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I hope you are doing well and that you took advantage of the warm weather this week, even though it did not last long! Hopefully Friday’s storm will be the last major snowfall of winter 2022, as I am very much looking forward to the spring and seeing you all out and about in the district.

Unfortunately, Team Velis lost another basketball game on Tuesday. We put in a valiant effort (including 16 points from yours truly), but the Holyoke CYO’s eighth grade basketball team was just too tough an opponent. They were lights-out from the three-point line, rebounded well, but most importantly, they played as a team. Thank you to Officer Soto of the Holyoke Police Department for joining my squad. I greatly appreciate your contributions on the court and in our community. It is so great to see the CYO basketball tradition live on as an outlet for the youth in our communities. Looking forward to our next opponent!

Although we lost on the hardwood in Holyoke, Westfield scored a major win on the runways. I joined Rep. Pease, Mayor McCabe, and Alex Colby at Barnes Regional Airport for the exciting groundbreaking ceremony of Exit 3 Aviation. The ceremony kicked off the construction of three hangars to accommodate up to 15 aircraft and amenities for aviators and staff. This is another great investment in the city of Westfield, and I cannot wait to see this project completed!

In other news regarding Westfield and Barnes Regional Airport, on Wednesday the Restoration Advisory Board met to discuss the latest in cleanup efforts and per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). It is so important that we minimize the harmful impact that waste and artificial substances have on our community and environment. Our Wednesday meeting was very productive, and I look forward to working on this important issue.

This week I also met with current residents of the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home domiciliary. As the dormitory is set to close at the end of March, I wanted to make sure that all residents have safe living accommodations in place prior to departing the facility. I am confident that between my conversations with the residents, and my partnership with state agencies and veterans’ organizations, these veterans will have safe and welcoming new housing.

Office hours will be held next week at the Westfield Senior Center from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

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

(Westfield 2/25/2022) Today, Senator John C. Velis hosted a roundtable for stakeholders involved in animal welfare to discuss current animal cruelty statutes in the Commonwealth and see where improvements could be made. Senator Velis partnered with various Massachusetts animal advocacy groups including the MSPCA, the Animal Rescue League of Boston, The Human Society of the United States, and the Animal League Defense Fund, to host the event, which was attended by district attorneys, law enforcement officials, and animal control officers from throughout Hampden County and Hampshire County.  

“Massachusetts has worked diligently to be a leading state in animal welfare and holding those accountable that inflict harm on these often-helpless creatures,” said Senator Velis. “Today’s roundtable is one step to continue this commitment by working collectively with those actually responding to and investigating reports of animal neglect and abuse. Discussions like this will help us ensure that they have the tools needed to hold individuals accountable for the suffering of any animal in the Commonwealth.” 

“We are pleased to speak with a variety of stakeholders who seek to ensure our animal cruelty laws are working effectively in order to secure the most appropriate outcomes for the cases,” said Lynsey Legier, staff attorney for the MSPCA. “Learning more about how animal cruelty cases are handled across the state and what improvements could be made is a key step to ensuring fair and just outcomes for both the animal victims and for those humans impacted by these cases in the criminal justice system.” 

“The Northwestern District Attorney’s office recognizes that as with most violent crime, animal cruelty often targets the most vulnerable of society. The investigation and prosecution of these crimes can face many challenges and often requires a collaborative effort amongst our partner agencies” explains ADA Erin Aiello, an animal cruelty prosecutor in the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office. “District Attorney David Sullivan and I are thankful to Senator Velis for hosting a round table discussion amongst animal welfare professionals and law enforcement agencies so that with our combined experience we can continue to address these challenges and achieve a fair and just outcome for animal victims in the criminal justice system.” 

In 2021 alone, animal control in the greater Springfield area responded to over 600 reports of animal abuse or neglect. The roundtable’s discussion ranged from the cost of care for of animals held during abuse trials that fall on local animal control to the gaps in existing state law for unintentional neglect of animals. Currently, Massachusetts is one of only two states in the country without a misdemeanor for animal neglect  

Senator Velis and the MSPCA stated that they hope to host similar roundtables in other districts across the Commonwealth. 

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(EASTHAMPTON 3/1/2022) With the recent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding legislation signed into law by Governor Baker, State Senator John C. Velis today presented earmark funding of $2,000,000 to the Treehouse Foundation in Easthampton. Senator Velis secured the funding to assist Treehouse in establishing two additional outcome-based, multi-cultural, Treehouse intergenerational communities in Massachusetts. 

“We are so grateful that the Commonwealth is investing in expansion of the intergenerational Treehouse Community model in Massachusetts. Thanks to Senator Velis’ leadership, more children and youth who experience foster care will be rooted in family” said Treehouse Foundation Founder and Executive Director Judy Cockerton.  

The Treehouse Foundation opened its first location in Easthampton in 2006, offering an intergenerational community experience in their Easthampton Meadows neighborhood. Treehouse Easthampton is a place where adoptive families and their children, older youth, and elders invest in one another’s health, dreams, and futures.  

“Friendship is a big part of what happens with us here” said longtime Treehouse resident Rosa Young. Rosa went on to explain how much being a part of the community means to her. While undergoing chemotherapy she would play scrabble with the children in the community and enjoy baked goods courtesy of her neighbors.  

As Vice Chair of the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities, Senator Velis also touted the tremendous impact that intergenerational community living as on fostered youth as well, “The national high school graduation rate for youth in foster care is 58 percent, while the rate for students who have grown up in Treehouse Easthampton is 95 percent.” said Senator Velis. 

Senator Velis noted that advocating for organizations like Treehouse is a major priority of his as Senator.  

“When I get out and speak to people who are doing great things for our community, I want to support however I can. A big part of my job is going down to Boston, zealously advocating, and securing funds so that folks like Judy Cockerton and the Treehouse Foundation can continue and expand their work.” said Senator Velis. 

Senator Velis was joined by State Representative Daniel Carey, District Attorney David Sullivan, Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle, Treehouse Founder and Director Judy Cockerton, officials from the Treehouse Foundation, and members of the Treehouse community. 

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Hello Everyone, 

What is better than receiving a gift or box of chocolates on Valentine’s Day? How about handmade cards from the students at Roberta Doering Middle School in Agawam?  Those are what our Veterans at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home received earlier this week. Thank you to the students and staff who put these together, I know how much our servicemembers and veterans appreciate receiving notes of love and support like this.  

The Valentine’s Day cards were not the only touching observation of the holiday that I saw in the district. On Monday I met with folks from Donate Life and New England Donor Services at Holyoke City Hall. During their ‘Have a Heart’ celebration we heard stories from transplant patients and family members who have been profoundly impacted by the gift of organ donation. Organ donation is one of the most lifechanging experiences a donor and patient can undergo. Transplant patients receive these organs from either people who have left our world and are making one last act of compassion or living donors who step up and donate to a patient who is eagerly waiting for their new lease on life.  Checking the organ donor box on your driver’s license application could quite literally extend or improve the quality of life for a patient. I was honored to provide citations to both New England Donor Services and the Massachusetts RMV for their tremendous contributions in this area. 

On Tuesday it was my privilege to present a check for twenty-five thousand dollars in ARPA funding to Tapestry Health in Holyoke. The folks at Tapestry are doing life saving work in the fight against opioid addiction and overdose prevention. We all know someone who has directly or indirectly been impacted by addiction, which is why I am so proud to have secured this funding. I look forward to seeing the results of their ongoing efforts. 

Also announced this week, fire departments across the state are due to receive funding totaling $1.8 million to support fire safety programs aimed at educating children and older adults. Many departments in our district are set to receive funding. For example, the city of Agawam will see $5175.00 to support pre-school, kindergarten, and 5^th grade classes teaching fire safety. Another $3055.00 will support presentations at the Agawam senior center, as well as home visits to ensure our seniors are living in fire-safe environments. Statistics show a dramatic drop in child fire death since the inception of The Student Awareness of Fire Safety (S.A.F.E.) program in 1996, these funds will certainly help continue that trend. Thank you to our firefighters for your work in implementing S.A.F.E. 

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  

Hello Everyone! 

Are you ready for some football? It is always an odd feeling watching a Super Bowl absent of the Patriots or Tom Brady, but I suppose an occasional change of pace doesn’t hurt. Good luck to the Cincinnati Bengals and Los Angeles Rams in the big game on Sunday, and I hope you all have your favorite Super Bowl recipes lined up. If you are visiting friends, family, or your favorite local establishment, please plan to have a sober ride home. There is no excuse for drunk driving, and we need to work together to keep each other safe. 

Another busy week in the books! On Tuesday I was honored to be joined by Dr. Peter Friedmann, Chief Research Officer at Baystate Health, on my local cable TV show, “Beacon Hill to The 413”. We had a comprehensive conversation on addiction, medication assisted treatment, and policies that help save lives. This is a topic that is so near and dear to families around Massachusetts and our country, I strongly encourage folks to tune in when they have an opportunity. Episodes of “Beacon Hill to The 413” are archived on my social media channels and website, so feel free to check out the show there! 

This week, the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services launched a survey with the goal of better engagement and support for women Veterans. it comes at a critical moment when women are the fastest growing Veteran demographic. This survey is part of a boarder study to determine how the Commonwealth can better support its women Veterans, and I was proud to secure the funding for this study in the FY’22 budget. This survey can be accessed at https://tinyurl.com/5n6j2ybd Please share with any women Veterans in your networks! 

On Thursday the Senate met in formal session, where we took up and passed S.2651, An Act relative to pharmaceutical access, costs and transparency (PACT Act 2022). This legislation is a multi-pronged approach to obtaining better cost transparency from pharmaceutical companies and ultimately helping alleviate the prices that patients pay for their prescription drugs. Among other things, the bill caps out-of-pocket consumer insulin costs at $25 per 30-day supply. The conflict between obtaining vital prescriptions and the strain on a patient’s bank account must stop, and S.2651 is another positive step in that direction. I was proud to vote in favor of this legislation and look forward to continuing to support it as it moves to the House.  

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   

BOSTON (02/10/2022) – Today, the Massachusetts Senate passed by a vote of 39-1 An Act relative to Pharmaceutical Access, Cost and Transparency (PACT Act 2022), comprehensive pharmaceutical legislation to address the rapidly increasing cost of prescription drugs and to ensure life-saving medications are affordable, fairly priced and accessible for all consumers.    

“Today the Senate again stood up for the individuals and families who, for far too long, have been forced to choose between paying the high costs of life-saving medication or putting food on the table,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “The PACT Act of 2022 gives immediate relief to residents who rely on insulin, while creating a system to evaluate and put in place controls on other prescription drugs. This bill includes necessary industry oversight while giving consumers more decision-making power. Today’s actions are the latest example of the Senate leading on this issue, and I am extremely grateful for the attention and thought that went into creating today’s bill by Senator Cindy Friedman, Chair of the Health Care Financing Committee, Senator Michael Rodrigues, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, and to the rest of my colleagues in the Senate for their strong support.” 

“This legislation moves the Commonwealth one step closer to a system that delivers affordable, high quality, and accessible care for our residents,” said Senator Cindy F. Friedman (D-Arlington), Senate chair of the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing. “The PACT Act 2022 ensures that more consumers can access prescription drugs at a fair price, by capping out-of-pocket insulin costs, providing relief for certain high-cost drugs, improving patient access to medications and pharmacies of their choice, and enhancing transparency and oversight within the pharmaceutical industry. I thank President Spilka, Chair Rodrigues, my colleagues, and the many stakeholders who helped craft this bill, and I am hopeful that this legislation will be signed into law soon.”  

“Today’s passage of the PACT Act 2022 demonstrates the Senate’s commitment to confronting rising prescription drug costs and delivering accessible and affordable health care in the Commonwealth,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Thank you to Senate President Spilka for her leadership, to Senator Friedman and her team for their hard work and collaboration in crafting this bill, and to my colleagues in the Senate for a thoughtful and thorough debate and for voting to improve patient access and enhance oversight within the pharmaceutical industry.” 

Too often, patients cannot access the medications they need due to high prescription drug prices. The PACT Act 2022 contains enhanced accountability tools to address this and other barriers to care. Currently, Massachusetts cannot effectively identify the drugs that have burdensome costs which prevent patients from being able to afford them. These cost barriers also contribute to unaddressed health issues and often worsen conditions. This legislation directs the Health Policy Commission (HPC), in consultation with stakeholders, to establish a process for identifying drug price thresholds that pose a public health risk. In addition, it allows the HPC to recommend pricing measures to increase patient access to necessary medications. Drug manufacturers that fail to comply with this process will be required to pay a fee that will go into a trust fund for a new drug cost assistance program to support patients with certain chronic health conditions that disproportionately impact marginalized communities. 

In a first for Massachusetts, the legislation offers immediate price relief for insulin—a life-sustaining, daily drug for the one in 10 Massachusetts residents living with diabetes, without which they face substantial health risks and complications. Insulin prices have recently risen sharply, resulting in out-of-pocket costs that can reach $1,000 or more per year for patients in high-deductible plans or who are underinsured. This financial burden often forces patients to engage in the dangerous practice of severely limiting or forgoing the use of insulin.  

To address this problem, the PACT Act 2022 limits out-of-pocket spending on insulin by eliminating deductibles and coinsurance, and permanently capping co-pays at $25 per 30-day supply. If the PACT Act 2022 is signed into law, Massachusetts would join 21 other states that cap co-pays for insulin. An amendment adopted by the Senate also directs the Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA), an independent state agency that provides objective analysis of the Massachusetts health care system, to study the feasibility of requiring access to epinephrine injectors for children free from out-of-pocket costs. 

The bill brings oversight to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), who play a major role in how drugs are tiered and priced on insurance plans. PBMs serve as brokers or ‘middle-men’ in the drug transaction process and are not currently subjected to rigorous oversight by the state, making it unclear if PBMs act in the best interest of consumers or health plans when they negotiate the price of drugs with pharmaceutical manufacturers. The PACT Act 2022 authorizes the Division of Insurance (DOI) to provide much-needed oversight by licensing and regulating PBMs—and establishing sanctions for PBMs that fail to meet certain standards.  

To ensure that patients pay the lowest possible cost at the pharmacy counter, the PACT Act 2022 builds on federal legislation to ensure that a patient purchasing a prescription drug is not charged a cost-sharing amount, such as a co-pay or deductible, that exceeds the drug’s retail price. 

The bill also takes significant steps toward ensuring that patients can get their prescription drugs from the pharmacy of their choice. This bill will allow any pharmacy the opportunity to become licensed to dispense of specialty medications and contract with insurance plans to provide specialty medications to patients. In addition, this bill provides patients with greater access to mail order prescriptions by allowing any network pharmacy to contract with carriers to provide mail-order prescriptions, changing the current practice in which carriers determine what pharmacies are available to patients for mail order prescriptions. 

“Our HelpLine takes calls from people across the state who can’t afford their medications. Individuals and families in Massachusetts have been struggling for far too long to access and afford the prescriptions they need, and this legislation provides critical financial relief at a pivotal time,” said Amy Rosenthal, Executive Director at Health Care For All. “By passing this bill today, Senators took an important step to rein in excessive drug costs, bringing oversight of pharmaceutical companies and pharmacy benefit managers in line with other health care industries in the state.” 

“As the representative of the largest number of independently owned pharmacies in Massachusetts, we are pleased at the action of the senate today to pass comprehensive legislation to address rising prescription drug costs and patient access to their local pharmacy,” said Todd Brown, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Independent Pharmacist Association. “This legislation is a major step forward in protecting patients from the rising cost of prescription drugs and barriers to care resulting from what has long been a black box of secrets by the Pharmacy Benefits Management (PBM) industry. We are encouraged to see that many of our concerns regarding the unfair practices of PBMs have been incorporated in this bill and support the focus on transparency and accountability which are positive developments for patients and independent pharmacies in Massachusetts.” 

To help control costs further, the PACT Act 2022 requires pharmaceutical manufacturers to notify the state in advance of new drugs coming to market, and of significant price increases for existing drugs. With advanced notification, the state’s MassHealth program can better prepare for potential cost increases by exploring ways to mitigate the cost or negotiating improved prices. In addition, advance notification will enable the HPC to focus on these cost drivers at their Cost Trends Hearings, which are held each year to examine the drivers of health care costs, identify challenges and opportunities for improving care and reducing costs in Massachusetts, increase transparency and accountability for health care providers and insurers, and help the state to meet its annual health care cost growth benchmark  

In addition, pharmaceutical manufacturers and PBMs will be included in the HPC’s annual Cost Trends Hearings for the first time. By participating in the hearings process, manufacturers and PBMs will be required to provide public testimony on the factors that influence drug costs and provide documentation to back up their claims. The HPC will use this information to analyze how pharmaceutical industry costs impact the state’s health care market—and the ultimate cost of health care for Commonwealth residents. 

This bill also empowers CHIA to collect a range of drug cost information from pharmaceutical manufacturers and PBMs to include in its annual health care cost report, which does not currently include comprehensive data on drug costs. Collecting this data will allow policymakers and consumers to better understand the role of pharmaceutical manufacturers in driving costs moving forward.  

An amendment adopted on the floor would direct the Department of Public Health, in consultation with the Attorney General, to analyze the Commonwealth’s code of conduct rules for pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers to ensure that they do not improperly influence prescribing patterns of opioids and other drugs. 

The Senate has been a leader in putting forth policies that address unaffordable drug costs. The HEALTH Act, passed by the Senate in 2017, proposed policies to incorporate pharmaceutical costs into the state’s annual health care cost oversight process and ensure that consumers are offered the lowest available prices at the pharmacy. The Senate also championed the inclusion of provisions in the Fiscal Year 2020 budget to allow MassHealth to directly negotiate supplemental drug rebates to save the state millions of dollars each year. The Senate passed the first iteration of the PACT Act in the 2019-2020 session. The PACT Act 2022 takes several more important steps forward to rein in drug costs and improve patient access throughout the health care system.  

The PACT Act 2022 now moves to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for consideration. 

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(Boston 2/7/2022) This week the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) and the Women Veterans’ Network (WVN) announced their launch of a survey for women Veterans in the Commonwealth. The survey is part of a broader study by DVS to develop recommendations to better engage women Veterans and to direct resources in ways that better support women Veterans and their families. Senator John C. Velis secured $500,000 in the FY’22 budget to fund the study and expand outreach to women Veterans in the Commonwealth.  

“I’ve had the honor of training and serving alongside many women in the military.  It’s no secret that they face an entirely different set of challenges than their male counterparts,” stated Senator Velis, a Veteran himself and Major in the US Army Reserve. “Many of the services that our state provides for Veterans were not implemented with women Veterans in mind. Women Veterans have different medical needs, housing needs, and regrettably, often need sexual trauma care.  This study is the first step to making sure they get what they need and that no women Veterans fall between the cracks.” 

The survey is focused on understanding the services that women Veterans in the Commonwealth currently use, and those that could best support their unique circumstances and the issues that impact them. Responses to this survey will help DVS better understand how women Veterans interact with the Department and other service providers. 

The survey and broader study will result in a report submitted by DVS to the Legislature, which will include information on current housing options for women Veterans, the quality and availability of physical, mental, and reproductive healthcare, and recommendations on how to improve women Veterans outreach initiatives. 

Senator Velis, who is also the Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs, noted that the number of women Veterans is still growing. “By year 2040, it is estimated that women Veterans will make up nearly 40% of our Veteran population in Massachusetts. They are the fastest growing demographic of Veterans, and we must ensure that our Commonwealth is meeting their needs.” 

DVS is seeking as many responses as possible and is asking to share the survey link: https://tinyurl.com/5n6j2ybd with any women Veterans. The survey, which should take approximately 10 minutes, can be done on a computer or mobile device. Those who complete the survey will be eligible to enter a raffle to win one of 20 Dunkin’ gift card, each valued at $20. 

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Hello Everyone, 

Can you believe it is already February? Regardless of Punxsutawney Phil seeing his shadow this week, we are only weeks away from the official start of spring. I, for one, am looking forward to spending more time outdoors, watching some hoops during March Madness, and seeing everyone out and about in the district!  

First off, a big shoutout is in order for our educators and students in the district–there are so many exciting things happening in the 413. On Wednesday, I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to speak to students at Mater Dolorosa Elementary School in Holyoke. The students were decked out in red, white, and blue to show their patriotism, and they were a very engaging group. We discussed being thankful and appreciative for the things that we have in America, as well as ways we can all pitch in to make it even better. 

A few congratulatory notes for some additional students in the district. On Friday, Roberta Doering Middle School in Agawam graduated roughly 140 students from D.A.R.E. This long running program is a great way to educate our youth on the harmful effects of illegal substances and alcohol, and how to prevent violent conflict. On January 28^th, Easthampton High School took home the statewide “We the People” competition. EHS students will go on to represent the state of Massachusetts in our Nation’s capital later this spring. This is a tremendous accomplishment, and I look forward to hearing about their continued success!  

Over the past months, committees in the Legislature have been busy holding hearings to hear testimony on bills before them. This past Tuesday was the deadline for those bills to be reported out and move on to their next stage. The Veterans committee reported out over 100 bills, many with favorable recommendations. Committees are an important step in the legislative process, where bills are considered and tweaked, and I look forward to advancing Veterans bills from our committee across the finish line.  

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and I was excited to present a citation on Wednesday to New Leash on Life, a pet grooming salon in Westfield that opened their doors this week. I am excited to see some handsome four-legged friends around the city, maybe we’ll even have my Chief of Staff’s puppy come out to Westfield for a haircut! We love our small businesses and I wish New Leash on Life much success in their venture. 

As we enter February, we are also entering Black History Month. I hope we all take some time this month to reflect on Black perspectives and celebrate the incredible achievements and contributions of Black communities that are so often ignored.  

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   

BOSTON – In an effort to create additional infrastructure across the Commonwealth, the Baker-Polito Administration today announced that $13.1 million in grants have been awarded to 54 government and private entities under the Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP) to install 306 Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) electric vehicle charging ports at 150 locations. The MassEVIP DCFC program, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), provides grants covering 100 percent of the eligible cost to acquire and install publicly accessible DCFC electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at government-owned properties and 80 percent at all other locations, up to $50,000 per charging port. 

“Our administration understands the importance of reliable infrastructure supporting the Commonwealths energy future,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Today’s announcement is a step towards the increased deployment of these clean vehicles, which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and public health, enhance energy diversity and promote economic growth.” 

“This Direct Current Fast Charging incentive program is another example of our administration’s commitment to improving air quality for all,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “This program will support our efforts to grow the clean energy economy, transform the transportation system, and help Massachusetts attain our emissions reduction goals set under the Global Warming Solutions Act.” 

“I am thrilled that Chicopee, Holyoke, Westfield, and West Springfield will be receiving these MassEVIP Fast Charging grants to expand access to electric vehicle charging ports in our communities,” said State Senator John Velis (D-Westfield). “Electric vehicles are one of our best tools to lower our Commonwealth’s emissions and an increasing number of folks in Massachusetts are switching over to these types of cars. These 24 hour, 7 days a week, charging ports will only aid in that growth and I am grateful to the Baker-Polito Administration for their continued investments in this area.” 

The $13.1 million awarded today includes $1.5 million from Massachusetts’ $75 million share of the $2.925 billion Environmental Mitigation Trust established nationally under the 2016 settlement between Volkswagen (VW) and the U.S. Department of Justice, and $11.6 million from the Massachusetts Climate Mitigation Trust. The Massachusetts VW Settlement Beneficiary Mitigation Plan (BMP) committed the Commonwealth to devoting the allowed 15 percent of VW funds to EV charging infrastructure, approximately $11.25 million. MassDEP also offers funding for Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging stations through the Public Access, Workplace and Fleet, and Multi-Unit Dwelling and Educational Campus charging programs. 

“The transportation sector accounts for more than 40 percent of the greenhouse gases emitted in Massachusetts, so the deployment of more electric vehicles is an important step towards helping the Commonwealth’s efforts to achieving our ambitious climate change mitigation goals,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “Significantly, this program will also support environmental justice communities with the placement of 94 of the EV charging ports in EJ areas.” 

“I think it’s great that we are increasing the network of chargers so that electric vehicles continue to become more viable in our state,” said State Representative Kelley Pease (R-Westfield). “As we actively take steps to become leaders in clean energy, I think many of these programs will pay off well in the future.” 

To further expand the Commonwealth’s EV readiness, Massachusetts is working on a regional level with the Northeast States for Coordinated Air Use Management (NESCAUM) to support the placement of EVs and charging stations throughout the region and to enhance the economic benefits associated with these vehicles. Additionally, some of the grantees plan to combine or leverage MassEVIP funding with make-ready infrastructure funding offered by National Grid and Eversource. 

For more information on the EV charging infrastructure programs administered by MassDEP, please visit the agency’s Volkswagen Diesel Settlements and Environmental Mitigation webpage here. 

MassDEP’s mission is to protect and enhance the Commonwealth’s natural resources – air, water and land – to provide for the health, safety and welfare of all people, and a clean and safe environment for future generations. In carrying out this mission, MassDEP commits to address and advance environmental justice and equity for all people of the Commonwealth, provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives and ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities served by the agency. 

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Hello everyone, 

Get your shovels, salt, and snowblowers ready, we are in for some snow! Avoid the roads if you can help it, and make sure to give yourselves plenty of breaks while clearing your driveways. Look after your neighbors and lend a hand to those who may need help as the snow piles up. Thank you to our local DPWs and plowing companies that keep our roadways clear and safe.  

A sincere thank you to all who reached out to me this week with birthday wishes. I may be a year older, but I am as energized as ever. Earlier this week the Western Mass Delegation met with our federal partners in Congress, Congressman Richard Neal and Congressman Jim McGovern, to discuss our strategy moving forward in support of a West-East passenger rail system. The communities spanning from West Stockbridge to Worcester deserve access to a passenger rail system that will connect the entire Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Thank you again Congressman Neal and Congressman McGovern for your guidance and leadership here, and a special thanks to Senator Jo Comerford for hosting this conversation. I look forward to continuing working with my partners on the state and federal level on this critical investment to our infrastructure. 

Team Velis also held office hours in Southwick and Westfield this week and thank you to all the constituents who stopped by with questions. My staff will be at the Southwick Senior Center again next Friday 02/04 from 10:00am – 11:00am. Agawam and Russell, you’re next! We will see you the week of February 7^th. 

On Tuesday the Joint Committee on the Judiciary heard testimony on legislation, including H4290 An Act to protect victims of crimes and the public, filed by Governor Baker. The testimony was riveting, emotional, and gripping. I testified on one specific piece of the bill, our state’s Dangerousness Hearing statute, to advocate to update the statute to include other heinous crimes that are currently not included. Following the hearing, I tuned into Governor Baker’s State of the Commonwealth address. I am thankful for the Baker-Polito administration’s leadership and look forward to a productive 2022 across the legislature. 

To round out a busy week I chaired the first meeting of our National Guard Caucus. I am extremely honored to have the opportunity to work with colleagues, advocates, and most importantly, National Guard members themselves on the issues that are most important to them. The men and women of our National Guard are always there when we need them; it is only right that we are here for them when they need us! I look forward to working with caucus members to advance the Guard’s legislative priorities. 

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