The Massachusetts Senate voted to extend protections against sexual misconduct and abuse by school staff to students who are 16 and 17.
Author Archives: Jamie Perkins
Posted inStatehouse
How to cut energy bills? Mass. Senate, House disagree
A key senator wants to eliminate a gas pipe program. The House wants cuts from Mass Save.
Posted inImmigration
Mass. Senate passes immigrant protections
Senate Democrats described the PROTECT Act as a reaction to Trump administration abuses. Their bill goes further than a House version passed in March.
Posted inStatehouse
Massachusetts gun regulations will go before voters in November
The fate of a 2024 Massachusetts gun law will soon lie in voters’ hands. A petition drive by gun advocates has sent it to the statewide ballot.
Posted inStatehouse
Massachusetts considers one of the nation’s strictest social media bills
Mental health and online safety advocates are praising the bill. Critics say it threatens personal privacy and would put marginalized communities at risk.
Posted inStatehouse
Farmers praise agriculture bill, but aquaculture concerns remain
The state Senate bill aims to make farming more affordable. Fishermen hope for more to help them.
Posted inStatehouse
Ballot proposal for income tax cut sparks debate
Voters may decide in November whether to cut Massachusetts’ income tax from 5% to 4%. Critics say it’ll blow a $5 billion hole in the state budget.
Posted inStatehouse
South Coast lawmakers lay out priorities for fiscal 2027 state budget
A floating dock, LBGTQ+ programming, community centers and the arts are just some of the areas that legislators have earmarked in the proposed state budget.
Posted inStatehouse
Advocates and lawmakers at odds over transparency ballot questions
Asking the Legislature to support changes to its procedures has proven an uphill battle, leading to tense hearings and prickly exchanges this month.
Posted inStatehouse
Mass. Senate wants ballot campaigns to report donors year-round
November’s election may include 12 ballot questions. The bill would require more transparency around the money behind them.
