By Bob Katzen
“We shouldn’t pollute our air and endanger our health just by doing everyday yard work. We have better options. It’s good to see more cities and states across the country take action to improve our health and quality of life by switching away from dirty gas lawn mowers and leaf blowers.”
— Janet Domenitz, MASSPIRG Education Fund Director, unveiling a study showing nationwide progress on transitioning away from gas-powered lawn equipment.
“The significant decline in recidivism rates reflects the Department’s focus on evidence-based practices and strategic interventions designed to support successful reentry into society. Reducing recidivism not only benefits those who are reintegrating but also enhances public safety across Massachusetts.”
—Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy on the release of the Department of Corrections’ Annual Recidivism Report showing that the recidivism rate decreased from 29 percent to 26 percent.
“Our noses are to the grindstone, we’re trying to identify the right people through the [request for proposals] process to plan, address and get it online. Because once we go online, we want it to be perfect.”
—State Treasurer Deb Goldberg on the expected launch of the state’s Lottery online in April 2026. The original launch date was supposed to be in late 2025.
“I’m excited to announce the launch of Uplift Salem, our guaranteed income pilot program to help directly address poverty in our community and contribute to the growing evidence from across the nation about the efficacy of these types of initiatives… Hopefully, the outcome of this year-long effort will be to add to the momentum for greater state and federal support for these programs, and most importantly, to lift up some of our most vulnerable neighbors here in Salem.”
—Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo on the launch of Uplift Salem, a guaranteed income pilot that will invest $500 a month in 100 Salem residents for one year. Participants will be able to spend the cash however they want. The total cost of the pilot, which is funded through American Rescue Plan Act dollars and a private contribution through UpTogether, is $685,000.