January 2025 | The Stanley Report 

Dear Friend,

Happy New Year!

January'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 and the Massachusetts Legislature Achieve Significant Milestones  

As we look back on a productive legislative session, Rep. Stanley and his colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature made substantial progress on key issues affecting residents statewide. Guided by a commitment to addressing the most pressing challenges, the Legislature delivered impactful solutions in areas such as affordability, health care, housing and climate resilience.  

Major Accomplishments of the Legislature:

Historic Tax Relief: Passed the largest tax cut in a generation, providing permanent relief to families, seniors, renters, and low-income residents, while also reducing the estate tax, capital gains tax, and business taxes.  

Investments in Education and Childcare: Ensured free school meals for all public school students, made community college free for residents, and significantly increased funding to lower childcare costs.  

Transportation Enhancements: Delivered the largest-ever investment in the MBTA to improve public transit services.  

Support for Veterans and Seniors: Expanded benefits for veterans and Gold Star families, while enacting long-term care industry reforms to improve oversight, workforce support, and access for seniors.  

Public Health and Housing Advancements: Passed a maternal health bill and measures to combat the opioid crisis. Approved the largest investment in housing production in state history to address affordability and supply challenges.  

Clean Energy Leadership: Enacted legislation to reduce carbon emissions and support climate technology innovation, ensuring Massachusetts remains a hub for clean energy advancements.  

Economic Growth Initiatives: Approved an economic development bill providing critical support for workers, small businesses, and innovation sectors like clean energy and life sciences.  

Healthcare Accountability: Increased oversight of hospital financials, including private equity involvement, and strengthened protections for community hospitals. Introduced prescription drug reforms, including copayment caps for chronic condition treatments.  

Rep. Stanley, Legislature Pass Major Health Care Oversight Legislation, Regulates Private Equity

Representative Stanley joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate to pass legislation that will close loopholes in the health care market regulatory process exposed by the collapse of Steward Health Care, increase financial transparency by gathering more information regarding hospital finances, and assist in maintaining a more stable and sustainable health care system. Learn more.

“This legislation represents a critical step forward in protecting Massachusetts residents from the harmful consequences of unchecked financial practices in our health care system,” said Representative Thomas M. Stanley (D-Waltham). “By closing loopholes, enhancing transparency, and strengthening oversight, we are prioritizing patient care and ensuring that health care providers remain focused on the well-being of our communities. I am proud to support this bill, which reinforces our commitment

to a fair and sustainable health care system.”

Rep. Stanley Applauds Renaming of Executive Office of Elder Affairs to “Executive Office of Aging & Independence”

Governor Maura Healey signed legislation to rename the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to the Executive Office of Aging & Independence to better represent and reflect the values of older adults in Massachusetts. Renaming the agency reduces negative images around aging, normalizes aging as a natural process, and recognizes that older adults value independence and self-determination, while emphasizing that the Healey-Driscoll Administration is here to support residents as they age. In addition, the name change legislation replaces outdated language across state statutes, such as “elder,” “elderly person(s),” and “handicapped” with “older adult(s)” and “adult with a disability.” 

"Renaming the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to the Executive Office of Aging & Independence not only demonstrates the Commonwealth's commitment to serving our older adults but reflects that we are serious about addressing ageism in the state," said Representative Thomas M. Stanley (D-Waltham). "As the aging population grows in Massachusetts, we must redefine what it means to advance in age and celebrate the benefits of achieving longevity. I'm grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration, including Secretary Lipson and her team, for championing this change and look forward to the important work ahead for the new Executive Office of Aging & Independence."

Rep. Stanley, MA Legislature Pass Bill to Combat Substance Use Disorder

Rep. Stanley and his colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature approved legislation to combat the opioid crisis and support residents living with substance use disorder (SUD). The bill will expand non-opioid pain treatments, establish licenses for recovery coaches, and support pregnant people and their children who have been exposed to substances. It will vastly expand access to opioid-reversal drugs like naloxone. In 2023, 2,125 lives were lost as a result of an overdose, 232 fewer than in 2022, according to the Department of Public Health (DPH). Since 2023, naloxone has reversed more than 10,000 overdoses in Massachusetts.

The bill mandates that all health plans cover opioid reversal drugs such as naloxone and Narcan—without cost-sharing or prior authorization. It also requires hospitals and substance use treatment facilities to educate patients on opioid reversal drugs and prescribe or dispense at least two doses to at-risk patients upon discharge. It also requires pharmacies in areas with high incidences of overdoses to maintain a sufficient and consistent supply of opioid reversal drugs while requiring them to stock both over the counter and prescription versions.

Funding Opportunity Available for Environmental Justice Projects

Senator Edward Markey announced a major funding opportunity for local environmental justice organizations through a $48 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency, part of the Inflation Reduction Act’s environmental justice block grant program. Over the next three years, Environmental Justice for New England (EJforNE) will allocate these funds to address environmental hazards, promote climate resiliency, advance energy justice, and build healthier, more sustainable communities in underserved areas.

EJforNE—a partnership between Health Resources in Action, Alternatives for Community & Environment Inc., and the New England Grassroots Environment Fund—is accepting applications from projects in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Tribal Nations within EPA Region 1. Funding includes the Thriving Communities Seed Fund (up to $75,000 for smaller organizations) and Tiers 1-3 Sub-awards (grants of $150,000 to $350,000 for larger initiatives). Applications are due by February 14, 2025, at 5 PM. Learn more.

Waltham Receives $10,570 World Language Program Award

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education announced that Waltham will receive a $10,570 FY25 Proficiency-based Outcomes for Languages Other than English grant. This competitive grant program is one of the ways that DESE supports World Language, Heritage Language, Dual Language and English Learner programs and districts that wish to support or improve such programs in pre-K, elementary, and/or secondary schools. The grant program supports World Languages programs in schools, districts, and/or partnerships collect data as to how their implementation of the 2021 MA World Languages advances proficiency in students and partners with the Department's World Languages Advisory Team and the Heritage Languages Advisory Team (if applicable) to share and analyze data to improve programs and develop resources and to provide advice for potential upcoming guidance for varied world language programs.  

Five Waltham Organizations Awarded MCC Festivals & Projects Grants

Representative Tom Stanley is proud to announce that five Waltham organizations—ARTrelief, Brandeis University Division of Creative Arts, International Gugak Jazz Institute, LearnQuest, and Waltham Farmers' Market—have been selected as recipients of the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s (MCC) FY25 Festivals & Projects grants.

In this grant cycle, MCC awarded 740 grants, totaling $1.85 million, to support initiatives that celebrate, preserve, and inspire creativity across the Commonwealth. Each $2,500 grant funds activities in the arts, humanities, or sciences that provide meaningful public benefit. Congratulations to these outstanding Waltham organizations for their dedication to enriching our community!

Rep. Stanley Announces Mass Cultural Council Grants for Four Waltham Schools

Rep. Stanley announced that John F. Kennedy Middle School, Thomas R. Plympton Elementary School, Waltham Dual Language School and Henry Whittemore Elementary School will each receive a one-year grant of $5,000 through the Mass Cultural Council’s Creative Projects for Schools program. The program offers grants for school-based projects that foster creative learning experiences for K-12 students. 

Rep. Stanley Delivers Remarks at Wreaths Across America Ceremony

Rep. Stanley had the privilege of speaking at the Wreaths Across America ceremony held at Mount Feake Cemetery to honor and remember Waltham's veterans during this holiday season. This year’s theme, “Live with Purpose,” encouraged all participants to reflect deeply as they solemnly placed wreaths on the final resting places of our nation’s heroes. Continuing this meaningful tradition ensures that each generation honors and remembers the sacrifices made by those who served. The American Legion Band, Mayor McCarthy, Director of Veterans’ Services Mike Russo, Bentley University President Brent Chrite, and Bentley student Max Provencher also attended the ceremony. 

Rep. Stanley Celebrates WHS-Regis College Nursing Partnership

Rep. Stanley attended a signing ceremony at Waltham High School (WHS) establishing a partnership between Regis College’s Young School of Nursing and Waltham High School's Health Assisting Program. This partnership will establish an Early Direct Admission pathway to allow students early admission into Regis College Young School of Nursing as early as their junior at WHS, guaranteeing a $25,000 yearly scholarship. Julie Fournier, WHS Health Assisting Instructor, helped to establish this pivotal and innovative partnership. Joined by Mayor McCarthy, Superintendent Marisa Mendonsa, Regis College President Antoinette Hays, Principal Darrell Braggs and School Committee Members Deb Coleman and James Zanghi.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $8 Million to Expand Early College Programs

The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced that it is awarding $8 million in designated Early College grants to allow high school students to take college classes and earn college credit at no cost to them or their families. These funds will be used to support schools and higher education institutions as they design new Early College programs, as well as expand existing programs to provide an estimated additional 2,300 seats, increase staffing and recruitment, and provide professional development. Early college programs are a key part of the administration’s “Reimagining High School” initiative, ensuring Massachusetts students are prepared for college or careers when they graduate high school.

Waltham Partnership for Youth Offers Career Readiness Conference

Registration is open for Waltham Partnership for Youth (WPY) annual career readiness conference for Waltham residents in high school, 2025 Ready? Set? Job! is open! Ready? Set? Job! The event is for Waltham residents in high school and offers a unique opportunity for young people to learn essential life skills, such as financial literacy, and tools to help them navigate future careers. Students gain valuable insights and skills that can help them secure internships and thrive in the professional world. Additionally, participants will create or update their resume with a Waltham professional. The event will take place Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00-3:30 pm at Brookhaven at Lexington 1010 Waltham Street, Lexington, MA. Learn more.

Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism Unveils MA 250 Field Guide

The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) has introduced the MA 250 Field Guide, a comprehensive resource created to help organizations, businesses, and individuals develop special programming in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. This guide aims to inspire and support efforts across the Commonwealth, including within local districts. 

According to MOTT, the Field Guide offers "tools and inspiration needed to create memorable experiences," from special promotions and events to historical exhibits and educational programs. Download your free copy here. 

Waltham Police and Dedication to Community Host Free Workshops

The Waltham Police Department is partnering with Dedication to Community (D2C) to offer free community engagement workshops across the city in late January and early February 2025. These workshops are open to the public for individuals aged 18 and older. D2C is dedicated to fostering meaningful and supportive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. The workshops provide an opportunity for active listening, learning, and open dialogue to uncover solutions to the challenges that divide us. Learn more. 

MassDOT Alerts Customers of EZDriveMA Scam

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) reminds customers to be mindful of text message-based scams, also known as smishing. The scammers are claiming to represent the tolling agency and requesting payment for unpaid tolls. MassDOT urges customers to be cautious about email, text, and phone scams demanding payment of outstanding toll balances. Some attempts have been made to trick customers into sharing credit card numbers and other sensitive information by directing them to a website to pay their outstanding balances. MassDOT strongly encourages customers not to click the link contained in those messages.

Keep an eye out for your 2025 City Census!

The Waltham City Clerk's office has mailed the annual city census to all residential households. Please make sure to complete your form, accurately listing each of the residents at your address as of January 1, 2025. Responding keeps your voting status active and helps us provide better municipal services. Learn more.

National Grid Hosting Two Customer Advocate Events in Waltham

National Grid Customer Advocates will be available to meet one-on-one at McDevitt Middle School on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 and Tuesday, February 4, 2025 to discuss options to manage your energy bill and help you find assistance, including discounted rates, payment plans, budget plans and arrears management program. No appointment is needed. Learn more. 

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