses and help wherever I can. I’m grateful to Council Zaret for showing me around, and we stopped by the Easthampton Fire Department to talk with Chief Norris as well. I finished the day in Westfield, where I met with some more constituents, MassDOT, and City Officials to continue to listen in on the conversations surrounding the Westfield Bike and Levee Project.
Friday Morning started with a meeting with Western Mass Housing first, and other local community partners, where we discussed housing and food insecurity issues in our communities. Shortly after this meeting, I joined State Representative Aaron Vega for lunch at the Crave Food Truck in Holyoke. Rep. Vega will be finishing up his time in the legislature this session, and while I will deeply miss our collaboration, I know that our friendship will continue on. Post lunch, Rep. Vega and I met with Damien Cote, Holyoke’s Building Commissioner to discuss building regulations and legislation. I then drove over to Granville, where I was proud to present a Senate Citation to Cooley Buy, and her company for their new business opening! Their new store at 66 Granby Road is a renovation of an old barn, and promotes local artists work such as pottery, woodworking, textiles, and glasswork. I encourage you all to check them out.
While this week was busy traveling across the district, I was able to pause for a moment to pay my respects and express my condolences to the loved ones of two incredible members of the Westfield community that we lost this week, Brian Hoose and John Knapik. Their dedication and advocacy to our community was known far and wide, and they will be greatly missed.
As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or phone: (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com.
Sincerely,
John C. Velis
Senator Velis with Easthampton City Councilor Owen Zaret and Fire Chief NorrisSenator Velis visiting The Water’s Fine Goods & Coffee in EasthamptonCooley & Company, a new store showcasing local artists work at 66 Granby Rd. in GranvilleSenator Velis presenting Cooley Buy of Cooley & Company, with a Senate citation celebrating the opening
