By Bob Katzen

“Every day, police officers across Massachusetts answer the call to serve, often facing extraordinary risks to protect our communities. Today, we recognize 18 officers whose bravery and selflessness went far beyond the call of duty. Their actions represent the very best of public service and the same commitment to protecting others that defined Trooper George Hanna’s life.”

—Gov. Healey in a ceremony honoring 18 law enforcement officers from five Massachusetts police departments at the 43rd Annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards for Bravery. The awards are Massachusetts’ highest recognition for bravery in law enforcement, honoring officers who demonstrated extraordinary courage and put their own lives at risk to protect others.

“Strong fire prevention standards are essential to protecting lives and keeping our communities safe. These updates reflect the importance of working with our local fire service partners, listening to those on the front lines and continually improving our approach to fire safety. We are grateful to the Fall River Fire Department for bringing forward this recommendation and to the Board for its work to strengthen protections across the commonwealth.”
— Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon announcing the approval of new statewide fire safety requirements to help prevent future tragedies and strengthen protections for Massachusetts residents following the deadly Gabriel House fire in Fall River last year. The new standards will require annual checks for recalled fire sprinkler heads, prompt replacement of recalled equipment and additional safety measures when needed to protect residents.

“At the Registry of Motor Vehicles, we are committed to empowering seniors with the resources they need to maintain their independence, dignity and connection to their communities. We’re proud to partner and support the MBTA in helping participants explore their transportation options with confidence and obtain a Massachusetts ID. We look forward to continuing this partnership and support all of our Car Free Seniors in the days and weeks ahead.”
—Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie on the MBTA today announcing that 532 users were successfully enrolled in the MBTA’s Car-Free Seniors Pilot Program on its first day of availability. The new initiative provides free MBTA service to Massachusetts residents age 75 and older who no longer drive, which includes free travel across MBTA bus, subway, ferry and Commuter Rail services. More information about the pilot program is at https://www.mbta.com/fares/reduced/senior-charliecard

“This poisoning of our water is what happens when we use toxic chemicals throughout our economy for unnecessary uses including nonstick cookware, cosmetics, personal care products and clothing. It’s time to turn off the toxic tap and stop using PFAS in so many products.”
—Deirdre Cummings, MASSPIRG Education Fund, on the report that PFAS chemicals are contaminating waterways across the United States, putting fish, wildlife and drinking water at risk. The report titled “PFAS in America’s Rivers and Lakes,” finds that PFAS were detected in Massachusetts’ waterways at 87% of the 108 testing locations from 2022 to 2024.