Legislation – Page 3 – Senator John Velis

January 5, 2021January 5, 2021

Legislature Passes Landmark Climate Change Bill

BOSTON (01/04/2021) – The Massachusetts Legislature today passed breakthrough climate legislation that overhauls the state’s climate laws, drives down greenhouse gas emissions, creates clean energy jobs, and protects environmental justice communities.

The bill, An Act Creating a Next-Generation Roadmap for Massachusetts Climate Policy (S.2995), sets a 2050 net-zero greenhouse gas emissions limit, as well as statewide limits every five years; increases the requirements for offshore wind energy procurement bringing the statewide total to 5,600 megawatts; requires emission reduction goals for MassSave, the state’s energy efficiency program; and, for the first time, establishes the criteria in statute that define environmental justice populations. The legislation also increases support for clean energy workforce development programs including those targeting low-income communities and improves gas pipeline safety.

“This legislation takes a historic step in the fight against climate change, putting Massachusetts on the path to creating a cleaner, greener and healthier future for the next generation,” stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “I am thrilled to see this legislation codifies our shared goal of reducing harmful carbon emissions to zero by 2050, and creates new energy initiatives and standards to help us reach that target. I want to thank Senator Barrett, Representative Golden and their fellow conferees for their advocacy and hard work, as well as Speaker Mariano and former Speaker DeLeo for their partnership in seeing this bill through to fruition. I’d also like to note how much the Senate has been inspired to action by the energy and determination demonstrated by the young people of this Commonwealth. Your commitment to protecting our planet is inspiring and I welcome your continued collaboration as we move forward together in addressing our climate crisis.”

“This legislation represents a major piece of climate legislation that will set the course of the Commonwealth for the next three decades,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “Today we send a message loud and clear that Massachusetts will empower our environmental justice communities, achieve net zero emissions by 2050, continue to lead on offshore wind, increase equitable access to our clean energy programs, and create pathways to clean energy jobs for underserved and low-income communities.”

“This bill steps up the pace of our collective drive to contain climate change,” said Senator Mike Barrett (D-Lexington), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy. “It’s the strongest effort of its kind in the country. With the tools the Legislature assembles here, we’re constructing the response we need and providing a blueprint to other states.”

“This is an historic day for Massachusetts. We have long been one of the clean energy leaders in our country, but today, we’ve strengthened the foundation that we have built upon and chart a course that has been long discussed but never codified or fully implemented,” said Senator Patrick O’Connor (R-Weymouth). “Climate policy can’t wait – that’s why this bipartisan legislation sets aggressive and practical goals in the areas of emissions reduction, green energy, environmental justice, and grid modernization. I am proud to have served on this conference committee and thank my colleagues for their hard work and collaborative spirit in crafting this legislation.”

“This historic climate change bill puts forth comprehensive policies to address the urgent climate concerns that our Commonwealth is facing,” said Senator John Velis (D-Westfield). “This legislation takes the general goals we have talked about for so long and implements them through specific and tangible action items. I am grateful to all the constituents and advocates who have reached out to me throughout this entire process.”

The legislation includes, among other items, the following provisions.

Sets a statewide net zero limit on greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and mandates emissions limits every five years, as well as limits for specific sectors of the economy, including transportation and buildings.
Codifies environmental justice provisions into Massachusetts law, defining environmental justice populations and providing new tools and protections for affected neighborhoods.
Requires an additional 2,400 megawatts of offshore wind, building on previous legislation action and increases the total to 5,600 megawatts in the Commonwealth.
Directs the Department of Public Utilities (DPU), regulator of the state’s electric and natural gas utilities, to balance priorities going forward: system safety, system security, reliability, affordability, equity, and, significantly,reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Sets appliance energy efficiency standards for a variety of common appliance including plumbing, faucets, computers, and commercial appliances.
Adopts several measures aimed at improves gas pipeline safety, including increased fines for safety violations and regulations related to training and certifying utility contractors.
Increases the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) by 3 percent each year from 2025 – 2029, resulting in 40 percent renewable energy by 2030.
Establishes an opt-in municipal net zero energy stretch code, including a definition of “net zero building.”
Prioritizes equitable access to the state’s solar programs by low-income communities
Establishes $12 million in annual funding for the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center in order to create a pathway to the clean energy industry for environmental justice populations and minority-owned and women-owned businesses.
Provides solar incentives for businesses by exempting them from the net metering cap to allow them to install solar systems on their premises to help offset their electricity use and save money.
Requires utilities to include an explicit value for greenhouse gas reductions when they calculate the cost-effectiveness of an offering of MassSave.
Creates a first-time greenhouse gas emissions standard for municipal lighting plants that requires them to purchase 50 percent non-emitting electricity by 2030 and “net zero” by 2050.
Sets benchmarks for the adoption of clean energy technologies including electric vehicles, charging stations, solar technology, energy storage, heat pumps and anaerobic digestors.

The bill is now with the governor.

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January 4, 2021

Velis hopeful for a better 2021

January 4th, 2020 – The Westfield News – Hope E. Tremblay

WESTFIELD – Like most people, state Sen. John C. Velis is looking forward to focusing on the positive in 2021.

When the clock struck midnight on New Year’s, Velis had one thing to say: “2020 – see ya!”

“I miss people,” he said. “For most politicians, people are the reason you do the job. I love people and cannot wait to get back to seeing everyone in person.”

Velis won the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire District senate seat not once, but twice during the pandemic. Since his first swearing-in in May, Velis has attended every senate session – which were extended through the entire year – virtually.

December 27, 2020December 23, 2020

December 27th, 2020 – Weekly Update

Season’s Greetings everyone!

I hope you and your families are able to enjoy this holiday season while remaining safe as COVID cases are continuing to rise.

The holidays are supposed to be a time where we gather to see family and friends, but as with everything this year, that has sadly become difficult. Following the recent rise in cases, Governor Baker has released new guidelines and restrictions that will take effect this Saturday, December 26th in an effort to slow the spread of this deadly virus. Most importantly, the Governor has reduced gathering sizes and business capacities. Starting today, no more than 10 people are allowed at indoor gatherings and no more than 25 people at outdoor gatherings. I implore everybody to continue to exercise caution this week as we ring in the new year.

On a more positive note, as of Wednesday, almost 200,000 COVID-19 vaccines have arrived in the Commonwealth. Amongst the first recipients of the vaccine will be those at congregate living facilities, like nursing homes, and our brave medical workers on the front lines. While these are positive developments, it is important to remember that we are not in the clear yet and I encourage everyone to remain vigilant.

With the end of the legislative session in sight, this week has been one of our busiest at the state house. This past Wednesday, I was happy to vote on the health care conference committee bill, which requires insurers to permanently reimburse customers for behavioral telehealth appointments at rates they would pay for the same care in person. This cementing of telehealth options in our healthcare system is the first of what I’m sure will be many changes in the way we think about medicine post-COVID. This week I was also afforded the time to celebrate the season with both my colleagues and family, albeit remotely. Along with Mayor Humason and Rep-Elect Pease, I zoomed into WCPC/WSKB 89.5 on Wednesday to spread some holiday cheer to our community.

Sadly, this is a time a year when many are reminded of what they lack and this has only been exacerbated by the pandemic. With the new year looming and the housing courts reopening, many will find themselves in dire housing situations. In response to this, the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation (MLAC) has formed the COVID Eviction Legal Help Project (CEHLP). CEHLP is a group that gives free legal help to low-income tenants and owner-occupants living in 2- or 3-family houses in Massachusetts. To find legal help in your area, go to www.evictionlegalhelp.org or call 2-1-1.

As the new year begins, I’m starting a new tradition: a quarterly newsletter from my office right to your email inbox. This newsletter will include more in-depth information on legislation and what is going on in the State house. If you would like to sign up for the newsletter, head to www.senatorjohnvelis.com/quarterly-newsletter/

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.

Best wishes for a happy holiday season and new year,

John C. Velis

December 21, 2020

December 20th, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,

I hope you all are doing well and staying safe. We had quite a bit of snow this week, and I want to thank all the first responders and public works employees who were on call in our district.

I was lucky enough to begin this past week listening to my good friend Senator Mike Rush sing “The Army Goes Rolling Along” over Zoom. Some of you might remember that me and the Senator, who is also a Lt. Commander in the US Navy Reserves, had a friendly bet on the Army-Navy football game last weekend. Luckily, the outcome was in my favor. In addition to the fun singing, the Senator made a donation to the Holyoke Soldiers Home and I made a donation to the Fisher House of Boston in his district, both great organizations serving our Vets. You can see the recording of the Senator’s performance on my social media, @SenJohnVelis.

On Monday I met with Representative-Elect Pat Duffy via video-chat, who will be the new State Representative for Holyoke starting in January. I also had the honor of speaking with Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou, the Greek Ambassador to the United States. We discussed my recent re-election and other Greek legislators throughout the country.

This past Tuesday, I remotely recorded an interview with Comcast Newsmakers. I went over the recent FY21 budget that the legislature passed and answered questions on my amendments securing funding for the Holyoke Soldiers Home. The interview will be released in the New Year and will be available on YouTube and Comcast on-demand. Later in the day, I had a phenomenal virtual meeting with the Holyoke Rotary Club where we discussed how COVID-19 has affected state finances and in turn how that has impacted municipalities.

During these difficult times it has been incredible to see the ways our community has stepped up to help those struggling, especially those facing food insecurity issues. On Wednesday night, I joined Holyoke community members for the 5^th annual Holyoke Community Dinner Celebration, where we handed out meals and chatted with residents driving through. Friday afternoon I joined the Russell Police Department for their food drive and handed out Christmas Dinner boxes to community members. I’m so grateful for the organizations, sponsors, and volunteers who organized these events!

This week I am also happy to report that Westfield and Chicopee were both selected by MassDOT as grant winners for the Shared Streets and Spaces Program, which provides funds to municipalities to improve public spaces and increase safe mobility. Westfield will be receiving a little more than $225,000 to upgrade and expand existing sidewalks in the City and to improve facilities at adjacent PVTA bus stops. Chicopee will be receiving just above $75,000 to develop a network of mixed-use lanes for pedestrians and cyclists in Chicopee Center.

Sincerely,

John C. Velis

Senator Velis with the Russell Police Department on Friday, 12/18 for the Christmas Food Drive

Senator Velis with the Holyoke Rotary Club on Tuesday, 12/15

December 7, 2020

December 6th, 2020 Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,

I hope you all had a great week and are staying safe and healthy during these difficult times.

It is clear from this week’s data reports that the rate of COVID-19 cases in our communities is rising. Currently Southwick, Chicopee, and Holyoke are designated as red communities, while Westfield, Agawam, and Easthampton are designated as yellow communities. It is imperative that we continue to stay vigilant as we move into these winter months. While news surrounding a vaccine is extremely promising, we are not there yet, and we need to be mindful of the interactions we are having with others.

This past Friday, the Senate and House came to agreement on a final FY2021 budget after differences between the two chambers were worked out in conference committee. I was proud to vote for this final legislation, which provides critical support and investments to our community while remaining fiscally responsible. I am also glad that my amendments providing funding for the Holyoke Soldiers Home, the Holyoke and Westfield Boys & Girls Clubs, Baystate Health and the Agawam Police Department survived the conference process and are included in the final bill. Now the budget will go before the Governor for his consideration.

Tuesday morning I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony of Compass Recovery in Agawam, where I was honored to present them with a Senate citation in recognition of their opening. The treatment center will provide partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient services for those struggling with substance abuse disorders.

On Wednesday I attended the services for Staff Sergeant Mark Johnson, a 2015 graduate of Agawam High School who recently passed away while stationed in Fort Hood, Texas. Sgt. Johnson served as a Squad Leader in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve in Romania and was a recipient of numerous military honors. His service inspires us all, and his passing is a tragic loss for our entire community.

Thursday morning I was in Agawam for the grand opening of Vanguard Renewables’ new Organics Recycling Facility. The recycling facility’s innovative process converts expired and unsafe food waste into renewable energy. Vanguard Renewables is the largest organics recycler in the Northeast and will process nearly 500,000 tons of organic waste into renewables energy in 2021. It was truly incredible to tour the facility and learn more about how this process works firsthand.

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

November 30, 2020

November 29, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,

I hope you all were able to safely celebrate Thanksgiving with your loved ones, whether that be in-person or virtually!

I want to first update you all on the status of the FY2021 budget. As you might remember, last week the Senate passed our final FY2021 budget after two days of debating over 450 amendments. The next step is for the Senate and House to meet in conference committee to resolve differences between the two versions, before sending a finalized budget to the Governor for his consideration. This week the Senate and House each appointed members to the budget conference committee.

I also want to shout out the annual Monte’s March, which took place earlier this week to benefit the Western Massachusetts Food Bank. This two-day, 43 mile walk from Springfield to Greenfield raises awareness and funds to prevent hunger in our region. While the march this year looked different than past years, people really stepped up—the March raised more than $600,000 in donations. These donations will benefit the Food Bank and our communities in countless ways and I’m inspired by everyone who participated or made a donation.

Tuesday morning I had a virtual meeting with constituents from Holyoke to discuss some of the challenges that residents are facing regarding their unemployment benefits and other state resources. As a result, my office is creating some easily accessible information for our communities, both in print and digital forms, on what resources are available to them and how to receive such benefits. In addition my office is always available to assist anyone who is having difficulty with their benefits or unemployment claim.

Tuesday afternoon I met with Pat Beaudry at the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. We discussed a variety of challenges that our communities in the Pioneer Valley are facing, and it was great to get his input. Later on Tuesday, I drove over to MGM Springfield where I had an introductory meeting with President Chris Kelley.

On Wednesday I joined Congressman Neal and community members in Holyoke for the ribbon cutting of Harper’s Haven playground, which is dedicated in memory of Harper Violet, a young Holyoke resident who we tragically lost this past spring. I’m grateful to all the businesses, donors, and community members who pitched in to make this playground come to fruition.

Wednesday afternoon I joined the Forum house in Westfield for their annual Thanksgiving Lunch. It was great to help pass out Thanksgiving meals and talk with residents about how they’re doing. The holidays can be a challenging time for many, and it’s so important that we continue to reach out and provide support to those in our community who are struggling.

Sincerely,

John C. Velis

November 24, 2020

After victory, Velis prepares for first full term in state Senate

November 11, 2020 – The Reminder – Dennis Hackett, Reminder Publishing File Photo

WESTERN MASS. – After securing the Second Hampden and Hampshire District state Senate seat during the Nov. 3 election, state Sen. John Velis discussed his goals and challenges ahead of his first full term in office.

Before getting into anything, Velis said one of his top priorities was helping the area recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“First and foremost has to be COVID-19 recovery; it’s going to be an immediate and all-consuming issue in terms of how we recover. Small business, the hardships people are facing in the Second Hampden and Hampshire District, it’s absolutely critical to advocate for them,” he said.

While the Senate and House are facing difficult budget seasons, Velis said he is going to make sure his constituents have a seat at the table.

“We’re entering a difficult budget season with the House releasing theirs next week and then the state Senate releasing theirs the following week. Every lawmaker is going to be asked to do more with less. I need to zealously advocate for the constituents that elected me to ensure we have a seat at the table,” he said.

One of the ways Velis said he wants to stand out in legislature is by providing a bipartisan voice in the state Senate.

“One thing that is a priority of mine is continuing to be that voice in Massachusetts politics that doesn’t look at things just through the lens of the political party that happens to be next to my name. I think that’s critical to our nation, the healing and the working together,” he said.

November 24, 2020

‘A real commitment… to right this ship:’ State Senate passes $1.4 million in budget increases for Holyoke

November 19, 2020 – MassLive/The Republican – Stephanie Barry

HOLYOKE — The state Senate is working to bring a budget cavalry to the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, passing a $400,000 amendment Wednesday night to finance a new ombudsman’s office and better equipment and services for the long-term care facility ravaged by a COVID-19 outbreak this spring.

State Sen. John Velis, a Westfield Democrat, sponsored an amendment to boost the state-run home’s budget by $200,000 for an ombudsman’s office plus an additional $200,000 for better supplies and services. The measure passed 39-0.

November 24, 2020

Senate budget includes ombudsman for Soldiers’ Home

November 23rd, 2020 – The Daily Hampshire Gazette – Dusty Christensen, GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

HOLYOKE — The state Senate has passed a budget ammendment that would establish an ombudsman’s office at the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke.

In a unanimous vote, the Senate approved the amendment — filed by Sen. John Velis, D-Westfield — that will send an extra $400,000 to the home, which earlier this year experienced a COVID-19 outbreak that resulted in the deaths of at least 76 residents. Half of that money will be used to hire an ombudsman, who is an independent and impartial official who would provide oversight. The other half is for better equipment at the home.

“The beautiful thing about this is they’re independent, they’re impartial and you can really speak to them in confidence,” Velis said Monday, referring to the ombudsman. He said families had gone unheard at the facility previously. “The person who ended up suffering was the resident veteran.”

Veteran advocates and families, including members of the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home Coalition, have been pressing for an impartial ombudsman at the home for a while.

“The families certainly need a mechanism internally to be able to voice concerns, and truly, any health care institution needs a patient advocate,” said John Paradis, a member of the coalition. “It’s long overdue, it’s necessary and I’m hopeful that the state will put a person in there that has the credentials, background and knowledge to truly be able to advocate for the family members and for the veteran residents.”

November 22, 2020November 20, 2020

November 22, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,

This week the Senate unanimously passed our final FY2021 budget after a two-day debate concerning 450 amendments. This $46 billion budget makes important investments in the Commonwealth and local infrastructure, while remaining fiscally responsible during these unprecedented times. I am proud that my amendments allocating funds for local organizations in our district were also adopted during the debate.

On Wednesday the Senate adopted my amendment providing $200,000 for the creation of an ombudsman’s office at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home and $200,000 for increased and improved resources to increase the quality for residents. The ombudsman office will be an independent and confidential resource for residents and families to turn to when issues or concerns with care arise, and will be able to properly investigate problems before they grow. In addition to these amendments, the Senate’s final budget appropriates $25.5 million to the Home’s administrative account, $1.5 million higher than last year’s funding, which will help the Home increase staffing levels and meet other deficiencies. The Senate’s level of commitment to the Home and our Veterans is clear, and these funding investments are powerful steps towards reforming the Home.

On the first day of debate, the Senate adopted two of my other amendments allocating funds to organizations in our district. I was proud to secure $50,000 for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield and another $50,000 for the Boys & Girls Club for Greater Holyoke, both of which have gone above and beyond throughout this pandemic to help those struggling in our communities. I was also glad to see my amendment was adopted to allocate $100,000 to Baystate Health and $50,000 to the Agawam Police Department for their opioid addiction treatment and prevention programs. Problems with opioid addiction and substance use disorders have only gotten worse during COVID-19, and it is critical that we are supporting our hospitals and first responders who work to help those struggling.

One of the real tangible focuses in the Senate’s budget is on helping our economy and local communities recover from the lasting impact of COVID-19. The budget invests $46.4 million for a new Economic Planning and Response Program, which will provide grants and loans to small businesses. The budget also creates and funds programs to educate and train Massachusetts workers for new lines of work, including $40.6 million for adult basic education services and $10 million for the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund to help connect residents to jobs. To aid local communities, the budget appropriates $1.129 billion in unrestricted general government aid to support community investments and help municipalities recover.

The Senate and House will now meet to work out differences between their two different budgets, before a finalized version is sent to the Governor for his consideration.

Although budget debate and work took up almost all of my week, I still had a few events and meetings that I was able to attend. On Monday I spent some time at the Holyoke Boys & Girls Club handing out groceries to community members. Helping those struggling with food insecurity is one of the major ways the Club has stepped during this pandemic, and I was glad to help out. Tuesday morning my staff and I joined in on a call with Western Mass Housing First to talk about their work and how they are adapting with COVID-19 rates back on the rise.

Thursday I joined the Massachusetts Airport Management Association and officials from Barnes Regional to receive updates from the Federal Aviation Association and MassDOT. And on Friday I had my bi-weekly meeting with Holyoke Community College President Royale, where we discussed remote classes and what resources the college has been providing to students.

Sincerely,

John C. Velis