Representative Sweezey Appointed to Serve on Environmental Bond Bill Conference Committee

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative Kenneth P. Sweezey (R-Duxbury) to serve on a six-member conference committee that will conduct negotiations on a multi-billion dollar environmental bond bill designed to provide cities and towns with the resources needed to address the impacts of climate change.

House Bill 5518, An Act to build resilience for Massachusetts communities, was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 151-0 on June 17. The bill is a redraft of Senate Bill 3064, which passed the Senate on April 15 by a vote of 36-3.

Both versions of the bill include funding to assist municipalities in addressing a variety of environmental concerns, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in drinking water, dam repair and removal, coastal resilience, flood mitigation, and habitat restoration. In addition to determining final funding levels, the conference committee will reconcile several key policy differences between the House and Senate bills, including proposals related to Sunday hunting, plastic bag regulations, paint stewardship, and other environmental initiatives.

The Senate version, for example, includes a controversial proposal to ban single-use plastic bags by retailers and limit the use of disposable utensils and other plastic items in the food service industry. The Senate has also proposed a new fee on paint sales to fund a statewide paint recycling program. Neither of these proposals were included in the House bill. The House also adopted language repealing the Commonwealth's longstanding prohibition on Sunday hunting, which supporters argue would expand recreational opportunities, improve wildlife management, and bring Massachusetts in line with nearly every other state. The Senate bill does not include this provision, making it one of several policy differences to be resolved in conference.

“As the Ranking Minority Member on the Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, Ken is well-versed on the issues impacting communities that the environmental bond bill seeks to address,” said Representative Jones. “I am confident he will work with his fellow conferees to build consensus on a final bill that allocates state resources prudently and effectively to help achieve positive results for our cities and towns.”

Representative Sweezey enters the conference committee following a successful House debate in which he secured and supported several investments benefiting the 6th Plymouth District. The House version of the bill includes $400,000 for the North and South Rivers Watershed Association to support permitting and early construction related to the Chandler Pond Dam removal project in Marshfield. It also includes $320,000 for the Association's River Center public access project in Pembroke, $550,000 for the replacement of the Park Street culvert in Pembroke, and $40,000 to support the North River Commission's enforcement of the North River Protective Order.

“I want to thank Leader Jones for entrusting me with this important responsibility,” said Representative Sweezey. “This legislation has the potential to make meaningful investments in clean water, coastal resilience, PFAS remediation, dam safety, and environmental restoration across the Commonwealth. I'm especially proud that the House bill already includes several priorities for our district, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to preserve those investments while reaching a balanced final agreement.”

Representative Sweezey most recently served on a conference committee that negotiated a $1.56 billion supplemental budget agreement allocating surplus Fair Share surtax revenues for a variety of education and transportation initiatives across the state. That bill was enacted on June 4 and signed into law by Governor Maura Healey on June 12 as Chapter 101 of the Acts of 2026. 

This appointment marks Representative Sweezey's second conference committee assignment during his first term in the House of Representatives. Based on available records, it is believed to be the first time a freshman member has been appointed to two conference committees in a single legislative session.

HAPPY 250TH BIRTHDAY, AMERICA!

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

These inspiring words appear in the Declaration of Independence, which was signed on July 4, 1776 by members of the Second Continental Congress, marking the original 13 colonies’ decision to break free from British rule and establish a sovereign nation. Two hundred and fifty years later, these words continue to serve as a beacon of hope and promise for all who read them.

Today, the Massachusetts House Republican Caucus joins with Americans everywhere to celebrate the signing of this historic document that gave birth to the United States of America. The caucus wishes everyone a very Happy Fourth of July!

Memorial Day: Remembering and Honoring Those Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice for Our Nation

Looking across this field, we see the scale of heroism and sacrifice. All who are buried here understood their duty. All stood to protect America. And all carried with them memories of a family that they hoped to keep safe by their sacrifice. – Former President George W. Bush in his 2005 Memorial Day remarks at Arlington National Cemetery

On Memorial Day, the members of the Massachusetts House Republican Caucus join with Americans everywhere to offer our eternal gratitude and thanks to the many men and women throughout our nation’s history who have answered the call to serve and made the ultimate sacrifice. Their selfless actions on behalf of the Commonwealth and our nation are the reason we continue to enjoy the many freedoms and liberties we hold dear but too often take for granted. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and they remain in our thoughts today, along with the loved ones they left behind.

Representative Vaughn appointed to serve on PROTECT Act conference committee

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative Marcus S. Vaughn (R-Wrentham) to serve on a six-member conference committee that will work to reconcile the differences between the House and Senate versions of an immigrant protection bill designed to impose restrictions on federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions in Massachusetts.

An Act promoting rule of law, oversight, trust and equal constitutional treatment, also known as the PROTECT Act, was initially approved by the House on March 25 as House Bill 5316. The Senate passed its own version of the bill on May 7 as Senate Bill 3086.

Both bills would prohibit state and local law enforcement officers from inquiring about an individual’s immigration or citizenship status except in narrow, documented circumstances. They would also prevent law enforcement officers from using state or local resources to carry out a federal civil immigration enforcement action.

Despite the similarities, there are also clear differences between the House and Senate bills. For example, while the House version establishes courthouses as protected spaces where ICE cannot make arrests and directs state agencies to develop policies and procedures for other facilities such as schools and hospitals, the Senate version expands these protected spaces to explicitly include courthouses, school grounds, childcare centers, hospitals, and places of worship.

Unlike the House bill, the Senate bill prohibits the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) from entering into 287(g) agreements with ICE, which are used to delegate certain immigration enforcement powers to state and local law enforcement officials. The Senate version also establishes a private right to action for individuals to sue under state law if they feel ICE has violated their constitutional rights, while also prohibiting out-of-state military personnel from entering the Commonwealth without the Governor’s approval.

The House bill, unlike the Senate version, includes provisions providing inmates in correctional facilities with access to immigration legal services while also allowing justices, clerks, and bail commissioners to consider the likelihood of imminent deportation when determining whether releasing someone from custody will reasonably ensure their appearance before the court.

“As a member of the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, Marcus was directly involved with the drafting of the original PROTECT Act and has been closely monitoring its progress as it has moved through the House and Senate and has undergone significant changes,” said Representative Jones. “Working with his fellow conferees as they attempt to reach a compromise between the two legislative branches, I anticipate Marcus will do everything he can to try to strike the right balance between guaranteeing everyone due process and protecting the public from the most dangerous criminals.”

Joining Vaughn on the conference committee are Representatives Daniel Cahill (D-Lynn) and Andres Vargas (D-Haverhill), as well as Senators Cindy Friedman (D-Arlington), Pavel Payano (D-Lawrence) and Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton).

First elected in November of 2022, Vaughn is currently in his second term as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. In addition to serving as a member of the House and Joint Committees on Ways and Means and the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, Vaughn is also the Ranking Minority Member on 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.

Vaughn 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.

Representative Sweezey named to Fair Share supplemental budget conference committee

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative Kenneth P. Sweezey (R-Duxbury) to serve on a six-member conference committee that will work to reconcile the differences between competing versions of a supplemental budget that allocates surplus Fair Share surtax revenues for a variety of education and transportation initiatives across the state.

The House passed its version of the supplemental budget on March 18 by a vote of 150-3, while the Senate approved its version on April 9 by a vote of 35-4. Both bills authorize $1.8 billion in total spending, mostly from surtax revenues, but differ on how this funding will be distributed. They also take different approaches on how Massachusetts should respond to recent federal tax law changes.

The House bill calls for $885 million to go towards public transportation and $417 million to be used for public education, while also addressing deficiencies in several state budget accounts for Fiscal Year 2026. The Senate bill sets aside $753 million for transportation and $591 million for education, including $25 million to encourage school consolidations in rural communities as a cost-saving measure.

“Ken has been a staunch advocate for making sure taxpayer dollars are being spent efficiently and effectively and not being wasted,” said Representative Jones. “I am confident he will do a great job on the conference committee to ensure that the surplus surtax revenues will be put to good use to support the Commonwealth’s transportation infrastructure and education system.”

“I want to thank Leader Jones for entrusting me with this important responsibility,” said Representative Sweezey. “For the Fair Share surtax to have a positive impact, we must at least ensure that our schools are reaping the benefits, and the funds are distributed to all communities and do not leave anyone behind. I look forward to the negotiations and working with my colleagues for a balanced consensus.”

Joining Representative Sweezey on the conference committee are House Ways and Means Chairman Aaron Michlewitz (D-Boston), Representative Kip Diggs (D-Barnstable), Senate Ways and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues (D-Westport), and Senators Joanne Comerford (D-Northampton) and Patrick O'Connor (R-Weymouth).

Representative Sweezey currently serves as the Ranking Minority Member on both the Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources and the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development. He is also a member of the House Committee on Human Resources and Employee Engagement, the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, and the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security.

Elected to the House of Representatives in November of 2024, Representative Sweezey represents the 6th Plymouth District, which is comprised of the town Duxbury; Precinct 2 of the town of Halifax; Precincts 2 and 3 of the town of Hanson; Precincts 2A and 4 of the town of Marshfield; and Precincts 1, 2, 3A, 4, and 5 of the town of Pembroke.

Representative Xiarhos Appointed to Task Force on Hate Crimes

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones Jr. (R–North Reading) has appointed State Representative Steven G. Xiarhos (R–Barnstable) to serve on the Task Force on Hate Crimes, replacing State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R–Seekonk), who has served on the task force since 2022.

Members of the task force serve in an advisory capacity and assist the state in developing policies for preventing and responding to hate crimes. The task force works with law enforcement agencies, school districts, and state and municipal officials to identify ways to improve the prevention, investigation, and prosecution of hate crimes, while ensuring that individuals and communities targeted by these crimes receive support. It also provides technical assistance to school districts interested in incorporating hate crime education into their curriculum.

“Steven has an extensive background of four decades of service working in law enforcement, so he understands the important role police officers play in investigating hate crimes and protecting the public,” said Representative Jones. “His expertise in this area will serve him well as he works with his fellow task force members to strengthen the state’s response to hate crimes and support for victims.”

“After four decades in law enforcement, I know how important it is that every person in every community feels safe and protected,” said Representative Xiarhos. “Hate crimes not only harm individuals, they strike at the very heart of our communities. I am honored to serve on this task force and look forward to working with law enforcement, educators, and community leaders to prevent these crimes, support victims, and ensure that hate has no place in Massachusetts. It is especially meaningful to serve alongside Gina Kwon, Secretary of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, and Josh Kraft, president of the New England Patriots Foundation, whose leadership and commitment to strengthening our communities will help guide this important work.”

According to a state report released in December 2025, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) received 467 reports of hate crime incidents in 2024 from 82 municipal police departments, 13 campus police organizations, and the State Police. Although the total number of reported incidents was down from the 557 hate crimes reported in 2023, the 147 reported instances of anti-Jewish hate crimes were the highest in at least two decades, representing an almost 24% increase over the previous year.

The task force was initially created under the administration of William Weld and Paul Cellucci in 1991 as the Governor’s Task Force on Hate Crimes and was later formalized under Executive Order 401, issued by Governor Cellucci on December 5, 1997. Former Governor Charlie Baker reconstituted the task force through Executive Order 578 on November 6, 2017, and in 2021 it was formally established in statute by the Massachusetts Legislature as part of the Fiscal Year 2022 state budget.

The task force, which is currently co-chaired by EOPSS Secretary Gina Kwon and Josh Kraft, president of the New England Patriots Foundation, includes representatives of victim assistance agencies, advocates for communities affected by hate crimes, district attorneys’ offices, and state, local, and university police departments, as well as legislators, including the House and Senate chairs of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary and the Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights and Inclusion. The task force is required to meet at least four times a year and is responsible for filing an annual report by December 31 containing its recommendations for legislative, regulatory, and policy changes to combat hate crimes.

Representative Xiarhos currently serves as the Ranking Minority Member on the Joint Committee on Emergency Preparedness and Management and the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery. He is also a member of the House and Joint Committees on Ways and Means, as well as the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security.

Representative Bradley Jones Announces He Will Not Seek Re-election to the Massachusetts House of Representatives

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) released the following statement today:

After 32 years serving in the House of Representatives, I have decided that I will not seek re-election to another term this fall.

Serving as State Representative has been a tremendously meaningful part of my life, and while difficult to leave behind, I eagerly look forward to my next chapter. It is a profound and distinct honor for which I will be eternally grateful. Representing the community where I was born and raised has made this even more of a privilege.

Thank you to my constituents for allowing me to serve them for over three decades, electing me 17 times. I am very proud to have maintained my perfect voting record since I first took the oath of office on March 22, 1994. As of last count, it is over 8,180 roll call votes. I believe this is a reflection of my commitment to my constituents.

I have served and worked with many extraordinary local public officials, community volunteers, and committed advocates over the years. Together, we have brought countless local initiatives and projects to completion, improving the facilities and services across the district. Thank you for welcoming me into your homes, inviting me into your neighborhoods, letting me celebrate milestones with you, and including me in community celebrations throughout my four towns.

My colleagues in the Republican caucus have afforded me the rare privilege to serve as Minority Leader since 2002, allowing me to be even more impactful in my service. Working with so many talented and dedicated members, often across the aisle, on a wide range of important issues over the years has been rewarding and inspiring.

I have been extremely fortunate to have had so many remarkable staff members support me over the years. Constituent service has always been paramount, and together, we have assisted thousands of residents and helped them navigate state agencies.

Until my term concludes next January, I will continue to represent the people of Lynnfield, Middleton, North Reading, & Reading with the same commitment and passion. Thank you again for the honor of representing the 20th Middlesex District and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Representative Marsi Appointed to Serve on Student Literacy Bill Conference Committee

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative John J. Marsi (R-Dudley) to serve on a six-member legislative conference committee focused on improving student literacy in Massachusetts.

Marsi is one of three Representatives and three Senators serving on the conference committee, which will work to resolve the differences between recent House and Senate legislation seeking to overhaul the state’s education curriculum to ensure that all students are proficient in reading. Joining Marsi on the conference committee are Representatives Kenneth Gordon (D-Bedford) and Simon Cataldo (D-Concord) and Senators Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett), Jason Lewis (D-Winchester) and Patrick O'Connor (R-Weymouth).

The House passed its version of An Act relative to teacher preparation and student literacy (House Bill 4683) on October 29, while the Senate engrossed its version (Senate Bill 2940) on January 29. Both versions passed unanimously in their respective branches.

The two bills call for twice-yearly screenings of students in kindergarten through grade 3 to test their reading abilities and require that parents and guardians be notified if these screenings show their child has fallen significantly below the relevant grade level benchmarks. The bills also require school districts’ curriculums to incorporate “evidence-based literacy instruction” approved by the state, including “phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension,” but would allow districts to seek waivers to teach an alternative method that is evidence-based and meets quality standards determined by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

One key difference between the two early literacy bills is the House version specifically prohibits school districts from using certain instructional methods such as “three-cueing” which is defined in the bill as “implicit and incidental instruction in word reading, visual memorization of whole words, guessing from context and picture cues” to help students identify words. The Senate bill also contains a provision, not found in the House version, that would create an Early Literacy Fund and initially provide $25 million for DESE to use to develop a K-3 curriculum and provide support to school districts.

“As the Ranking Minority Member of the Joint Committee on Education, John will play an important role on the conference committee as it works to reconcile the differences between the two bills,” said Representative Jones. “Drawing on his expertise and working collaboratively with his fellow conferees, I am confident John will do everything he can to reach a consensus on the policy reforms needed to ensure that every young student across the Commonwealth has the proper instructional materials to succeed in developing their reading skills.”

In addition to his role as the Ranking Minority Member of the Joint Committee on Education, Marsi also currently serves on the House and Joint Ways and Means Committees, the Joint Committee on Children, Families & Persons with Disabilities, and the Joint Committee on Transportation.

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

House Minority Leader Jones' Statement on Filing of Federal SNAP Fraud Charges Against Four Massachusetts Residents

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) released the following statement today after U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Leah Foley announced charges against four Massachusetts residents for SNAP fraud:

“At a time when so many families are struggling to put food on the table, it is an outrage to hear that taxpayer dollars meant to support such a vital safety net program are going to individuals who don’t qualify for or deserve assistance. Even more disturbing is how lackadaisical the Healey Administration’s response has been since it learned of this scheme. According to the U.S. Attorney’s office, Rhode Island officials uncovered clear evidence of fraud occurring within the SNAP program and notified Massachusetts’ Department of Transitional Assistance in June of 2024, which allowed DTA to identify $115,000 in fraudulent SNAP benefits that had already been paid out. Rather than immediately notifying the U.S. Department of Agriculture about this and trying to recover these funds, DTA simply shut down the accounts when it should have instead been working with federal officials to identify these individuals and prevent them from continuing to illegally obtain benefits. This is a disgrace and an indictment of the Healey Administration. The governor’s unwillingness to share information on SNAP beneficiaries with federal officials is unacceptable and opens the door to continued fraud and abuse. Governor Healey needs to correct this immediately by expediting the use of EBT card chips authorized by the Legislature last year and by directing DTA to take additional steps to ensure that taxpayer dollars are protected and resources remain available to those who are truly in need, not for those individuals who are trying to defraud the system. Those additional steps should include the implementation of an annual audit of DTA that would require a review of benefits, including out of state use, as the House Republican Caucus proposed during the Fiscal Year 2026 budget debate. I would also like to know the status of DTA’s planned investments in enhanced security measures like encryption and fraud protection that the Commissioner highlighted in his budget testimony last March. Ironically, Governor Healey has language in her Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal that would extend the length of time between audits of government entities from three years to five years. That would be a huge mistake and would only open the door to more fraud and abuse going undetected.”

Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

“Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. Hate multiplies hate, violence multiplies violence, and toughness multiplies toughness in a descending spiral of destruction.” – the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the Massachusetts House Republican Caucus honors the life and legacy of Dr. King, the pioneering civil rights leader who advocated for the use of non-violent means to fight injustice. In his short life, he showed how one person can make a real difference to help bring about positive change for all Americans.

"A Date Which Will Live In Infamy": Remembering Pearl Harbor, 84 Year Later

On December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service launched a surprise attack on the U.S. military base at Pearl Harbor, killing 2,335 American service members and 68 civilians, while leaving another 1,178 injured. In an address to Congress the following day, President Franklin D. Roosevelt would declare the attack as “a date which will live in infamy.”

Today, 84 years later, there are only a handful of Pearl Harbor survivors still alive. But their service to our nation, and their fallen fellow service members who made the ultimate sacrifice, will never be forgotten. On National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, the House Republican Caucus honors those who perished on that fateful day and offers its enduring gratitude to all who have served in our nation’s military to help safeguard the many freedoms we hold dear.

Veterans Day 2025: Honoring All Who Served

As Americans, we sadly often take for granted the many personal freedoms and liberties we enjoy. But we should never forget that those freedoms and liberties would not have been secured without the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.

The late U.S. Army General Colin L. Powell, in a speech he delivered at the 1989 Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, noted that:

“The celebration of Veterans Day is a vivid reminder of the price which has been paid for the liberty we enjoy. It is also an appropriate time to reflect on the burden we all share in ensuring our children, and their children, enjoy that same liberty.”

As we observe Veterans Day, the Massachusetts House Republican Caucus salutes all of our servicemembers, both past and present, and thanks them for their service. Although we can never fully repay our debt to our veterans, we must never forget the important role they have played throughout our nation’s history to keep our country free.

September 11, 2001: Twenty-four Years Later, We Still Remember ... and We Will Never Forget

“One of the worst days in America’s history saw some of the bravest acts in Americans’ history. We’ll always honor the heroes of 9/11. And here at this hallowed place, we pledge that we will never forget their sacrifice.” — President George W. Bush, speaking at the dedication of the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial on September 11, 2008.

Twenty-four years have passed since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, which claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 Americans, including hundreds of first responders. The House Republican Caucus continues to honor the memories of those who were tragically taken from their family, friends and loved ones on that fateful day. We will never forget them.

HAPPY 249TH BIRTHDAY, AMERICA!

Freedom is one of the deepest and noblest aspirations of the human spirit. – President Ronald Reagan, in his Second Inaugural Address delivered on January 21, 1985

On July 4, 1776 – exactly 249 years ago today – the original 13 colonies declared their freedom from British rule to establish the United States of America. The signing of the Declaration of Independence was a watershed event that continues to serve as a source of inspiration and a beacon of hope for people around the world.

As we gather today with friends and family at barbeques and parades across Massachusetts, let us not forget the many sacrifices that have been made, and continue to be made, by our servicemen and women to help preserve the many freedoms we enjoy, which trace their roots back to this historic day nearly 2 ½ centuries ago.

The Massachusetts House Republican Caucus wishes everyone a very Safe and Happy Fourth of July!

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.”