By Bob Katzen

“Survivors of sexual assault already have so many obstacles to overcome when bringing their experiences forward. We have tools to hold perpetrators accountable and help survivors but unaddressed delays minimize the injustice experienced by survivors and place others at risk for potential assaults. The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security needs to take these matters seriously, and ensure these kits are being tracked correctly, processing kits on time and in accordance with the law.”

—State Auditor Diana DiZoglio on her Executive Office of Public Safety and Security audit which identifies issues with oversight of sexual assault evidence collection kits.

“Our governor and her administration have committed to being climate champions. Reducing food waste remains an unrealized opportunity toward that goal. We urge state policymakers to take on reduction of food waste as a top priority. We have a menu of strategies to do just that.”
—Janet Domenitz, Executive Director of MASSPIRG on the group’s new report “How to Reduce Food Waste in Massachusetts.” The report says that despite significant progress in reducing it, food waste still accounts for about 22 percent of Massachusetts’ trash, with nearly one million tons of food waste sent to landfills and incinerators each year.

“Jobs are a great way for young people to learn skills and improve their communities, and it is essential that employers provide safe and healthy work environment. I am proud of the work my office has done to uplift and protect our youth in the workplace, and we will continue to protect them by ensuring that companies are complying with our child labor laws.”
— Attorney General Andrea Campbell highlighting more than $4.1 million in penalties and restitution against Massachusetts employers that have violated Massachusetts’ child labor laws.

“These newly approved loans and grants demonstrate the Trust’s strong commitment to ensuring low-cost financing for water projects throughout our state. Safe and reliable water infrastructure is essential for healthy communities, and we will continue to leverage this funding for the cities and towns that need it.”
— Deb Goldberg, State Treasurer and chair of the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust, announcing $60.4 million in new low-interest loans and grants to help communities build or replace water infrastructure, ensure the safety of drinking water and protect public health.