Author: john_velis

Legislature upholds ongoing fiscal responsibility, protects core services, and reinforces the state’s economic foundation in the face of federal uncertainty

(BOSTON—6/30/2025) The Massachusetts Legislature today enacted a $61.01 billion state budget for Fiscal Year 2026, a fiscally responsible plan that protects core services for the state’s most vulnerable residents, maintains critical investments, and positions the Commonwealth to confront the underlying budget challenges that are a result of federal funding uncertainty.

Approved on a bipartisan basis in both chambers, the budget neither raises taxes on residents and businesses nor spends dollars from the state’s stabilization fund—also known as the ‘Rainy Day Fund’—which currently stands at a historic $8.1 billion.

“This budget is a commitment to a more affordable, accessible, and inclusive Commonwealth. It responsibly manages taxpayer dollars while at the same time investing in the areas that matter most to every region of Massachusetts—housing, education, transportation, and protecting residents threatened by federal actions,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “No matter what part of our state you live in, this budget will expand opportunity, reduce everyday costs, and protect the services people rely on. I am deeply grateful to Chair Rodrigues, Vice Chair Comerford, Assistant Vice Chair Feeney, the committee, and all my Senate colleagues and staff for their thoughtful and collaborative work on this budget, as well as Speaker Mariano and our partners in the House who worked to get this done for Massachusetts.”

“This FY26 budget makes key investments that better support Massachusetts students and families, that increase access to affordable health care, and that provide for a safer and more reliable public transportation system – all without raising taxes. In a moment of incredible uncertainty at the federal level, this budget is proof that government can be both fiscally responsible and an agent of good, the kind of government that our residents deserve,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Chairman Michlewitz and my colleagues in the House, as well as our partners in the Senate, for working diligently to craft a budget that delivers for our constituents in a fiscally responsible manner.”

“The Fiscal Year 2026 budget agreement of $61.01 billion reached by the House and Senate supports the Commonwealth’s priorities by making highly impactful and transformative investments in education, transportation, local aid, health and human services, housing, public safety, and other vital areas. Our final figure is a smart reduction of almost $1 billion from the original House 1 number, laying a strong foundation for the many challenges that lie ahead. This budget is centered on the principle of fiscal responsibility, never more important with the continuing economic uncertainty at the federal level,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D–Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “The budget reflects the Legislature’s deep and steadfast commitment towards achieving long-term sustainability while protecting core services for our most vulnerable populations. Thank you to Chair Michlewitz and the conference committee conferees, whose thoughtful input, advocacy, and collaboration resulted in the first on-time budget in 15 years. Thank you to both committee staffs, whose tireless work was largely responsible for producing this budget. Lastly, I would like to offer a heartfelt thank you to Senate President Spilka for placing her trust in me, and for her compassionate and resolute leadership as we work together to rebuild our economy and grow our state’s long-term economic health.”

“This final $61 billion Fiscal Year 2026 conference committee report will better position the Commonwealth for the challenges that lie ahead while also ensuring that we protect the programs that some of our most vulnerable populations rely on the most. Whether it is greater investments into programs like housing stability, food security, or early education the initiatives contained in this budget are a reflection of our shared values,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). “By reinvesting in the people of the Commonwealth we will continue to assist those in need while making our economy more competitive and equitable for years to come. I want to thank Speaker Mariano for his leadership during this budget process, as well as my fellow House conferees, Representative Ferrante and Representative Smola. I also want to thank my counterparts in the Senate, specifically my co-chair Senator Rodrigues, for their partnership in bringing this proposal over the finish line.”

“As federal cuts continue to cause chaos and harm, the Legislature is delivering an on-time budget with record levels of investment in education, transportation, and local aid,” said Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton), Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “This regionally equitable budget supports our people, institutions, and communities at a critical time. Thank you to Senate President Karen Spilka, Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues, fellow conferees, and our teams for this responsive budget.”

“At a time when our partnership with the federal government is uncertain, the Legislature has recommitted to the values that make Massachusetts a leader in the nation, producing a fiscally responsible and balanced budget that meets the moment,” said Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante, Vice Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means (D-Gloucester). “With investments to strengthen public education and promote economic and workforce development, this budget reinforces our long-term competitiveness and works to make sure that Massachusetts remains a place where families and businesses can grow and thrive.”

“I am filled with optimism as I reflect on the outcome of the FY26 Budget conference committee. Through strong bipartisan collaboration, we in the House and Senate reached a consensus that not only addresses current needs but also sets a positive precedent for future partnerships. This final agreement reflects our shared commitment to the people of the Commonwealth and our ability to work together for the greater good” said Senator Patrick M. O’Connor (R-Weymouth), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “The success of the FY26 budget underscores the incredible potential we unlock when we come together across party lines. We’ve made meaningful investments in critical areas, addressing urgent funding gaps and expanding access to higher education. These among other achievements demonstrate that balancing fiscal responsibility with community-focused priorities is not just possible, it is reality when collaboration leads the way. As the Ranking Minority Member of the Senate conferees, I am immensely proud of the cooperation and mutual respect that shaped our discussions.”

“This budget reflects the priorities of our communities and many advocates that have worked to make their voices heard throughout the process. Massachusetts remains focused on making improvements in education, public safety, human services and sending resources to programs that make a difference in the lives of children, families and seniors,” said State Representative Todd Smola, Ranking Member, Committee on Ways and Means (R-Warren). “We are mindful of the challenges that may be ahead, which is why we have settled on a balanced number. In the final analysis, we stay focused and committed to the greatest needs in our state so that we can prosper in the future.”

The Legislature’s final budget increases spending by $3.3 billion over Fiscal Year 2025, with the much of the increase attributed to MassHealth. Aligned with estimated tax revenue growth, the spending plan is based on a consensus tax revenue estimate of $41.214 billion for the coming fiscal year, a 2.25 per cent increase over the current fiscal year’s benchmark. Based on strong Fair Share surtax revenue collections to date, the Legislature’s budget includes $2.4 billion in available Fair Share generated revenues to support education and transportation investments, an increase of $1.1 billion over the last fiscal year.

The Legislature’s budget invests an additional $33 million in the Commonwealth Stabilization Fund. With the addition, the Fund’s balance would reach a historic high of $8.26 billion by the end of FY26. Since 2017, when the Fund’s balance was $1.3 billion, the Legislature has grown the account by 523 per cent as of FY24. 

Fair Share Investments

The Legislature’s budget includes $2.4 billion in Fair Share surtax spending, which is dedicated to  investments in public education and state transportation infrastructure.

Notable Fair Share education investments include:

• $360 million for the Commonwealth Cares for Children (C3) grant program, which is matched with $115 million in funds from the Early Education and Care Operational Grant Fund, for a total investment of $475 million. Despite the loss of federal funds after the COVID pandemic, the Commonwealth has maintained this vital early education program which has lowered costs for families and increased opportunities for teachers in the field.
• $460 million for Student Opportunity Act (SOA) expansion to support the fifth-year implementation of the SOAand provide $150 in minimum per-pupil aid for school districts.
• $180 million for universal free school meals.
• $120 million for MassEducate, the Commonwealth’s universal free community college program, including non-credit tuition funding for those seeking to become emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
• $192 million to provide child care financial assistance to families in need, which is in addition to the $773.7 million funded through general revenue.
• $91.6 million to maintain Department of Children & Families (DCF) and Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) related child care, which is in addition to the $356.5 million funded through general revenue.
• $85 million to maintain financial aid programs for in-state students attending state universities through MASSGrant Plus, which is in addition to the $175.8 million for scholarships funded through general revenue.
• $83 million for child care supports to maintain current capacity and rates of the child care financial assistance program.
• $50 million for school transportation reimbursement costs, which is in addition to $53.7 million funded through general revenue.
• $14 million for the State University SUCCESS Program, providing wraparound supports to students at public state universities.
• $15.5 million for the Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative (CPPI), matching $5 million in general revenue for a total of $20.5 million, to support a pathway to universal pre-kindergarten expansion, including in Gateway Cities and the Summer Step Up program.
• $15 million for early literacy initiatives and programs.
• $8 million for the Reimagining High School Initiative.

Notable Fair Share transportation investments include:

• $470 million in direct investment to support Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operations, including key initiatives like low-income fare relief, water ferry service and the MBTA Academy. Combined with the $535 million in funding from the recently passed Fair Share supplemental budget, the Legislature provides $1 billion in new investments in FY26 for operational improvements and transportation infrastructure upgrades across the MBTA system.
• $120 million to support Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) across the state. Together with resources from the General Fund, the bill provides a record $214 million for RTAs.  
• $71.8 million for debt service for expanded new bond capacity for the Commonwealth Transportation Fund (CTF) for essential transportation projects across the Commonwealth.
• $55 million in operating support for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT).

Education

The Legislature’s FY26 budget supports students of all ages by maintaining investments in public education at every level. The budget fully funds the fifth year of the Student Opportunity Act, provides a historic funding commitment to the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), and stands with public and private institutions of higher education at a volatile time.

With a $1.7 billion total investment in early education and care, the Legislature is building on last year’s investments in early education, which supported the sector’s workforce, protected programming, and maintained access to affordable care for families facing economic pressures.

Notable education funding includes:

• $475 million for the C3 operational grant program, supporting critical operational and workforce initiatives across the early education sector for the third year in a row. 
• $517.6 million for income-eligible child care, including $100.4 million in Fair Share resources.
• $448.2 million for Department of Children & Families (DCF) and Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) related child care, providing critical services for families eligible for subsidized care, including $91.6 million in Fair Share resources.
• $83 million for child care supports to maintain the current capacity and rates of the child care financial assistance program.
• $45.4 million for EEC quality improvement initiatives.
• $20.5 million for the Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative to maintain access to universal pre-kindergarten and preschool opportunities in underserved areas.
• $20 million for Childcare Resource and Referral Centers to support parents, child care providers, employers, and community groups in navigating the state’s early education and care landscape.
• $20 million for grants to Head Start programs to promote school readiness for young children in low-income households.
• $5 million for grants to early education and care providers for childhood mental health consultation services.
• $1 million to continue a public-private pilot program with employers to create new child care seats.

To support schools across the state, the Legislature follows through on the commitment to fully fund and implement the Student Opportunity Act by Fiscal Year 2027 and invests $7.36 billion in Chapter 70 state aid to public schools, an increase of $460 million over FY25. Further, the budget increases minimum Chapter 70 aid to $150 per pupil.

Recognizing the continued fiscal challenges faced by cities, towns and school districts as we near full implementation of the SOA, the budget directs the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to study components of the state’s K-12 school funding formula related to local contribution requirements. DESE would be required to hold four public hearings in different regions of Massachusetts before reporting back to the Legislature by June 30, 2026.

For the second consecutive year, the Legislature fully funds, at $120 million in FY26, MassEducate, the Commonwealth’s universal free community college program that became law in last year’s budget. By again delivering free tuition and fees for residents, the FY26 proposal continues its support for this vital initiative that expands economic opportunity in a regionally equitable manner across the Commonwealth.

Other education investments include:

• $484.9 million for the Special Education (SPED) Circuit Breaker, in addition to the $190 million included in the Fair Share supplemental budget recently signed into law. Together with Fair Share supplemental funding, the Legislature’s FY26 budget fulfills the promise of 75 per cent reimbursement for eligible tuition and transportation costs, recommending $674 million in total to reimburse school districts for the cost of educating students with disabilities.
• $199 million for charter school reimbursements.
• $260.8 million for scholarships to students, including $85 million in Fair Share resources to expand MASSGrant Plus financial aid support for students attending public institutions.
• $103.7 million to reimburse school districts for regional school transportation costs, including $53.7 million in General Fund resources.
• $30 million for higher education wraparound services, including $16 million in General Fund resources, to support services for students attending community colleges through MassEducate, and $14 million in Fair Share resources to support wraparound services for students attending state universities.
• $12 million for rural school aid support.
• $14.3 million for early college programs and $13.1 million for dual enrollment, along with $8 million for Reimagining High School to empower high school students to take college courses prior to graduation.
• $5 million to support continued implementation of the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Higher Education law, including $3 million for grants offered through the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment initiative to help high school students with intellectual disabilities aged 18–22 access higher education opportunities; and $2 million for the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Trust Fund.
• $3 million for the Genocide Education Trust Fund to continue the state’s commitment to educate middle and high school students on the history of genocide.
• $2.5 million for the Civics Education Trust Fund to maintain and support a statewide civic infrastructure, provide professional development to teachers, and ensure that every student can access high quality civics education.
• $1 million for Hate Crimes Prevention Grantsto support education and prevention of hate crimes and incidences of bias in public schools. 

Community Support

Highlighting the Legislature’s longstanding commitment to sustainable partnerships between the state and local governments, the budget agreement provides significant resources to support all Massachusetts cities and towns, ensuring that the state can meet the needs of every region, city, and town—and leave no corner of the Commonwealth behind.

The proposal includes $1.323 billion in funding for Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA), the primary source of direct flexible state aid to Massachusetts towns and cities, an increase of $14.4 million over FY25. UGGA funding supports resources for municipalities as they collectively confront increased fiscal constraints at the local level.

In addition to traditional sources of local aid, the Legislature’s FY26 budget also increases payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) for state-owned land to $54.5 million. PILOT funding provides a supplemental source of local aid for cities and towns working to protect and improve essential services and programs.

Other local investments include:

• $209 million for regional public transportation systems, including $115 million from Fair Share funds to maintain and continue expansions to regional bus service, sustain systemwide fare free transit service, and support RTA commuter operations.
• $115.6 million for local housing authorities.
• $52.4 million for libraries, including $19 million for regional library local aid, $20 million for municipal libraries and $6.2 million for technology and automated resource networks.
• $30.8 million in grants to Councils on Aging, increasing assistance per elder to $16 from $15 in FY25.
• $27 million for the Massachusetts Cultural Council to support local arts, culture, and creative economic initiatives.
• $5 million to implement an immigration legal services program distributed by the office for refugees and immigrants to designated non-profit organizations to increase access to legal representation, advice, and advocacy for immigrants and refugees who are facing enhanced legal threats from the federal government.

The FY26 budget codifies fare-free RTA service, which will require all RTAs to eliminate passenger fares for fixed routes and ADA-required paratransit service. With this measure, the Legislature continues to prioritize regional equity, support RTAs as an essential public service that connects communities, and provide a crucial connection for commuters, students, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Health, Mental Health, and Family Care

The Senate’s FY26 budget funds MassHealth at $22.1 billion, an increase of over $2 billion over the last fiscal year. As the largest cost driver in the state’s budget, MassHealth alone accounts for 62 per cent of the total spending increase over the FY25 budget. Amid ongoing uncertainty in Washington, this budget maintains access to comprehensive health care coverage for over 2 million Massachusetts residents. MassHealth covers affordable, accessible, and comprehensive health care services for more than one in four residents, nearly half of all children, and seven out of every ten nursing facility residents.

Other health investments include:

• $3.26 billion for a range of services and focused support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including $2 billion for community residential services and $287 million for the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Community Day and Work program.
• $1.82 billion to support the Personal Care Attendant program and its historic collective bargaining agreement which raised the wage scale to $25 per hour.
• $694 million for adult support services, including $19 million to support jail diversion initiatives to better serve individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders and connect them with appropriate treatment.
• $650.1 million for nursing facility Medicaid rates, including $25 million in additional base rate payments to maintain competitive wages in the Commonwealth’s nursing facility workforce.
• $381 million for Department of Mental Health (DMH) hospital and community-based services, including $4.8 million to fully fund the operation of the Pocasset Mental Health Center.
• $237.7 million for Department of Public Health (DPH) hospital operations, including $31 million to fully fund and maintain operations of the Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children through the duration of FY26.
• $187.1 million for the Bureau of Substance Abuse Services (BSAS), including $500 thousand in new funding to develop the state’s recovery coach workforce, which will support key initiatives from last session’s Substance Use Disorder and Recovery Coach Licensure Act.
• $132 million for children’s mental health services.
• $102 million for nursing facility enhanced Medicaid rates to begin implementation of the 2024 Long-Term Care Act, including $25 million to support the nursing home workforce.
• $73.1 million for domestic violence prevention services.
• $39.3 million for Early Intervention (EI) services, maintaining necessary support and services for infants and young toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities.
• $35 million for Family Resource Centers (FRCs) to maintain mental health resources available to families.
• $26.5 million for family and adolescent health, including $11.2 million for comprehensive family planning services and $6.7 million to enhance federal Title X family planning funding.
• $22.7 million for school-based health programming and services, including $3 million for school-based mental health services.
• $14.3 million for suicide prevention and intervention, with an additional $1.8 million for Samaritans Inc. and $1.1 million for the Call2Talk suicide prevention hotline. This investment protects and fully funds 9-8-8, the 24/7 suicide and crisis lifeline.
• $14.7 million for maternal and child health, including $10.8 million for pediatric palliative care services for terminally ill children and a policy adjustment to ensure that children up to age 22 can continue to be served through the program.
• $12.75 million for Meals on Wheels and other nutrition programs for seniors.
• $9.3 million for community health centers, including $1 million for gender affirming care services.
• $5.5 million for children advocacy centers to maintain critical support available to children that have been neglected or sexually abused.
• $5.5 million for the Office of the Child Advocate.
• $3.75 million for the Massachusetts Center on Child Wellbeing and Trauma.
• $3 million for Social Emotional Learning (SEL) grants to bolster social emotional learning support for K-12 students.
• $2.5 million for clinical care, veterans’ mental and behavioral health issues, including post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, substance use disorder and suicide prevention administered by the Massachusetts General Hospital Home Base Program.
• $2 million for grants for improvements in reproductive health access, infrastructure, and safety.
• $1.25 million for the Young Mothers Experiencing Acute Trauma Pilot Program, a behavioral intervention program that works to stabilize and support young women, most of whom are mothers, who are traumatized survivors of abuse and neglect.
• $150,000 for Reproductive Equity Now Foundation, Inc. to operate a free and confidential abortion legal hotline for Massachusetts-based health care providers and helpers, as well as patients obtaining care in-state.

The budget establishes a legislative commission to study the future of the Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children, including a review of the hospital’s finances and programs.

To help residents manage high prescription drug costs, the budget also extends the right of consumers to use coupons to pay for prescription drugs. The provision is extended through 2031.

Additionally, it requires the Department of Public Health to form a strategic task force to prepare recommendations for the continuity of abortion and abortion-related care in the Commonwealth in the event of the federal government ending support for reproductive care. 

Expanding and Protecting Opportunities

The Legislature is committed to expanding opportunity and supporting the state’s most vulnerable residents. This budget therefore maintains the annualchild’s clothing allowance, providing $500 per child for eligible families to buy clothes for the upcoming school year. The budget also fully annualizes the FY25 10 per cent increase to Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) and Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC) benefit levels to help families move out of deep poverty. Additionally, the budget ensures that pregnant women can access TAFDC, regardless of where they are in their pregnancy.

The Legislature’s budget dedicates $86 million to support food security and child nutrition initiatives, including $50.5 million forEmergency Food Assistance to assist residents in navigating the historical levels of food insecurity, $20.1 million for theHealthy Incentives Program (HIP) to ensure access to healthy food options, and $15.5 million for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program.

Economic opportunity investments include:

• $467 million for Transitional Assistance to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) and $209 million for Emergency Aid to Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC) to provide the necessary support as caseloads increase, which annualizes the deep poverty increases implemented in the FY25 budget.
• $101.3 million for DTA caseworkers to protect access to crucial financial assistance, food support, and employment and training programs for some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.
• $58.9 million for adult basic education services to improve access to skills necessary to join the workforce.
• $50.5 million for the Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program.
• $20.1 million for the Healthy Incentives Program to support healthy food access for households in need.
• $20.6 million for employment services programs to help people with lower incomes move toward economic independence through pathways of self-sufficiency.
• $15.5 million for the Women, Infants, and Children Nutrition Program.
• $5 million for the Secure Jobs Connect Program, providing job placement resources and assistance for homeless individuals.
• $3.1 million for theInnovation Pathways programto continue to connect students to training and post-secondary opportunities with a focus on STEM fields.
• $1 million for employment programs for young adults with disabilities.

Housing

As the state envisions a more fiscally sustainable path for its future, increasing affordable housing opportunities and addressing housing challenges remain at the forefront of the Legislature’s agenda. This budget therefore invests more than $1.15 billion in housing initiatives, dedicating resources for housing stability, residential assistance, emergency shelter services, and homelessness assistance programs. 

Housing investments include:

• $253 million for the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP).
• $207 million for Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT).
• $115.6 million for local housing authorities.
• $113.3 million for assistance for homeless individual shelters.
• $57.3 million for the HomeBASE program to support sustainable exits from shelter.
• $19.5 million for the Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP), providing rental assistance to people with disabilities.
• $18.2 million for homeless program administration to move people from the Emergency Assistance shelter system.
• $16 million for the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.
• $10.6 million for assistance for unaccompanied homeless youth.
• $10 million for sponsor-based supportive permanent housing to support 16 new housing units and case management services for vulnerable individuals.
• $8.9 million for the Home and Healthy for Good re-housing and supportive services program, including funding to support homeless LGBTQ youth.
• $6.5 million for resident service coordinators to help residents maintain stable tenancies at local housing authorities, which are required to provide households with the services they need.
• $5.85 million for housing consumer education centers.
• $2.5 million for access to counsel.

In addition to these investments in housing, the budget includes a provision requiring that residential rental broker’s fees must be paid by the contracting agent, often the landlord of an apartment, ensuring that renters are not burdened with unexpected and extraordinary costs.

The budget also kickstarts two studies on ways to bring down housing costs for Massachusetts residents and increase housing production. One study for a sales tax exemption for multifamily housing projects stalled by federal tariffs. Another that would incentivize new affordable housing developments when considering local tax levy requirements.  The budget further creates a commission to help begin to explore solutions to address the remediation of concrete housing foundations that have crumbled because of the presence of pyrrhotite.

Further, the budget includes a provision that will allow candidates for elected office in Massachusetts to use their campaign funds for adult care services being provided to that candidate’s parent or other adult dependent, that occur because of campaign activities. In the 2024 economic development bill, the Legislature approved the use of campaign funds for child care.

Both chambers of the Legislature having voted to enact the legislation, the budget will now be sent to the Governor for her signature.

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(Boston- 6/30/2025) Today the Massachusetts State Legislature sent the final version of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget to Governor Healey’s desk for her consideration. Within the final $61 billion budget, language sponsored by Senator John C. Velis was included that will repeal an archaic state law that currently still restricts gold star spouses from receiving the Commonwealth’s annuity benefit if they remarry later in life. Having passed the Senate during the past two legislative sessions, Velis celebrates the language finally reaching the Governor’s desk.

“It is truly so heartbreaking that the husbands and wives of our nation’s fallen heroes, who have endured such an unimaginable loss, have been told for years that if they end up remarrying that the Commonwealth would no longer recognize their sacrifice,” shared Senator Velis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs. “One of the essential ways we can all honor our fallen heroes is supporting and caring for their loved ones that they left behind, and the annuity is a critical benefit our Commonwealth offers. I am beyond proud that this language has finally made its way to the Governor’s desk following the Senate’s years of steadfast dedication to supporting our Gold-Star families.

A compromise budget having passed the Legislature, the bill now goes to the Governor’s desk for consideration.   

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Hello everyone,

I hope you all had a great week and were able to stay cool despite the high temperatures. If you or a loved one need any assistance locating a nearby cooling shelter this summer, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office for assistance.

This week was quite a busy one out in Boston. To start off the week I had the privilege of Chairing the first public meeting of the Special Legislative Commission on Xylazine. The Commission, which is tasked with studying and making recommendations on ways to address the public health and safety concerns posed by the proliferation of xylazine as an additive to illicit drugs, was established in the omnibus substance use disorder bill that was signed into law last session. This Commission has an important task in front of us, as we continue to see the presence of xylazine grow in our Commonwealth’s drug supply. Last year, xylazine was found in a record-high 34% of lab-tested samples tested statewide. And in 2023, xylazine was found in 9% of opioid-related overdose deaths. I look forward to the work ahead to help prevent overdose deaths and the lifelong health consequences posed by xylazine.

On Tuesday I made my way back out to Boston to participate in the first hearing of the session for the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs. I am incredibly proud to have been reappointed as Chair of this committee again this session. Over the past two sessions this committee has worked tirelessly to pass an astounding amount of legislation to improve the lives of our veterans, service-members, and their families.

This week the Legislature held its annual celebration alongside the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women to recognize the unsung heroes across out state that are making a tremendous impact in our communities. This year I nominated Nora Schmidt of Southampton. Each and every single day Nora Schmidt is making our Commonwealth a better place to live through the kindness and compassion she spreads through her nonprofit organization, Magic for Maddie, in memory of her daughter. Nora has turned this unimaginable loss into a mission that focuses on making an immense and lasting impact on our Western Massachusetts community.  Whether it be through her unwavering support of other families facing a pediatric cancer diagnoses or the example that she sets for each of us through her bravery and compassion in even the most difficult situations. Nora Schimdt is an inspiration for all young girls and women throughout the Commonwealth.  

This week Team Velis hosted office hours in Westfield, Russell, and Southampton. Unfortunately, with the way the calendar fell for next week there will not be any formal office hours however, if you are in need of assistance please do not hesitate to reach out by email, john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone, (413) 572-3920, or to drop into my district office.

Best,

John Velis 

Hello everyone,  

I hope everyone had a great week! As summer officially begins this week, I want to welcome our summer interns to Team Velis, Ali and Brandon, who will helping out my District office for the next few months. Ali is studying at Westfield State University and Brandon at George Washington University. I am very excited to have both joining us and contributing to the team.  

On Monday, Team Velis joined Senators Gomez and Oliveira in Chicopee to celebrate budget funding secured for safety improvements at the intersection of Chicopee Street and McKinstry Avenue. This intersection has long been a safety hazard with multiple obstructed views and reported accidents already occurring this year alone. I am grateful to Senator Gomez for his leadership on this funding, and was glad to collaborate with my legislative partners to help reduce the danger for both drivers and pedestrians in the neighborhood.  

On Tuesday, I testified before the Joint Committee on Education in support of my bill S461, An Act to Protect Children’s Learning, Focus, and Emotional Health During School Hours, which would limit students’ access to their cell phones during school hours so they can focus on what is most important—their education! Giving children a break from the constant use of cell phones will not only help them focus in the classroom, it will also improve their mental health by reducing the anxiety and stress that comes from persistent social media use throughout the day. I am so grateful for those who testified in support of the bill, and I hope to see impactful improvements toward student education and their mental health from the State House this session.  

On Wednesday the Senate passed a supplemental budget that, among other things, provides critical funding to hospitals throughout Western Massachusetts, including Baystate and Holyoke Medical Center. Keeping our hospitals funded is important to ensure that healthcare is accessible here in Western Mass. 

Team Velis was also proud to join two community celebrations this week. The first was the Westfield Women’s Club for their annual tea party, where we presented official Senate citations to this year’s honorees (Rebecca Hart, Melissa Cahalan, and Jillian Battles). The second was celebrating Brandon Cekovsky and presenting him with a Senate citation to mark the achievement of becoming an Eagle Scout. It is always special to meet with the next generation of leaders and see how they have learned the importance of service through scouting.   

This week Team Velis hosted office hours in Easthampton and Holyoke. Next week Team Velis will be hosting office hours on Monday at the Westfield Council on Aging from 12:30pm to 1:30pm, on Tuesday at the Russell Council on Aging from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, and on Wednesday at the Southampton Council on Aging from 9:30am to 10:30am. If you are unable to make office hours, I can always be reached by email, john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone, (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com.   

Best, 

John Velis  

(Boston- 6/17/25) Today, Senator John C. Velis testified before the Joint Committee on Education on his bill to limit students’ access to personal electronic devices, including cell phones, during school hours. The hearing for the Senator’s legislation follows a roundtable held just last week in Agawam focused on youth mental health where Senate President Karen Spilka stated that this topic would be major priority of the Senate ahead of next school year.

The legislation, S.461 An Act to protect children’s learning, focus, and emotional health during school hours, would require local school boards to develop district policies that prohibits access to personal electronic devices and social media during school hours. The legislation provides exceptions, including for students with IEPs (Individualized Education Programs),and also requires that school policies ensure that parents and students are able to contact one another if requested during the school day.

During the hearing, Velis’s legislation received substantial support from leading experts on youth behavioral health, including from Jonathan Haidt, the author of the New York Time’s best seller The Anxious Generation. Haidt and his co-researcher, Zachary Rausch, are considered the foremost experts on how the spread of smartphones and social media have led to a “rewiring” of childhood and a rise in mental illness. Specifically, the two researchers offered written testimony to the Joint Committee on Education noting that Velis’s legislation “meets all the requirements of the model bill we have endorsed.”

“Through many interactions with students and faculty in my district, I’ve had firsthand conversations with students on the many different issues phones cause in our schools,” shared Senator John C. Velis, Chair of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use, and Recovery. “Put simply, our kids need a break during the limited number of hours they are learning in classrooms, not only to help them focus on their education but for their emotional well-being as well. As a leader in education in this country, Massachusetts cannot fall behind by ignoring the problem that cell phones and social media present in our schools.”

Currently 21 other states have passed phone free school mandates, and many others are currently considering similar proposals. Velis shared that he hopes the legislation receives a favorable report from the Committee and is brought before the Senate before the beginning of the new school year in September.

Hello everyone,

I hope you had a great week! With high school graduation season coming to a close, I want to take a moment to congratulate all of the students across our district on this momentous occasion that they undoubtedly worked so hard to achieve. I wish you all the best of luck on wherever life may take you next!

Speaking of celebrations, there’s been quite a few across our district lately. Last Tuesday I had the opportunity to join community members in Agawam as they broke ground on their new high school. I am beyond proud to have helped local officials in securing over $96.8 million in state funding from the Massachusetts School Build Authority last summer to make this project possible.

Later last week I was beyond honored to receive Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award from the Western Massachusetts Council of Scouting America at their annual DCAD Dinner in Holyoke! It is so special to engage with our next generation of leaders and watch as they learn the meaning of service through scouting. I couldn’t be prouder to support this mission and to receive this award in recognition of Sheriff Ashe’s legacy. Thank you to all those who worked diligently to put together such an incredible evening!

This week I had the opportunity to host a roundtable at the Agawam Junior High School with Senate President Karen Spilka. I am incredibly grateful that she took the time to hear directly from those on the ground about the truly game changing work happening right in Agawam to make sure our kids get access to support services when they need them through the MCPAP for Schools Pilot Program. In 2023, I was proud to secure funding in the state budget to create this school-based behavioral health program, which has been piloted in the school districts of Somerville and Agawam over the last year. Through a collaboration between the Boston Children’s Hospital Neighborhood Partnership, the Massachusetts Psychiatry Access Program, and the school districts themselves; the program connects available resources with individual needs through a systemic approach to improve behavioral health support. It is my sincere hope that the MCPAP for Schools program will continue to grow and give more youth across our district and state the same opportunities that our students in Agawam now have.

This week Team Velis hosted office hours in Chicopee and West Springfield.  Next week Team Velis will be hosting office hours on Tuesday at the Easthampton Council on Aging from 10:30am to 11:30am and on Wednesday at the Holyoke Council on Aging from 10:00am to 11:00am. If you are unable to make office hours, I can always be reached by email, john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone, (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com.   

Best,    

John Velis  

Legislature Adopts Resolution Designating 2025 Sales Tax Holiday

(BOSTON—6/12/2025) Saturday, August 9, 2025, and Sunday, August 10, 2025, are the official dates of Massachusetts’ annual sales tax holiday thanks to actions taken by the Massachusetts Legislature today. During the holiday, the state’s 6.25 per cent sales tax is suspended for most retail items priced under $2,500.

A 2018 state law, which made the sales tax holiday permanent, requires the Legislature to vote to set the dates of the holiday each year. Both branches adopted resolutions setting this year’s dates (S.2530 / H.4220), sponsored by Senator Adam Gómez (D-Springfield) and Representative Carole A. Fiola (D-Fall River).

“Lowering costs for Massachusetts residents and supporting local businesses is extremely important for our communities in this time of economic uncertainty,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “I’d like to thank Senator Gómez, my colleagues in the Senate and our partners in the House for their work to set this year’s sales tax holiday.”

“This year’s temporary suspension of the sales tax will bring consumers needed economic relief while boosting revenue for small businesses and retailers,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Chair Fiola and my colleagues in the House, along with our partners in the Senate, for their annual support for this economic development initiative.”

“The sales tax holiday is a wonderful opportunity for our residents to get out into their communities, support local businesses, get their kids ready for school in fall or make a purchase that they’ve been putting off,” said Senator Gómez, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses. “I am glad that our leaders here in the Legislature have been able to work and get this done again for our residents this year, and I look forward to hearing how residents are able to make the most of the tax reprieve.”

“I was proud to sponsor the legislation establishing this year’s sales tax holiday that helps boost our economy and provides support and relief for our residents and small businesses,” said Representative Fiola, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. “This is an important weekend that helps bolster our economy and I applaud my colleagues in passing this legislation to provide individuals, families and businesses across the Commonwealth with some relief.”

A spike in consumer activity routinely boosts indirect tax revenues. According to the Department of Revenue, the 2024 sales tax holiday generated $3.54 million in indirect tax revenues due to increased economic activity.

At a time when consumers are seeing prices on store shelves spike, driven in part by federally imposed tariffs, this year’s Massachusetts sales tax holiday will give shoppers a much-needed break. The holiday also encourages families looking to shop for back-to-school season to support local small businesses and retailers.

Information about eligible purchases is available on the Department of Revenue website.

(6/10/2025- Agawam) Today, Senator John C. Velis hosted a roundtable with Senate President Karen E. Spilka focused on youth mental health in Western Massachusetts. During the roundtable the elected officials had the opportunity to hear personal accounts from students, parents, and faculty about a new innovative school-based behavioral health program launched in Agawam Public Schools, known as MCPAP for Schools, that has improved wait times and access to services. This roundtable comes on the heels of the Senate adopting a $500,000 amendment sponsored by Senator Velis in its’ Fiscal Year 2026 budget to continue and expand the program across the state.

The pilot program, first made possible by an amendment sponsored by Senator Velis back in 2023, is based off of the broader Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Program and aims to improve access to behavioral health support services for youth by connecting available resources with individual needs through a systemic approach. Since first launching in Agawam last year, over 65 students have received services from community and telehealth providers thanks to the program, a 14% increase above the previous year.

“I was inspired by the students we met in Agawam and touched by the stories they shared. Their experiences clearly demonstrate how important programs like the Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Program we discussed today can be life changing, and should be available for all families, regardless of their insurance,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka. “MCPAP is providing on-site, empowering mental health support, and will help us solve the mental health crisis in young people we so desperately need to address. I am deeply grateful to Senator Velis for gathering us together, the parents and students who shared stories, and the educators and leaders in Agawam for hosting us.

“No one has been a bigger champion for access to behavioral health programs than Senate President Spilka. I am incredibly grateful that she took the time today to hear directly from those on the ground about the truly game changing work happening right here in Agawam to make sure our kids get access to support services when they need them,” shared Senator John C. Velis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use, and Recovery. “We know with absolute certainty that gaining access to behavioral treatment early on has lifelong benefits that allow our children to grow into thriving adults. It is my sincere hope that the MCPAP for Schools program will continue to grow and give more youth all across our state the same opportunities that our students in Agawam now have.”

With the amendment to continue funding for the MCPAP for School Program having been adopted by the Senate, it now goes before a conference committee that is working to reconcile differences between the Senate and House budgets.

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Hello everyone,

I hope you all had a great week! With the Senate having passed its budget the week before Memorial Day I was overjoyed to have been able to spend this week connecting with constituents and attending events across our district.

On Monday I had the opportunity to join a number of our district’s thoughtful Memorial Day ceremonies. I kicked off the day bright and early to join community members from Agawam and West Springfield for the annual wreath laying at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge. Later that morning I joined Easthampton for their parade and ceremony followed by a visit to the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery’s annual ceremony before ending my day in Russell. I am so grateful for all those who helped organize these events and the countless other observations of Memorial Day this week to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.

With high school graduations right around the corner I had the opportunity to join Westfield’s Dollar for Scholars annual award night on Tuesday. Congratulations to all the recipients, I have no doubt you all have bright futures ahead of you!

Speaking of graduations, this past Thursday the Westfield Technical Academy Aviation Maintenance program had a special send off for their graduating seniors over at Barnes Municipal Airport. Over the past few years these students have had an incredible high school experience learning how to repair and maintain aircrafts to help prepare them to become FAA certified mechanics following graduation. We are beyond lucky to be one of the very few schools in the country to provide our students with this opportunity and help prepare them for a thriving workforce. Congratulations to all the graduates!

On Thursday evening my good friends from the Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery held a public policy forum right here in Western Massachusetts. As the Senate Chair for the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use, and Recovery I was proud to update all those in our region dedicated to helping those with substance use disorders about legislation before the committee and our monumental substance use disorder bill that was signed into law a few months ago.

This week Team Velis hosted office hours in Russell, and I was thrilled to connect with constituents at our Southampton office hours on Wednesday morning. Next week Team Velis will be hosting office hours on Monday at the Agawam Council on Aging from 11:00am to 12:00pm. If you are unable to make office hours, I can always be reached by email, john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone, (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com.   

Best,    

John Velis