By Bob Katzen

“Everyone I talk to here in the Statehouse is really committed to continuing to address the trauma of gun violence to bring the numbers of deaths and injuries from gun violence down to zero. So I’m very optimistic.”
— Ruth Zakarin, executive director of the MA Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence.

“The latest comment from the T board chair that reduced ridership levels is the ‘new normal’ is disappointing and frustrating. A successful business or government agency culture is built on resilience, agility and optimism—not despair to current challenges.”
— James Rooney, President and CEO, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.

“Connecting veterans to critical housing, employment and other supportive services is a central focus for our team at Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans’ Services each and every day.”
—Newly appointed Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jon Santiago on the Healey Administration’s proposed $3.5 million in funding the New England Center and Home for Veterans.

“Family caregivers play a vital role in Massachusetts health care system, whether they care for someone at home, coordinate home health care or help care for someone who lives in a nursing home. We want to make sure all family caregivers have the financial, emotional and social support they need, because the care they provide is invaluable both to those receiving it and to their community.”
—Mike Festa, AARP Massachusetts State Director on his support for legislation that would create a refundable $1,500 tax credit to cover expenses incurred by a taxpayer for the care and support of a qualifying family member.