By Bob Katzen

“This data confirms that Massachusetts is losing talent and taxable income to lower-cost, lower-tax competitors. These numbers validate what anecdotal evidence, and common sense, have been telling us all along: High state taxes, including the income surtax, are driving people away from Massachusetts.”

—Mass Opportunity Alliance spokesperson Colin Reed on an IRS study that shows that in 2023, Massachusetts experienced a net migration loss of -30,460 — with 150,394 leaving the state and 119,934 people moving to the state.

“Hunting is a longstanding tradition that supports local economies, helps manage wildlife populations and puts food on the table for families. It’s time we update our laws to reflect today’s needs. We know many Massachusetts residents travel to other states on Sundays to hunt, and we want them to be able to gather with friends and family here.”
—Gov. Maura Healey on her legislation allowing hunting on Sundays.

“Our Legislature continues to be one of the most secretive in the nation. Despite more than 72 percent of Massachusetts voters approving an independent audit of the Legislature back in 2024, the power brokers are still dodging it, going so far as to fight it in court. They hide meaningful committee work from the public and keep handing out $60,000 stipends to lawmakers for sitting on inactive panels that barely meet or do anything useful.”
—Rep. Nick Boldyga (R-Southwick) criticizing the Massachusetts Legislature during Sunshine Week (March 15-21).

“I’m proud to have been part of a team that expanded access to health insurance for so many people across Massachusetts. As a result, over a million residents have been able to receive preventive, wellness and life-saving care from our world-renowned healthcare professionals.”
—Former Gov. Mitt Romney on the planned gathering at Faneuil Hall on April 13, to mark the 20th anniversary of Massachusetts’s landmark health care reform law.

“I am truly honored that the voters of the first Middlesex District have placed their trust in me. When I first came to this country as a refugee, I could have never imagined being elected to first the House of Representatives and now the Massachusetts State Senate. As someone who has faced struggles in my personal life, I have seen firsthand the difference that a strong community and dedicated public service can make in people’s lives.”
—Sen. Vanna Howard (D-Lowell) upon being sworn in as the first Cambodian-American state senator in the United States. She was elected in a special election in March to fill the seat of the late State Sen. Edward Kennedy.