Memorial Day 2025: Honoring Those Who Made The Ultimate Sacrifice For Our Nation

Oliver Wendell Holmes referred to Memorial Day as “our most sacred holiday,” and said we should “not ponder with sad thoughts the passing of our heroes, but rather ponder their legacy – the life they made possible for us by their commitment and pain.”

We can never fully repay the debt we owe to our veterans, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation to help protect our many freedoms. On Memorial Day, the House Republican Caucus joins with Americans everywhere as we remember and honor the lasting legacy of our fallen soldiers.

Rep. Kane to Serve on Reconstituted Special Commission on Local and Regional Public Health

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury) to serve as his designee on the newly-reformed Special Commission on Local and Regional Public Health.

Initially created in 2016 to help assess the effectiveness and efficiency of municipal and regional public health systems in Massachusetts, the special commission has been temporarily revived to review the Public Health Excellence Program, which was launched in April of 2021 to promote health care equity across the state through the development of shared public health services on a regional level. The commission will also review the funding available to support and enhance the Commonwealth’s local and regional public health system.

“As a legislator, Hannah has long prioritized public health issues as part of her legislative and budgetary agenda,” said Representative Jones. “She has a proven track record of working to build consensus on public health policy, and I am confident that she will once again play a key role in advancing the special commission’s agenda to improve health care equity for all Massachusetts residents and to maintain a robust local and regional public health system.”

Representative Kane served as a member of the original 2016 special commission, which completed its work and disbanded after filing a report on its findings and recommendations in June of 2019. The six key recommendations contained in the commission’s report included proposals to:

·       * Elevate the standards for and improve the performance of local public health departments.

·      * Increase cross-jurisdictional sharing of public health services to strengthen the service delivery capabilities of local public health departments.

·      * Explore improvements to the current platforms to report, analyze, and interpret data.

·       * Set education and training standards for local public health officials and staff and expand access to professional development.

·       * Commit appropriate resources for the local public health system changes proposed by the Commission.

·       * Ensure continuity of stakeholder engagement in the implementation of the Commission’s recommendations.

Representative Kane was recognized for her work on the 2016 commission when she received the Massachusetts Public Health Association Legislative Leadership Award in November of 2019. She also received the Vic Karaian Award from the Massachusetts Environmental Health Association in May of 2022 in recognition for her leadership and primary sponsorship of the Statewide Accelerated Public Health for Every Community Act (SAPHE 2.0).

“I was honored to serve on the original Special Commission on Local and Regional Public Health, and to then work with my colleagues and advocates to pass into law many of the Commission's recommendations. H1935, An Act relative to strengthening the local and regional public health system (SAPHE 1.0) was signed into law in April 2020, and H2204, An Act relative to accelerating improvements to the local and regional public health system to address disparities in the delivery of public health services (SAPHE 2.0), was signed into law as part of H5100 in November 2024,” said Representative Kane. “Public health is one of my top priorities, and I am grateful to Leader Jones for the opportunity to continue working with the Commission to ensure that all Massachusetts residents can enjoy strong public health services.”

Representative Kane was first elected to the House of Representatives in a 2015 special election and is currently the Ranking Minority Member of the Joint Committees on Public Health, Health Care Financing, and State Administration & Regulatory Oversight, as well as the Ranking Minority Member of the House Ethics Committee and a member of the House Committee on Steering, Policy & Scheduling. She represents the 11^th Worcester District, which is comprised of the town of Shrewsbury and Precinct 4 in Westborough.

Representative Sweezey to Serve on Ocean Advisory Commission

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative Kenneth P. Sweezey (R-Duxbury) to the Massachusetts Ocean Advisory Commission.

Created by the Legislature as part of the Oceans Act of 2008, the Ocean Advisory Commission is responsible for assisting and advising the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs on the management and development of the Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan, which governs the protection and sustainable use of the state’s ocean waters.

“As the Ranking Minority Member on the Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, Ken is a perfect fit for the Advisory Commission,” said Representative Jones. “I am confident he will do a great job working to ensure that the Commonwealth’s marine habitats are properly protected.”

Representative Sweezey expressed his appreciation for the appointment, stating, “I’m proud to be appointed to the co
mmission to advocate for our coastline, particularly in communities like Marshfield and Duxbury, which I’m honored to represent. It is critical that ‘development’ in our ocean spaces be done responsibly and with careful consideration for our coastal communities and natural resources.”

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs is required to review the Ocean Management Plan at least once every five years. The most recent plan was released in 2021.

Representative Sweezey is one of 18 members serving on the Advisory Commission, which includes legislators, state agency representatives, and several stakeholders from environmental organizations and the fishing industry. He is replacing former Representative Mathew J. Muratore (R-Plymouth), who had served on the Advisory Commission since 2015.

Representative Sweezey represents the 6^th Plymouth District, which is comprised of the town of Duxbury; Precinct 2 in Halifax; Precincts 2 and 3 in Hanson; Precincts 2A and 4 in Marshfield; and Precincts 1, 2, 3A, 4, and 5 in Pembroke.

Representative John Marsi Appointed to the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative John J. Marsi (R-Dudley) to serve as a member of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities.

Created as part of the 2020 policing reform law, the 23-member Commission is an independent state agency focused on addressing the needs and challenges faced by the disability community in Massachusetts, as it relates to transportation, access to employment, housing, childcare and many other areas. Marsi succeeds former State Representative Mathew J. Muratore (R-Plymouth), who had served on the Commission since 2021.

The Commission is responsible for reviewing the programs and practices of all state agencies affecting persons with disabilities and advising the executive and legislative branches regarding the potential impact of proposed legislation on the disabled community. The Commission also promotes and helps to facilitate collaboration among local disability commissions, disability rights advocacy organizations and disability employment service providers, while working to identify and correct any disparities that exist within the range of state disability services options available to individuals with disabilities.

“The Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities is comprised of individuals who have personal or professional experience with disability issues, a demonstrated interest and involvement in disability advocacy, and a commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in all aspects of life, and those are all qualities that John possesses,” said Representative Jones. “John’s personal experiences as the father of a daughter with special needs makes him uniquely qualified to serve on the Commission, and I am confident he will use this new position to advocate for state policies that will help to improve the quality of life for all individuals with disabilities.”

The Commission includes members appointed by legislative leadership; the Governor’s, Attorney General’s, State Treasurer’s, and Secretary of State’s offices; and the Executive Director of the Disabled Persons Protection Commission; along with representatives of the University of Massachusetts Medical School Work Without Limits program; the Massachusetts Disability Policy Consortium; the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers, Inc.; and the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council.

The Commission is responsible for filing an annual report on or before October 31.

Marsi represents the 6^th Worcester District, which is comprised of Dudley; Southbridge; Precincts 1, 2, 3, and 4A in Charlton; and Precinct 1 in Spencer.

Representative Xiarhos Appointed to Xylazine Commission

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative Steven George Xiarhos (R-Barnstable) to a special legislative commission tasked with addressing the growing public health and safety concerns surrounding the proliferation of xylazine.

Xylazine is an animal tranquilizer that has been used by licensed veterinarians since 1971. However, the substance has been raising concern with law enforcement officials as it has increasingly been found mixed with illicit drugs being consumed by humans. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), “Fentanyl is increasingly being mixed with the veterinary sedative xylazine (‘tranq’), which continues to be detected in the state’s street drug supply and was present in 9 percent of opioid-related overdose deaths in 2023, up from 5 percent in 2022.” In addition to slowing breathing and heart rates, xylazine exposure can lead to severe skin abscesses and ulcers, which may result in amputation.

Representative Xiarhos is one of 13 members serving on the Xylazine Commission, which was created as part of the substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure bill recently signed into law. It will explore ways for Massachusetts to strengthen oversight of xylazine’s production and distribution, ensuring that it remains strictly for veterinary use. The commission also will examine whether xylazine should be classified as a controlled substance and assess appropriate penalties for its illegal production and distribution. Members will evaluate the availability of effective outreach and treatment programs for individuals exposed to xylazine and identify any gaps in existing services. The commission is required to submit its findings and recommendations by June 30, 2025.

A former Deputy Chief of Police in Yarmouth, Representative Xiarhos brings over 40 years of law enforcement experience to the commission. He has a deep understanding of the dangers posed by illicit drugs and their devastating impact on communities. His career has included direct involvement in drug enforcement, community outreach, and policy development. 

“Having spent over 40 years in law enforcement, I understand the severity of the public health risks posed by drugs like xylazine, which are wreaking havoc on our communities,” said Representative Xiarhos. “I’m honored to serve on this commission and will work tirelessly to develop solutions that help prevent the misuse of this drug and protect the people of Massachusetts. As a member of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee, I’m deeply committed to advancing public safety and health, and I will bring that dedication to this important task.”

"The misuse of xylazine represents a significant public health and safety threat,” said Representative Jones. “Rep. Xiarhos' law enforcement background will aid the commission’s efforts to develop recommendations to help stop xylazine abuse before it claims more lives. I am pleased to be able to appoint him to serve on this special commission and I look forward to receiving the commission's report and recommendations this summer.” 

First elected to serve in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 2020, Steve Xiarhos is now serving his third term representing the people of the 5^th Barnstable District, which includes the Town of Sandwich and portions of Barnstable and Bourne.

House Minority Leader Jones’ Statement on Release of House Ways and Means’ FY26 Budget

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) released the following statement today regarding the release of the House Ways and Means Committee’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 state budget:

“I appreciate the fact that the proposed House budget does not include any new taxes or tax increases. Given the continued fiscal uncertainty we are facing, it is more important than ever that we take steps to ensure that revenues are being allocated efficiently and effectively, and that we are not adding to the financial burden faced by the Commonwealth’s residents. As we move forward in the budget process, it is critical that we not only prioritize maintaining the core state programs that service our children, seniors and veterans, but that we also do everything we can to assist our cities, towns and school districts. I look forward to reviewing the committee’s spending plan in further detail and working with my colleagues in the House Republican Caucus to pursue fiscally responsible amendments that will further protect the interests of our communities and the state’s taxpayers.”

House Minority Leader Jones’ Statement on Representative Flanagan's Arrest

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) released the following statement after federal authorities arrested Representative Christopher Flanagan (D-Dennis Port) on charges of defrauding his former employer and using the money for campaign expenses and his own personal use:

“Representative Flanagan’s arrest is disturbing but not surprising. We have known for several months about the ongoing investigation into these serious charges of misappropriating funds, but now that a court case is moving forward, it is clear what must be done. Representative Flanagan has betrayed his oath of office, and I am urging him to do the right thing for his constituents by resigning immediately. If he refuses to do so, then Speaker Mariano should immediately authorize and direct the House Ethics Committee to begin proceedings in this matter, as I had previously requested in January.”

Representative Marsi Appointed to Special Commission on Home Equity Theft Prevention

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative John J. Marsi (R-Dudley) to serve on a special commission that will conduct a comprehensive study of current state law and practices governing the collection of delinquent property tax revenue by cities and towns.

The special commission will consider potential changes to the new home equity theft law to further protect Massachusetts homeowners facing foreclosure due to unpaid property taxes and address concerns raised by the Massachusetts Municipal Association relative to the law’s three-year retroactive provisions and its potential impact on municipal property tax revenues.

Prior to the new law, cities and towns that foreclosed on a property to settle an unpaid tax debt could retain the full value of the property once it was sold, not just the amount of the original debt. Municipalities could also sell tax liens on delinquent properties to private investors, who were allowed to file for foreclosure with the Land Court once the debt was six months old and keep any profits from the property’s sale. A pair of recent court rulings found the law unconstitutional, leading to changes that were enacted last year to ensure that homeowners who are foreclosed on can recover the remaining balance of their home’s equity.

In 2023, the US Supreme Court ruled in the case of Tyler v. Hennepin County that a Minnesota statute similar to Massachusetts’ was unconstitutional because it denied reasonable compensation to a homeowner for the taking of their property. More recently, a judge in Hampden County ruled that the practices used in Massachusetts violated Article 10 of the state Constitution’s Declaration of Rights and the takings clause of the Fifth Amendment to the US Constitution. The case involved a Springfield homeowner with an unpaid property tax bill of $1,637 who entered into a payment agreement with the city at a 16% interest rate but was unable to keep up with the payments and eventually owed about $17,500 with interest, placing them at risk of losing their home, which was valued at approximately $230,000 and had over $200,000 in equity.

“The tax equity theft law enacted last year provides many important protections to homeowners, including stronger notification requirements, lower interest rates on past due taxes, and more favorable repayment plans, but there is always room for improvement,” said Representative Jones. “As a former selectman with an extensive budgeting background, John is well-positioned to help the commission find the proper balance between protecting municipalities’ financial interests and preventing homeowners from losing their homes.”

The commission is due to file a report with its findings and recommendations by December 31, 2025.

Marsi represents the 6^th Worcester District, which is comprised of Dudley; Southbridge; Precincts 1, 2, 3, and 4A in Charlton; and Precinct 1 in Spencer.

Representative Marcus Vaughn Re-appointed to Massachusetts Gaming Policy Advisory Committee

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has re-appointed State Representative Marcus S. Vaughn (R-Wrentham) to serve another two-year term as a member of the state’s Gaming Policy Advisory Committee (GPAC).

Created as part of the 2011 Expanded Gaming Act, the GPAC advises the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) on gaming policy issues, including community mitigation funding, addiction services for compulsive gambling, and the public safety impacts associated with the state’s gaming establishments. The committee also assists the MGC with the development of its annual gaming research agenda.

Representative Vaughn was first appointed to the GPAC in April of 2023, shortly after the state authorized legal sports betting, including online sports betting. On March 20, the MGC reported that gross gaming revenue at the state’s three casinos – Plainridge Park Casino, MGM Springfield and Encore Boston Harbor – totaled approximately $93.40 million in February, while taxable sports wagering revenue, including mobile and online betting, totaled approximately $65.57 million.

“With the continued growth of the Commonwealth’s gaming and sports betting industry, it’s important that proper safeguards remain in place to protect consumers and assist those who are struggling with compulsive gambling,” said Representative Jones. “Marcus has done a terrific job over the last two years helping to advise the Massachusetts Gaming Commission on the many critical issues impacting the industry, and I am confident he will continue to play an active role on the Advisory Committee to ensure that proper oversight and regulations are in place.”

In addition to his work on the GPAC, Representative Vaughn is also a member of the Special Working Group on Youth Sports, which is exploring potential changes to the regulations governing youth sports in the Commonwealth, including improved player safety standards, concussion protocols, and limits on the maximum number of hours youth athletes can participate in each sport during a specified time period. The working group is expected to file a report with its recommendations later this year.

For the 2025-2026 legislative session, Representative Vaughn is serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. He also serves as the Ranking Minority Member of the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security, the House Committee on Post Audit and Oversight, and the House Committee on Operations, Facilities and Security.

Representative Vaughn is currently serving his second term as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. He represents the 9^th Norfolk District, which consists of Precincts 3 and 4 in Medfield; Precinct 1in Millis; Precinct 5 in Walpole; and the towns of Norfolk, Plainville and Wrentham.

House Minority Leader Jones’ Statement on Today's Passage of $425 Million House Emergency Shelter Supplemental Budget

House MinorityLeader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) released the following statement on the $425 million emergency shelter supplemental budget approved by the House of Representatives today:

“The supplemental spending bill approved by the House today makes modest changes to the state’s troubled emergency shelter system, some of which are only temporary, but does little to address the many underlying problems associated with the program. Rather than implementing meaningful reforms that will guarantee the long-term financial stability of the program, all we are doing is continuing to pour money into a broken system, which continues to soak up limited state resources and crowd out other important spending priorities. There is no doubt in my mind that this is a stop-gap measure, and it is only a matter of time before the Healey-Driscoll Administration will be back again seeking additional funding. Before we commit more funding to this program, we should wait to see the results of the program audit that is currently being conducted by the state auditor’s office.

If the state is serious about correcting the deficiencies in the emergency housing assistance program, then we need to do more than just pay lip service to reform and embrace real change. The House Republican Caucus offered a series of amendments to enhance transparency, accountability, public safety and fiscal responsibility within the emergency shelter program and attempted to offer amendments authorizing law enforcement to honor ICE detainer requests for dangerous criminals, but those proposals were rejected by leadership. Establishing minimum residency requirements for accessing services and mandating comprehensive universal background checks for applicants beyond basic CORI checks are common-sense proposals that would truly make a difference. Instead, today’s House vote represents a missed opportunity to finally implement meaningful reforms to stabilize the emergency shelter program.”