Good Morning Westfield! I hope you have all had a fantastic week and enjoyed the nice weather we have been having. This week was certainly a busy one, as usual.
On Monday, the Joint Committee on Higher Education held a hearing at Westfield State to discuss issues pertaining to student debt. When the students in the audience were asked about how many were worried about paying for college, almost every hand was in the air. The price of college in this country is a major hurdle for many people in Western Mass, so I am happy that the committee was able to hold their hearing out here and meet some of the students. It was a great opportunity to see students actively get involved with their government and take action on a problem that is affecting so many.
On Wednesday, at the State House, we had formal session where we resumed discussions that we have been having over the budget. We were able to restore money to important programs such as rental assistance for families in transition, safe and supportive schools, suicide prevention, services for children and families, and the State Police. Many of these programs are vital to our state, whether they’re providing assistance to Mass residents who fall on hard times or keeping our Commonwealth safe, and I am proud that we were able to ensure their continued funding.
On Thursday, Square One, a local non-profit that supports struggling Western Mass families with child care, nutrition, and countless other services, held their annual tea party fundraiser. They are a fantastic organization and it’s always great to support such a critical service to our community. Continuing with the educational theme, on Thursday night, I attended an event at Westfield Technical Academy with the Special Education Parent Advisory Council, which was very special for me. I honestly would not have graduated high school if it weren’t for the special education teachers at Westfield High. The special education teachers and Paraprofessionals were willing to go the extra mile for me, helping me get to where I am today. Everyday these individuals do amazing work in helping these children realize their potential and I will do whatever I can in advocating for these children, special education teachers and Paraprofessionals.
In the upcoming few weeks, bills regarding criminal justice reform will be coming up for a vote. This is a topic that is not only taken a national spotlight. With an ever-changing world, new non-lethal weapons, and different forms of training, it is important that something like criminal justice incorporates the changes deemed necessary. I am also interested to see how the recent opioid epidemic will affect the proposed changes, as more and more addicts come into contact with law enforcement. We will have to see how it all shakes out.
That’s it for this week- as always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at (413) 572-3920 or [email protected]. Have a great week!
