“With nuclear power, we have the technology to provide an abundant source of power to our homes in a cheap, clean and efficient manner. Our politicians have failed us by enacting policies that lead to nuclear power plant closures without any plans for replacement.”
—Paul Craney, spokesman for the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance.

“Ollie’s Law is crucial animal protection legislation that our commonwealth urgently needs. We care for and love our animals like we do any other family member. The fact that there are no regulations or oversight for an industry that we place so much trust in should be a concern for every citizen.”
—Rep. Brian Ashe (D-Longmeadow) on his legislation creating regulations designed to protect pets in the entire dog daycare and kennel industry. The bill is named in memory of Ollie, a seven-month-old labradoodle puppy who was mauled by a group of dogs at a daycare facility in East Longmeadow and passed away in November 2020 from those injuries.

“These grants provide the opportunity to help communities and individuals along their path toward healing and accountability. I’m grateful for the important work that each of these grant recipients do to meet the diverse needs of communities through restorative justice, and for the lasting partnerships that these grants help to build.”
—Gov. Maura Healey announcing that $380,000 has been awarded to several nonprofits across the state to provide restorative justice services in low-income communities.

“The data really tells a story about the direct and downstream impacts COVID has had on students. The ongoing trauma of living through a pandemic has led to more students missing school. The financial insecurity many families have faced in the last few years has contributed to increasing student mobility. Those are just a few examples of how this unprecedented time has led to unforeseen challenges. But we are also seeing schools adapting to the changing needs of students with thoughtfulness and innovation. And, with COVID relief money to spend, many districts are at a pivotal moment for change.”
—Chad d’Entremont, executive director of the Rennie Center which released its annual status report on public education, analyzing trends among students, educators and schools nearly three years after the start of the pandemic.