This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

By Bob Katzen

“Three-in-four Massachusetts voters want to lower the income tax rate from five to four percent, with substantial public support across party lines and income brackets. The proposed tax cut could save the average Massachusetts taxpayer $1,300 annually compared to the status quo. As the cost of living continues to rise, residents are eager for forward-looking solutions that offer meaningful relief.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

UNIFORM AGE FOR KINDERGARTEN (H 510)

By Bob Katzen

Another proposal before the Education Committee would require that children be at least five years old by the beginning of the school year in order to enter kindergarten that year. Under current law, the minimum age for kindergarten eligibility varies by district, as local school committees have the authority to set age requirements.
Continue reading UNIFORM AGE FOR KINDERGARTEN (H 510)

PRE-KINDERGARTEN (H 703)

By Bob Katzen

The Education Committee held a hearing on a bill that would require the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) to administer a publicly funded Pre-K program, which would be available each week a public school is in session for each child from 2 years and 9 months of age to 5 years of age, who is not eligible for or enrolled in kindergarten operated by a public school. The measure would also create a Pre-K Advisory Council within EEC to assist in administering the Universal Pre-K program. Continue reading PRE-KINDERGARTEN (H 703)

POSSIBLE NOVEMBER 2026 BALLOT QUESTIONS ARE CERTIFIED

By Bob Katzen

Attorney General Andrea Campbell announced that her office has certified 40 possible ballot questions that could appear on the November 2026 ballot. Campbell had until September 3 to certify the questions as eligible or reject them as ineligible. Three possible ballot questions did not pass muster and were not certified because they do not meet the requirements outlined in Article 48 of the Massachusetts Constitution.
Continue reading POSSIBLE NOVEMBER 2026 BALLOT QUESTIONS ARE CERTIFIED

Somerville/Medford Remembering Nicholas C. Kakles Jr.

Obituary
Nicholas C. Kakles, Jr. of Malden and formerly of Somerville, passed away on September 2, 2025, he was 81. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Nora (Reardon) and Nicholas C. Kakles, Sr. Nicholas was raised in Somerville, along with his siblings, and graduated from Somerville Trade School, then served honorably with the Massachusetts National Guard for several years.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nicholas C. Kakles Jr.

Somerville/Medford Remembering Carol J. Murphy

Obituary
Carol J. Murphy, of Malden and formerly of Charlestown and Somerville, passed away on September 3, 2025. She was the beloved daughter of the late George H. and Marion W. (Pineo) Murphy. Carol was a dear sister to Helen Dahlgren and was predeceased by her siblings Lorraine Murphy, Marguerite Maher, Paul Murphy, Harry Murphy, and James Murphy. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Carol J. Murphy