By Bob Katzen
“By making ChatGPT available to the state workforce, we are empowering our employees with a secure, governed tool that can enhance service delivery while maintaining the highest standards for data privacy, security and thoughtful, transparent usage of Artificial Intelligence. Our focus is not just adopting AI, but doing so in a way that reflects our values, and strengthens trust with the residents we serve.”
—Jason Snyder, Secretary of the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security announcing the launch of the ChatGPT-powered AI Assistant for the state’s workforce, with the goal of making government work better and faster for people.
“I’d like to express my gratitude to the Mass Cultural Council and the artists for their support in making this exhibition possible at the People’s House. We’re committed to making art accessible and inspiring for all.”
—Lt. Gov Kim Driscoll, in honor of Black History Month, unveiling artwork created by Bay State-based Black artists Meclina Gomes and Cheryl Miller.
“We’re all about making it easier to build more housing across our state to drive down costs for everyone. While the double stair requirement plays an important role in ensuring safety, it’s also holding us back from the type of housing construction we need to meet demand. This group will include the best subject matter experts and fire safety officials to explore how we can make it easier to build housing by allowing single stair construction, while continuing to protect our residents and first responders.”
—Gov. Maura Healey upon signing a new executive order to study allowing single stair construction in some residential buildings in an effort to increase housing production and lower costs. Currently, Massachusetts building code requires two exit stairs for buildings above three stories or with long interior corridors, which makes it harder to build mid-rise development on smaller parcels.
“Today’s vote marks an important step forward in Massachusetts’ commitment to strengthening our early education and care system. Increasing reimbursement rates shows we are investing in providers and moving forward an effort to make sure the rates reflect the true cost of care.”
—Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler on the vote by the Board of Early Education and Care to approve the Healey Administration’s proposed increases to childcare financial assistance reimbursement rates for fiscal year 2026.