By Bob Katzen

“The misinformation coming from the Trump administration about vaccines is dangerous and puts the health of our children and families at risk. We must continue to be clear: Vaccines – including the hepatitis B vaccine for newborns – are safe, effective and lifesaving. Massachusetts will continue to base our public health decisions on science and make sure that people have access to the vaccines that they want and need.”
—Gov. Maura Healey

“We have a saying in the fire service: ‘You risk a little to save a little, and you risk a lot to save a lot.’ In big cities and small towns, these firefighters risked everything when lives were on the line. The physical, mental and technical skills they bring to this demanding job are second to none, and the Firefighter of the Year Awards are a small way of recognizing their singular value to our commonwealth.”
— State Fire Marshal Jon Davine honoring firefighters from 15 local fire departments and two state agencies for acts of lifesaving heroism and community service at Massachusetts’ 36th Annual Firefighter of the Year Awards.

“Safer streets are achieved through strong partnerships. These nonprofits play a vital role in educating the public about traffic safety, and we’re proud to support their work.”
—Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, awarding $297,135 to four nonprofits to continue community-based traffic safety initiatives, including pedestrian safety improvements, youth traffic safety education and a young driver diversion program.

“Faced with our lawsuit, the federal government has rightly decided to drop their cruel and unlawful restrictions on essential services that help victims of violent crime navigate their trauma and get back on their feet. Our support for survivors should be unconditional, and I will continue fighting to hold the Trump Administration accountable for actions that harm vulnerable residents.”
—Attorney General Andrea Campbell, on securing an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), ensuring DOJ will not apply alarming restrictions to critical Victims of Crime Act and Violence Against Women Act — services that support survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.

“Adult learners strengthen both our communities and our economy. Adult and Community Learning Services has long built bridges between classroom and career, and this investment is a clear display that workforce readiness remains a priority.”
— Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler, awarding $4.1 million to 12 adult education organizations to support the organizations’ work helping adults enroll in college or find employment in high-growth industries. The funding will be used to provide training, education and wrap-around services to approximately 700 adults to help them pursue jobs such as medical interpreters, certified nursing assistants and community health care workers.