February 2025 | The Stanley Report 

Dear Friend,

February's issue of The Stanley Report includes the latest news from Waltham and Beacon Hill.

As always, please feel free to contact me if you need assistance.

Sincerely,

Tom Stanley

Rep. Stanley attended a briefing and panel discussion on Profound Autism held by the Arc of Massachusetts. Rep. Stanley is grateful for the Arc's advocacy on behalf of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, and their families.

Rep. Stanley attended MassBIO's Policy and Leadership Breakfast, where Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll delivered welcoming remarks. During the event, Rep. Carole Fiola, a colleague of Rep. Stanley's, was honored as MassBIO's 2024 Legislator of the Year for her contributions to the life sciences industry.

Rep. Stanley attended the Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Executive Forum in Waltham. Gov. Healey was a featured guest and discussed her Administration's economic development agenda for the upcoming year. Pictured: Gov. Healey with AIM President and CEO Brooke Thomson.

Rep. Stanley joined U.S. state and federal legislators in a special meeting in the Dáil (House of Representatives) Chambers for the American Irish State Legislators Caucus in 2023 in Dublin, Ireland.

Rep. Stanley joined a number of his fellow legislators at the Irish American Fund's Women Leadership breakfast in welcoming their former colleague, Ambassador Claire Cronin, back to the US. Ambassador Cronin recently ended her tenure as Ambassador to Ireland.

Rep. Stanley attended a Black History Month Celebration with Governor Healey, Lt. Governor Driscoll, and the Black Empowerment Council in the Great Hall of Flags. Rep. Stanley is pictured with Representatives (from L-R), Rep. Brandy Fluker-Reid, Rep. Chynah Tyler, Rep. David Vieira, Rep. Paul Donato, Rep. Kate Lipper-Garabedian, and Rep. Tram Nguyen.  

Rep. Stanley Sponsors Home Care Industry Briefing

Rep. Stanley sponsored a briefing on the home care industry with Rep. Gentile and Sen. Jehlen. The briefing was held by the Enough Pay to Stay Coalition, a partnership among The Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts, Home Care Aide Council and Mass Aging Access. In addition to ensuring adequate reimbursement rates and benefits for providers, the coalition is focused on securing funding in a supplement budget to prevent a shortfall that could limit older adults from accessing home care services.

Facing a projected $50 million funding gap for home care and home health services, providers across Massachusetts are urging state leaders to take action to support the growing population of older residents. Rep. Stanley has been actively engaging with legislative leadership and the Healey administration to address the shortfall. With one in five Massachusetts residents expected to be over 65 by 2040, home care providers stress the need for sustainable funding to ensure quality care and workforce stability. As discussions continue, providers await key decisions on 2025 service rates and potential relief through a supplemental budget.

Pictured from left to right are Julia Watt Faqir, Executive Director of the Home Care Aide Council; Jake Krilovich, Executive Director of the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts; Rep. Gentile; Rep. Stanley; Rep. Ayers; Harrison Collins, Director of Legislative Affairs for the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts; Ellen Taintor, Assistant Director of Mass Aging Access; and Betsey Crimmins, Executive Director of Mass Aging Access.

Learn More about the Massachusetts Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit

The Massachusetts Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit was designed by the Legislature to help provide tax relief for older adults. Rep. Stanley’s office designed a brochure to help constituents learn more about the credit and its requirements. This brochure is not an official tax document. If you have questions regarding the Circuit Breaker Tax Credit, please contact a tax professional or the Department of Revenue at 1-800-392-6089. Learn more. 

Rep. Stanley Attends Hearing on Combatting Antisemitism

Rep. Stanley attended a public hearing held by the Special Commission on Combatting Antisemitism. Established via an outside section to the FY25 budget, the Commission is tasked with making recommendations to the Legislature on how to implement the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, including increasing awareness and understanding of antisemitism, and improving safety and security for Jewish communities. According to a 2024 report from ADL New England, Massachusetts recorded 440 antisemitic incidents in 2023, a nearly 200% increase from 2002 an the 5th highest number of antisemitic incidents in the US. Rep. Stanley looks forward to the Commission's final report due November 2025. For a list of the Commission's members and hearings, click here.

Waltham Public Library Receives $100,000 for planning and design

Rep. Stanley announced that the Waltham Public Library advanced into the second phase of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) Public Library Construction Program. This critical phase, focused on planning and design, marks a significant milestone in the library’s journey. As part of this phase, the library has been awarded a $100,000 planning and design grant by the MBLC. This funding will support the development of a comprehensive library design that aligns with community priorities, modern library standards, and sustainable building practices.

Rep. Stanley Meets with Brain Injury Advocates

Rep. Stanley recently met with Waltham constituent and other advocates at the State House during the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts Advocacy Day. Advocates shared their support for continued funding to ensure brain injury survivors and caregivers have access to high-quality care and essential services, including community rehabilitation centers. Learn more about the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts here.  

Rep. Stanley Joins Panel on Government at Brandeis University

Rep. Stanley joined a panel discussion, “It’s Not All About the President: Engaging with Local and State Government” at Brandeis University. He joined Mayor McCarthy and Ward 7 City Councilor (and Brandeis alum) Paul Katz to share their experiences in public service, discuss the critical role of local and state government, and explore ways for students to get involved in civic affairs.

A special thanks to Brandeis Undergraduate Student Union President Rani Balakrishna, Assistant Director of ENACT David Weinstein, Juliahna Falciglia-Mattes, and the VoteDeis Campus Coalition for organizing and hosting this important conversation.

Rep. Stanley Signs International Holocaust Remembrance Day Resolution

Rep. Stanley cosigned a House resolution recognizing International Holocaust Remembrance Day. On November 1, 2005, the United Nations General Assembly designated January 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day (IHRD). The date marks the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration and Extermination Camp and reaffirms that the Holocaust, which resulted in the murder of one third of the Jewish people, along with countless members of other minorities, will forever be a warning to all people of the dangers of hatred, bigotry, racism and prejudice.

Waltham Public Schools Receive DESE grant

Rep. Stanley announced that Waltham Public Schools received a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to support our World Languages programs. These funds will strengthen students' multi-lingual skills across the district. For more info on this grant program, click here. 

Rep. Stanley Goes Red for Women Day

On Feb. 5, Rep. Stanley joined his colleagues for “Go Red for Women Day” at the State House. Legislators and staff wore red to raise awareness of the more than 350,000 cardiac arrests that occur each year while supporting the American Heart Association -- Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators and raise awareness.

Rep. Stanley Speaks at Massachusetts Caregiver Coalition Meeting

Rep. Stanley was a guest speaker during the monthly meeting of the Massachusetts Caregiver Coalition, a public-private partnership of business and employer groups focused on the issue of caregiving in the workforce. Spearheaded by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, the Caregiving Coalition's goal is to promote more caregiver friendly policies in the workplace. 

Rep. Stanley shared some Elder Affairs Committee highlights from last session as well as legislation he is filing this session that would strengthen the continuum of care for older adult, helping to reduce the reliance on family caregivers and reduce their caregiving burden. Click here to learn more about the Massachusetts Caregiver Coalition, including resources for caregivers.

Rep. Stanley attends Civil Air Patrol Briefing at State House

Rep. Stanley attended a briefing on the Massachusetts Wing Civil Air Patrol (U.S. Air Force Auxiliary). Established in 1941, Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a public service organization chartered by Congress that functions both as a nonprofit and the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force.

Operating as a nonprofit, CAP provides an array of K-12 aerospace and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) curriculum and educational products for members and teachers; offers youth character, leadership, and career development opportunities; and provides essential community service for federal, state, and local agencies in the air and on the ground.

New Fact Sheets: How Does Medicaid Impact Massachusetts?

How does Medicaid help Massachusetts? Check out this fact sheet from The Commonwealth Fund. Hopefully one of the silver linings from the possibility of Medicaid funding being included in the ill-conceived government freeze order is the united backlash from states (red and blue) and health care stakeholders, making future cuts to this critical program much more difficult to advance. Medicaid not only increases access to health care services, but is essential to supporting our hospitals and providers, including nursing homes (~7/10 nursing home residents in MA are on MassHealth).

Spend Your Summer in the Sun—Become a DCR Lifeguard!

Looking for a rewarding summer job that lets you work outside, earn competitive pay, and make a difference in your community? The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is hiring lifeguards for waterfronts and pools across the Commonwealth!  

As a DCR lifeguard, you'll be part of a team dedicated to keeping swimmers safe while enjoying the benefits of working outdoors. Learn more and apply today.  

Grant Opening: Community One Stop for Growth

The Healey Administration, along with the Executive Offices of Economic Development (EOED) and Housing and Livable Communities (HLC), has launched the FY26 Community One Stop for Growth application. This streamlined portal allows municipalities and organizations to apply for 12 state economic development grant programs. 

One Stop grants support housing and economic development projects, including community activation, planning, site preparation, and infrastructure. Interested applicants can participate in the optional Expression of Interest process now through March 26 for guidance on priority projects. Full applications will be accepted from May 5 to June 4, with awards announced in the fall. Click here to learn more and apply.  

Apply Now: 2025 City of Waltham Scholarship

The 2025 City of Waltham Scholarship applications are now available! Established in 1987, this scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible Waltham residents pursuing college, trade school, certificate programs, graduate school and other approved educational opportunities. 

Applications are due by February 14, 2025. Residents can apply online while graduating seniors should pick up an application in the Waltham High School Guidance Department. For questions, contact the Treasurer’s Office at (781) 314-3259. Scholarship awards will be announced in June and distributed at the start of the spring semester. Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your future!

Lowe’s Hometowns: Grant Opportunity for Community Revitalization

Lowe’s is excited to launch the fourth year of Lowe’s Hometowns, a five-year, $100 million initiative to revitalize community spaces. In 2024, Lowe’s will award $10 million in grants to fund 100 renovation projects nationwide. Since 2022, this program has transformed spaces that serve as community hubs, from youth centers and fire stations to parks and veterans’ facilities.

Nonprofits can apply for funding to improve housing facilities, community resources, outdoor spaces, and cultural sites. Nominations are open through February 18—submit a project at Lowes.com/Hometowns and help strengthen your community!

Waltham Fire Department Receives $35K grant

The City of Waltham received a $35,000 Department of Fire Services (DFS) FY25 firefighter safety equipment grant award. This program provides reimbursement to fire departments for the purchase of essential firefighter turnout gear, hoses, nozzles, communications equipment, hand tools, and more.

A total of 273 local fire departments will share in more than $4.5 million in funding, with awards ranging from $4,502.88 to $50,000.00. Over 100 types of equipment were eligible for reimbursement, with scoring focused on those items that help departments meet current National Fire Protection Association and Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards.

Rep. Stanley meets with Waltham Constituent on MassBike Lobby Day

Rep. Stanley recently met with Waltham constituent Mark Vdovychenko during the MassBike lobby day at the State House. Mark, who recently moved to Waltham, shared his ideas on green infrastructure improvement initiatives and bicycle lanes implementation. Welcome to Waltham, Mark!

Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism Celebrates Massachusetts’ 250th Anniversary

The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) is celebrating “Massachusetts 250,” the state's celebration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Click here to learn more about celebrations throughout the state including revolutionary weekends, museums and lunch and learns. 

Rep. Stanley meets with Waltham constituents for Head Start Advocacy Day at State House

Rep. Stanley met with the local Head Start, Waltham Creative Start (a part of Communities United, Inc.) to discuss their early education program, in addition to their essential wraparound services such as health, mental health, nutrition, and family support/resources to families in Waltham, some of whom are experiencing homelessness in vulnerable situations. Waltham Creative Start currently serves more than 70 students and their families in the community. Learn more.

Waltham Community Survey!

Waltham residents: Have you received services from a Waltham agency to meet basic needs? Help shape the future of our community! Share your experiences & suggestions in this short survey. Your input matters!

Regan's Corner

Meet Regan! Rep. Stanley and his family rescued a pup and named her Regan. Regan loves long walks, playing games in the yard, making friends and lounging with Rep. Stanley!

Help an animal find a home! Learn more about The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) and ways you can help.

The Animal Rescue League continues to support legislation that enhances and improves protections for animals, and to oppose reforms that endanger the welfare of animals in Massachusetts. Learn more about ARL's current legislative agenda here.

About Rep. Stanley

State Representative

City Council

Former City Council President

State Committee:

Co-Chairperson, Joint Committee on Elder Affairs

Member of:

Rest Homes Task Force

Special Legislative Commission on Continuing Care Retirement Communities

Massachusetts Advisory Council on Alzheimer’s Disease and All Other Dementias

City Council:

Veterans Committee

Economic Development Committee

Committee of the Whole

Education: Suffolk University (MPA), Bentley University (BS - Management), Mass Bay Community College (AS - Business Administration)

Community Involvement (Past & Present):

Waltham Boys & Girls Club, Waltham Youth Basketball Association, Basketball Plus Program, Central Middle School Basketball, Little Nippers Baseball, Warrendale Little League, Waltham Youth Soccer, Waltham Police Athletic League, CCD Teacher, St. Jude Church, Waltham Lions Club, Waltham Rotary Club, Reagle Players Board of Directors, Warrendale Little League Board of Directors, Waltham Partnership for Youth Board of Directors, Waltham Day Center (Homeless) Advisors Board, Waltham Family School Advisory Board, Waltham Safe & Healthy Schools YRBS Steering Committee, Reach Beyond Domestic Violence Advisory Board, Waltham Public Library Planning Committee, Waltham Sons of Italy, Middlesex Area Enough Abuse Campaign

Awards: 

Work, Community, Independence - Human Service Advocate of the Year, COFAR - award recipient for support of people with mental disabilities, MassBay Community College Distinguished Alumni Award WATCH CDC - Housing Advocate Award, Minuteman Senior Services - Certificate of Appreciation, Boston Bar Assoc., Greater Boston Legal Services and MetroWest Legal Services - Pillar of Justice Award, Shining Star Award, Edinburg Center, Community Health Center Leader Award, The Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, Dignity Award Certificate of Appreciation,

Home Care Ally Award, Home Care Aid Council,

Massachusetts State Association of PACE Programs (MassPACE) 2024 State Champion,

Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (Mass-ALA) Policymaker of the Year Award,

Massachusetts Police Association’s Legislator of the Year Award,

LeadingAge Massachusetts 2024 Aging Services Champion Award,

Dignity Alliance Legislative Champion

Personal:

Married to the former Kimberly A. Bayliss

Children: Ryan, age 30, Parker, age 21 & puppy Regan