Representing our District
John’s focus has always been on what is best for his district and the people that he represents.
As one of the most bi-partisan legislators in the State House, John always puts the needs of his constituents first.
Affordability
As prices rise and residents struggle to afford even the most basic essentials, John’s guiding north star in the Senate is on ways to make life more affordable for hardworking families and individuals.
John is constantly working to make sure that lawmakers on Beacon Hill are focused on the very issues his constituents are discussing over the kitchen table each night: cost of living and economic stability.
Advocating for Veterans
John has championed Veteran’s issues in the Senate as Chairman of the Veterans Committee.
His achievements include spearheading the passage of a $400 million bond bill to rebuild the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, leading efforts to prevent the closure of the Leeds VA Medical Center, authoring the SPEED Act, hailed the most impactful bill for Veterans and their families in a generation, and expanding Governor Healey’s HERO Act to benefit not only the Commonwealth’s veterans but also active-duty service members and their families.
Mental Health and Substance Use
As Chairman of the Mental Health, Substance Use, and Recovery Committee, John continues to push for increased mental health and substance use initiatives, including securing funding for Baystate Noble’s Opioid Treatment & Prevention Program and for a new innovative school-based behavioral health program launched in the Agawam Public Schools, known as MCPAP for Schools, that has improved wait times and access to services.
During John’s time in the Senate, he had helped usher into law the Mental Health ABC 2.0 , a monumental piece of legislation that ensures a Mental Health Wellness Exam for every resident, and later an omnibus Substance Use Disorder Bill aimed to reduced overdoses and expand access to recovery programs in communities throughout our state.
Investing in Education
As a proud product of the Westfield Public School system, John understands the value and importance of public education.
That’s why John has consistently voted to fully fund the “Student Opportunity Act” for our K-12 schools and has fought to expand resources for Public Higher Education and Vocational Schools.
Working for Fiscal Responsibility
John has fought to balance state spending while providing financial relief to residents on a fixed income.
John has led the charge on reforming our state tax structure and has continuously voted to suspend and eliminate the state gas tax.
Developing our Economy and Workforce
John believes it is critical that we prepare our workforce with the skills they need to succeed.
Throughout his time in the Senate, John has supported expanding vocational training and fought to secure funding for local businesses throughout Western Massachusetts.
Supporting Community Organizations
John is proud of the relationships that he has formed with municipalities and organizations throughout the district.
From Police Departments, to Boys & Grils Clubs, to Councils on Aging, John continues to zealously advocate for groups throughout our community in support of the great work they do.
Protecting our Environment and Natural Resources
Western Massachusetts is a beautiful place and John wants to make sure that it stays that way.
That is why John has helped expand state recycling and zero-waste initiatives and supported pursuing sustainable energy alternatives.
