By Bob Katzen
“I promise all the constituents of this district that I will work hard to ensure that your interests are represented on Beacon Hill. I will work continuously to make a positive difference for our district and our commonwealth. I will always stand with the taxpayers, help small businesses and ensure that our state government is accountable.”
—Sen. Peter Durant (R-Spencer) upon being sworn into the Senate to fill the seat vacated by Former Sen. Anne Gobi.
“Using creativity as a foundation, our cultural districts have proven themselves as drivers of economic activity within communities. With this investment, we’re not only supporting the creative and cultural sector, but the communities that host cultural districts as they continue to leverage their unique character to attract visitors and support economic growth.”
—Michael Bobbitt, Executive Director of the Mass Cultural Council, announcing $810,000 in grants funding 54 state-designated cultural districts to encourage the development and success of the cultural districts and foster local cultural preservation.
“I am proud of my team’s dedication in securing a settlement with Rent-A-Center, which sadly utilized egregious tactics to target and exploit low-income communities for profit. My office will continue to protect all consumers from harmful and exploitive practices by those who do business in our state.”
—Attorney General Andrea Campell announcing the state will receive $8.75 million from a settlement with Rent-A-Center to resolve allegations that the company engaged in a pattern of unfair and deceptive business practices against consumers in violation of state consumer protection laws.
“Nourishing and healthy food is grown right here in Massachusetts, but not all of our residents have access to these local farms. This funding will help bridge that gap by investing in our Buy Local organizations, farmers and environmental justice communities. Everyone, regardless of race or income, deserves access to fresh, local products.”
— Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper announcing $800,000 in grants to support the efforts of ten regional Buy Local organizations that work to help generate consumer awareness and demand for locally grown food products.