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News from Beacon Hill
Voter registration deadline for the Presidential Primary is February 15
Massachusetts' presidential primary will take place on Tuesday, March 6th. To register to vote and learn more about voter registration deadlines and election dates, please visit Sec. Galvin's Election Division website.
Rep. Stanley Tours Hanscom Air Force Base
Rep. Stanley received a tour of Hanscom Air Force Base from Chief Master Sergeant Edward Madden on Tuesday, January 31st. Chief Madden showed Rep. Stanley what Hanscom does on a daily basis to provide federal and local security to New England's lone active duty base.
Given the federal government's recent announcement that a new Base Realignment and Closure Commission process (BRAC) could begin as soon as 2013 with a second round in 2015, Rep. Stanley will again fight to keep Hanscom Air Force Base open. In 2005, he lobbied Governor Romney and members of Congress to secure and protect the base's future through the BRAC process. The base continues to serve as a major contributor to the Massachusetts economy, generating $4.2 billion in economic activity for the region, as well as a serious employer, and it is more important than ever to protect Hanscom Air Force Base.
The Air Force complex, located in Bedford, Concord, Lexington and Lincoln, is linked to millions of dollars in research contracts for businesses located along Route 128. According to Chris Anderson, president of the Massachusetts High Technology Council, and president of the Defense Technology Initiative, there are approximately 115,000 jobs related to the defense industry in the state, two-thirds connected with research at Hanscom.
Keeping Hansom open is important to Lexington, Lincoln and Waltham and other neighboring communities as well. Should Hanscom Air Force Base close, the property will become open to commercial development, and will be in direct competition with Waltham, Lexington and Lincoln's commercial property bases. The loss of jobs and increased competition could lower commercial rental rates and increase vacancies which will lower the value of commercial property, leading to a reduction in commercial tax revenue. As a result, residents will be affected by higher residential taxes and/or reduction in municipal services. Lincoln would have serious problems financing the education of all the children now educated at Hanscom.
Rep. Stanley Helps Pass Renewable Energy Legislation
Rep. Stanley helped pass legislation that allows closed landfills to be used for renewable energy. Under this legislation, cities and towns will have the option of building renewable energy projects on capped landfills after receiving a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection. Previously, some cities and towns that received state funding to cap their landfills were limited to recreational uses of the resulting closed landfill, in the form of a mandatory deed restriction. The legislation adds renewable energy generation as an acceptable use of these capped landfills. Additionally, under current law, an exemption for utility-owned solar electricity project building is set to expire in 2012. This new legislation extends that exemption for two more years until 2014.
Rep. Stanley testifies on behalf of his bill to protect Massachusetts' Public Deposits before Joint Committee on Financial Services
Rep. Stanley testified before the Joint Committee on Financial Services in support of a bill he filed to create a special commission to determine the best ways to protect public deposits. Richard Carmignani Jr., the Treasurer of Dudley, MA, also testified on behalf of the Massachusetts Collectors and Treasurers Association (MCTA) in support of Rep. Stanley's legislation.
The special commission would investigate, study and report on the safety and security of deposits made by public entities with funds deposited in any public depository or combined investment fund by the state, municipalities, counties, districts and regional school districts.
The study conducted by the Commission will determine the best ways to protect public deposits and consider the potential effect of legislation requested by the MCTA. This legislation would establish a structure to achieve and maintain the security of public deposits of all governmental entities in the Commonwealth by creating a system for qualifying public depositories and establishing rules for collateralization of public deposits.
Auditor Bump recommends lawmakers refund towns for unfunded mandate
State Auditor Suzanne Bump announced the results of a statewide survey which found that school districts are projected to spend close to $11.3 million this fiscal year as a result of an unfunded state mandate. In September 2011, Rep. Stanley, in a letter to Auditor Bump, asked the state auditor's office to examine the transportation costs of non-resident students, and question whether Waltham's transportation costs are an unfunded mandate.
Due to the state's participation in a federal program, cities and towns are required to provide transportation and education of some homeless children after they are placed in a different municipality for temporary housing. In two separate analyses conducted last year, Auditor Bump determined the requirement to be an unfunded mandate.
Rep. Stanley is gathering support from legislators to fund the reimbursement in a supplemental budget and in future budgets. The Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents is supporting his effort by asking legislators to sign onto a letter Rep. Stanley is sending to the Governor, Senate President and House Speaker regarding this issue.
Waltham has graciously been a host community to many homeless families from across the Commonwealth, and is currently shouldering the financial burden of transporting the children of these families back to their home communities to receive their education, as is required.
Along with the results of this survey, Auditor Bump has sent a letter to Governor Patrick and members of the legislature in which she recommends lawmakers to consider fully funding this mandated cost for FY2012 in a supplemental budget appropriation, and provide ongoing reimbursements in future budgets.
Rep. Stanley working with subcommittee of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy on the issue of double poles
Rep. Stanley is working with a subcommittee of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy (TUE) on the issue of double poles. Committee Vice-Chair Kate Hogan, committee members and Rep. Stanley have been in discussions with line workers, utility companies and state regulators to address the ongoing visual pollution and safety concerns of double poles and bring interested parties together to find a solution to the problem.
Double poles have increasingly become a problem throughout the state, creating eyesores and safety hazards. The subcommittee hopes to increase the speed of double pole removal and encourage the removal of unnecessary utility poles; identify tools and best practices to track pole removal; and create a final report to TUE Chairs with recommendations for more efficient double pole removal. The committee's efforts require a multi-prong approach to identify the most affected areas, meeting with utility and telecommunications companies, and municipalities, as well as reviewing current legislation.
House Passes Unemployment Insurance Rate Freeze Legislation
Rep. Stanley helped pass legislation that freezes a scheduled increase in the unemployment insurance assessment paid by all employers. The unemployment system run by the commonwealth is primarily funded by the state's employers. By law, as the funds in the unemployment system become depleted, employers' contributions would increase. Freezing the rate at Schedule E will save the average employer $141 per employee and workers would continue to receive the same benefits under this rate freeze.
The bill also provides $35 million to the MassHealth Senior Care Adult Day Health program. Adult Day Health centers are assistance centers that provide care for seniors during the day when other family members or caregivers may have to work or handle other responsibilities. This funding will extend adult day health services until July 1, 2012.
The legislation also directs $21.2 million to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. During the cold of winter, this funding appropriated to LIHEAP will heat the homes of low-income elders, working families, and many other households.
Gov. Patrick Files Fiscal Year 2013 Budget
Gov. Patrick filed his Fiscal Year 2013 budget recommendation. The budget invests in Governor Patrick's four key priorities: growing jobs, closing the achievement gap in our schools, lowering health care costs and ending youth violence by supporting positive youth development. The Governor's FY13 budget recommendation proposes state spending of $32.3 billion, or a 2.98 percent increase from the current year estimated spending levels. This year-on-year spending growth of $935.9 million is significantly less than originally projected because of significant program reductions, positions eliminations and reforms.
House Approves DNA Bill to Help Overturn Wrongful Convictions
The House unanimously approved a bill which would allow convicted criminals who maintain their innocence and meet specific criteria to access DNA evidence to help overturn their convictions. The bill states that people serving a sentence need to win a motion before a judge showing evidence that could result in an acquittal to be eligible for post-conviction access to DNA evidence. Members also voted against a proposal to collect DNA samples for those arrested for felonies.
House Passes Education Collaboratives Legislation
Rep. Stanley helped pass legislation that will improve the governance, financial accountability, and state and local oversight of regional education collaboratives. The legislation establishes new procedures that will increase transparency and oversight of these education collaboratives including new ethics requirements for board members and personnel, more oversight by the Attorney General, State Auditor, and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and more strict reporting requirements on programs, services, and progress.
Much of the current legislation seeks to address deficiencies in current law that became apparent after a string of audits and investigations conducted by the State Auditor and Inspector General in recent months and years. The proposed legislation was drafted after a comprehensive oversight hearing process conducted by the Joint Committee on Education in the wake of those audits and investigations.
Under this legislation, several requirements for the governance of education collaboratives are set forth. The bill first requires that an education collaborative be managed by a board of directors consisting of one person appointed annually by each school committee member or member charter school board. The board is required to meet six times annually and each board member must report back to his or her appointing school committee on a quarterly basis.
The legislation also requires that the board of directors of a collaborative must appoint an outside treasurer to handle investments and maintain a fiscally responsible financial accounting system. An annual audit report from each collaborative will be submitted to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the state Auditor, and each member school committee for review. Each collaborative must also prepare and submit an annual report detailing the programs and services provided as well as their financial standing.
Additionally, this legislation establishes an 11-member commission to study the role of education collaboratives in Massachusetts. The commission will be responsible for filing a report with its recommendations with the Clerks of the House and Senate no later than 12 months following its first meeting.
Gov. Patrick Delivers State of the Commonwealth Address
Gov. Patrick delivered his fourth State of the Commonwealth address. In his address he promoted an ambitious agenda on getting people back to work, lowering health care costs and strengthening public safety. In each of these areas, the Governor again asked the Legislature and the people to make hard choices. Governor Patrick also discussed a set of reforms to help Massachusetts community colleges meet regional workforce demands by providing workers with the skills they need to help fill the estimated 120,000 current job openings in the state.
AG Coakley Launches New Tool in Fight against Medicaid Fraud
In an effort to encourage people to report instances of abuse, neglect, and fraud related to the Medicaid system in Massachusetts, AG Coakley launched an online form to make it even easier to send complaints. The newly created Medicaid Fraud Complaint or Fraud Reporting Form, located on the AGO's website, allows individuals to report instances of Medicaid fraud and misconduct electronically to the Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Division for referral. The online form is in addition to the Medicaid Fraud tip line that currently receives hundreds of complaints each year and which has resulted in significant investigations and recovery of taxpayer dollars.
The Medicaid Fraud Complaint or Fraud Reporting Form requires information regarding the subject of the complaint, the suspected fraud, and a brief description of the events that occurred. Complaints are reviewed on a daily basis by members of AG Coakley's Medicaid Fraud Division. The form may be submitted anonymously by the complainant. In addition to the online form, individuals may continue to contact the Medicaid Fraud tip line at (617) 963-2360.
Lieutenant Governor Murray Announces More Than $5.2 Billion in Local Aid for Cities and Towns
Delivering the keynote address at the 33rd Massachusetts Municipal Association's annual meeting, Lieutenant Governor Murray announced more than $5.2 billion in state funding to cities and towns, including a $145 million increase in K-12 Chapter 70 education aid - the highest level in history - which will be included in the Patrick-Murray Administration's Fiscal Year 2013 budget proposal.
The Administration's FY 2013 budget proposal will fund local aid at more than $5.2 billion. That funding will include $4.1 billion in K-12 Chapter 70 education aid, marking the highest level of investment in education in the Commonwealth's history. Local aid represents approximately 16% of the annual state budget, which will be filed by Governor Patrick. The increase in K-12 Chapter 70 aid will fully fund all school districts at foundation levels and ensure that all school districts will receive equal or greater funding than in FY 2012. Maintaining a strong investment in education is a crucial component of the Administration's efforts to close the achievement gap and to make Massachusetts a national leader in educational achievement.
State Announces $14 Million for Park Improvements
More than $14 million in grants will be used to enhance parks and recreational facilities in 25 communities throughout the Commonwealth. The grants will fund projects in Amherst, Barnstable, Boston, Chelsea, Everett, Fall River, Falmouth, Gloucester, Haverhill, Holyoke, Lawrence, Leominster, Lowell, Lynn, Medford, Northampton, Quincy, Revere, Salem, Somerville, Springfield, Westfield, Wilbraham, Woburn, and Worcester.
The grants announced derive from two Energy and Environmental Affairs initiatives - the Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities program (PARC) and the Gateway Cities Parks Program, which is one of Governor Patrick's signature initiatives. Through these two programs alone, the Patrick Administration has invested more than $72.9 million since 2007, resulting in the creation or restoration of 154 parks.
Massachusetts First State in the Nation to Pursue 'Pay for Success' Social Innovation Contracts
The Patrick Administration announced a first in the nation initiative to allow Massachusetts to enter into "pay for success" contracts designed to encourage innovative solutions to social problems, improve the performance of government and save taxpayer money. The Executive Office for Administration and Finance (ANF) today issued Requests for Response (RFRs) as a next step in pursuing these social innovation financing contracts.
Massachusetts is the first state in the nation to issue a competitive procurement to obtain services using this approach. Funding for the Commonwealth's program would be paid from budgetary resources, but only if the programs work to deliver better social outcomes and savings to the state budget. President Obama's FY 2012 budget included a proposal to invest $100 million in "pay for success" projects in seven pilot areas including job training, education, juvenile justice and care of children with disabilities. Through this initiative, the Commonwealth expects to be well-positioned to compete for any federal funding that may be available in the future.
Performance-based investments will help encourage innovation and tackle challenging social issues. New and innovative programs have potential for success, but often have trouble securing government funding because it can be hard to rigorously prove their effectiveness. Social innovation financing allows the government to partner with innovative service providers and, if necessary, private foundations or other investors willing to cover the upfront costs and assume performance risk, to expand promising programs, while assuring that taxpayers will not pay for the programs unless they demonstrate success in achieving the desired outcomes.
Environmental Officials Announce New Toxic Chemical Rules
Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. announced new regulations regarding the use of toxic chemicals in Massachusetts. The regulations, which took effect January 1, increase the number of companies required to report use of some of these chemicals by approximately 20 companies.
The Toxics Use Reduction Administrative Council, the six-member governing body of the Toxic Use Reduction program overseen by EEA, and chaired by Secretary Sullivan, designated both hexavalent chromium compounds and formaldehyde as Higher Hazard Substances and added 16 chemicals to the Toxic Use Reduction Act (TURA) list of toxic or hazardous chemicals. The designations require additional companies to report on the use of these chemicals and evaluate whether there are cost-effective ways to reduce that use.
The TURA Council is charged with coordinating state enforcement of laws and regulations on chemical use and toxic waste generation, implementing policies that promote worker health and safety, and safeguarding public health. Under EEA's new regulations, as of January 1, companies are required to track usage for hexavalent chromium compounds and formaldehyde for inclusion on reports to be filed with the Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) on July 1, 2013. Companies using these chemicals must also submit to MassDEP summaries on plans to reduce their use on July 1, 2014.
Mass 2-1-1, in Partnership with United Way, Partners with Department of Veterans Services
To learn more about the services available to veterans by MA 2-1-1 and the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, the chief advocate for veterans and their families in the Commonwealth, please click here. 2-1-1 is the national abbreviated dialing code for free access to health and human services Information and Referral. 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember and universally recognizable number that makes a critical connection between individuals and families seeking services or volunteer opportunities and the appropriate community-based organizations and government agencies. 2-1-1 makes it possible for people to navigate the complex and ever-growing maze of human service agencies and programs. By making services easier to access, 2-1-1 encourages prevention and fosters self-sufficiency. It also is hoped that it will reduce the number of non-emergency calls inappropriately made to 911.
Gov. Patrick signs Mass. transgender law The new law will prohibits discrimination against transgender citizens in employment, housing, insurance and credit. There are an estimated 33,000 transgender citizens in Massachusetts. The measure, approved by the legislature in November, also extends the state's hate crime laws to cover transgender people. MA Ranks High for Animal Protection According to a report released by the Human Society of the United States, MA is tied for fourth with IL in a poll ranking state animal protection laws. The report, which ranked California first and South Dakota last, compares animal cruelty codes, equine protection standards, wildlife issues, animals in research and farm animal policies. The report cited the passage of MA's ballot law banning greyhound racing. Nurses Urge Safe Staffing Law Approximately 100 nurses across MA packed a State House hearing room to lobby the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing for passage of a nurse staffing law which they say will save patients' lives. Similar bills have passed the House but never made it to the governor's desk. Legislators and members of the Massachusetts Nurses Association were also in attendance. The bill would mandate that hospitals limit the number of patients they care for at any one time. Committee on Transportation Endorses Bill Limiting Drivers to Hands-Free Phones The Committee on Transportation endorsed House Bill 1817 which would prohibit handheld cell phone use by drivers, limiting calls to hands-free devices. Two years ago MA passed legislation to ban texting while driving. The bill states that "No operator of a motor vehicle shall use a mobile telephone or mobile electronic device for voice communications, unless said telephone or device is being used as a hands-free mobile telephone." Exceptions for drivers would include of a driver's car was disabled, a passenger required medical attention, police or firefighter assistance was needed or if they witnessed an car accident. Department of Mental Health has New Commissioner The state Department of Mental Health (DMH) named Marcia Fowler as its new commissioner, succeeding Barbara Leadhold who is stepping down. Fowler currently serves as deputy commissioner for mental health services at DMH. Prior to that, she worked at the Fernald School, the New England Home for Little Wanderers, Morgan Memorial Goodwill Industries, the Foundation for Children with AIDS and Polaris Healthcare Services. House to consider bill to enforce boat decontamination procedures and fine violators The House will consider a bill to allow the state's environmental police to enforce decontamination procedures at public boat launches, which would result in fines for violators. The bill allows environmental police to enforce boat decontamination procedures, and enabling them to fine boaters who do not comply. The fines will be range from $25 to $100 for the first offense, $100 for second offense, and up to $1,000 for a third offense. The stricter Department of Conservation and Recreation regulations are designed to prevent local waters from being contaminated by "aquatic nuisances." The bill is important in light of an increase in invasive species not native to Massachusetts waters in our lakes, including zebra mussels which cause severe ecological damage. These harmful aquatic species enter MA water from neighboring states when boaters do not decontaminate their boats. Executive Office of Health and Human Services: A Healthy Heart This Valentine's Day Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. But the good news is that even small changes in diet and lifestyle can reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your overall quality of life. Visit the Executive Office of Health and Human Services' website to learn how.
State Launches Loan Fund for Commercial Fishermen Massachusetts is creating a new Commercial Fisheries Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) - the first of its kind in New England - designed to help bridge the gap for commercial fishermen as they transition to the new sector management program for groundfish. In May 2011, as an alternative to developing a federally-funded, state-operated groundfish permit bank, the state's Department of Fish and Game's (DFG) Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) proposed that NOAA Fisheries authorize the use of $1 million in federal funds for a revolving short-term loan program designed to provide economic assistance to owner-operated fishing businesses attempting to lease additional groundfish quota. Once the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) approved a revised grant proposal, DMF and NMFS worked out a Memorandum of Agreement authorizing the revolving loan fund. The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is responsible for promoting the conservation and enjoyment of the Commonwealth's natural resources. DFG carries out this mission through land protection and wildlife habitat management, management of inland and marine fish and wildlife species, and ecological restoration of fresh water, salt water, and terrestrial habitats. DFG promotes enjoyment of the Massachusetts environment through outdoor skills workshops, fishing festivals and other educational programs, and by enhancing access to the Commonwealth's rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.
MBTA Considers Fare Hikes
In an attempt to close a $161 million budget gap in fiscal 2013, the MBTA is considering fare increases and service reductions that would include the elimination of some bus routes, cancel weekend commuter rail service and increase the cost of a subway ride to $2.40. Ferry service bringing commuters to and from Boston may also be affected. Rep. Stanley is in discussions with other legislators representing MBTA communities to find acceptable alternatives to service reductions.
Twenty public meetings including one hearing will be held by through March 6. A complete list of meetings times and locations is now available at www.mbta.com/jointhediscussion. A public meeting will take place on Thursday, March 1, from 6:00-8:00PM at Government Center Auditorium in Waltham.
The MBTA is accepting public comment through March 1, 2012 electronically at mbta.com, by email at fareproposal@mbta.com, via mail to MBTA, Ten Park Plaza, Boston, Ma 02116, Attention: Fare Proposal Committee, and by phone at 617-222-3200/ TTY (617) 222-5146.
Massachusetts' New and Leased Car Lemon Law
The Massachusetts Lemon Law protects consumers who have serious defects in their new cars. The law defines a lemon as a new or leased motor vehicle that has a defect which substantially impairs the use, market value, or safety of the vehicle, and which has not been repaired after a reasonable number of attempts. If your new or leased vehicle has a substantial defect that still exists or recurs after a reasonable number of repair attempts, then you may have the right to a refund or replacement vehicle. Keep in mind that not all car problems are serious enough to qualify under the Lemon Law. Click here for more info.
MassWildlife Offers Calendar of Events
The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) is responsible for the conservation - including restoration, protection and management - of fish and wildlife resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the public. The Division works to balance the needs of people and wildlife today so wildlife will be available for everyone's enjoyment today and for future generations. To learn more about DFW events across the Commonwealth, such as wildlife-related workshops, talks, walks or demonstrations, please click here.
MassDOT RMV urges eligible drivers to renew their licenses online
The number of license renewals is expected to increase by 50 percent beginning in November and continue at higher levels for the months thereafter. November is the beginning of a five-year license renewal cycle that began in 1991, replacing the previous four-year cycle. The result of that change is one year every five years with a reduced number of license renewals. That lower volume year ends as of November 1, and transactions will increase. The RMV has responded by launching a publicity campaign through Highway Division billboards and public service announcements at the MBTA to urge drivers to check their license expiration dates and renew online.
Services available on the MassDOT RMV website include applying for a first time license; converting an out-of-state license; scheduling a branch appointment; registration renewals; ordering a driving record, crash report or Fast Lane transponder; viewing the status of a license, registration, driver education certificate and title; signing up for organ/tissue donation; and canceling a registration plate.
Renew Your Recreation Vehicle and Snowmobile Registration Online!
Through the Massachusetts Environmental Police Online Registration System, you can now renew your motorboat, snowmobile, or recreation vehicle registration online. Please click here for more information
State Announces Internship Opportunities Website
The state launched a website featuring internship opportunities across Massachusetts. The new website, promoted by the Commonwealth Marketing Office, aims to convince college students and recent graduates to stay in the state. Companies are allowed to post opportunities at no charge and serves as a "a one-stop shop" for students searching for internships. Currently, the site features more than 100 internship opportunities.
Drivers Encouraged to "Donate Life"
Massachusetts drivers can register as organ donors on their driver's license or online through the Donate Life New England registry. About 99 percent of all Massachusetts residents who designate themselves as organ and tissue donors do so through the Registry of Motor Vehicles at RMV branches and on its website.
Registering as a donor can save the life of someone desperately in need of a transplant. More than 110,000 Americans, including about 3,000 Massachusetts residents, are awaiting a life-saving organ transplant that may not come in time. In 2009, the RMV became the first state agency in New England to create an on-line application to allow an individual to register to be a donor. New England Organ Bank is the federally-designated, non-profit procurement organization responsible for the surgical recovery of organs and tissues for transplant throughout the New England region. Donate Life New England is a joint project of two federally designated organ procurement organizations that serve New England - LifeChoice Donor Services and New England Organ Bank. They have come together to create a fast and easy way for citizens of New England to register as organ and tissue donors in a secure and confidential manner. For more information, visit www.donatelifenewengland.org.
Improved Benefits and Discounts for Drivers
Drivers around the state are able to take advantage of more discounts and expanded benefits as the competitive marketplace continues to mature. Managed competition went into effect April 1, 2008, ending the fixed-and-established system under which the state set auto insurance rates. The new system created a marketplace that allows companies to compete for consumers through rates, discounts, and benefits. Since the start of the reform, 13 new companies have entered the state, including three of four biggest carriers in the country (Allstate, Progressive and GEICO).
To shop for a better auto insurance policy, visit www.mass.gov/autorates, research carriers' websites, and meet with insurance agents. For more info, visit the Massachusetts Division of Insurance's website, (www.mass.gov/doi) an agency within the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Follow the Office at www.mass.gov/consumer.
Free program to help veterans & their families quit smoking
A free, statewide smoking cessation program is designed to help Massachusetts veterans and their families live healthier and longer lives. Massachusetts veterans and their family members can now call the Massachusetts Smokers Helpline at 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) or click here to receive free telephone support and a two-week supply of nicotine patches to help them quit smoking.
Job Opportunities with the Commonwealth of MA
There are a number of job listings posted on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts home page. For more information, click here.
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