Hello Everyone,
I hope you’re all keeping cool during this heat wave. Make sure to stay hydrated!
The House and Senate convened on Monday to finalize the fiscal year 2023 budget. It’s been a long time coming but the budget proposal will finally make its way to the governor’s desk for his approval. This budget is a great reflection of the values of our commonwealth — thank you to everyone involved for your hard work.
Passed along with the budget was my “don’t ask, don’t tell” amendment. This legislation will allow service members discharged under the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy to access the full range of state military benefits which were previously made unavailable to them. The idea that anyone who has proudly served our country would not be entitled to these well-earned benefits simply for who they are or who they love was so wrong from the start. I am so grateful to my fellow legislators for their support on this important change.
The budget has not been the only legislation on the docket this week. Formal session may be coming to close soon, but we have been busy in the Legislature. We in the Senate have been in session all week debating our version of the economic development bill. Stay tuned for updates as this bill should be finalized soon and could have a tremendous impact on our local economy.
On Saturday, the National Mental Health Hotline went live, allowing people across the country to dial 988 for 24/7 emotional support. You can now call or text 988 or visit 988.lifeline.org/chat to speak with a counselor at any time.
I also want to wish a very happy birthday to Harold Jelly from Westfield. Harold celebrated his 100th birthday this Thursday. We are wishing you happiness, health and peace, Harold!
Last Monday my team held office hours at the Holyoke Council on Aging, and they will be holding them again next week on Monday from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Westfield Council on Aging. Please feel free to stop by with any questions or concerns — we are always happy to help!
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, where you can also sign up for my newsletter.
Sincerely,
John Velis