July 2024 | The Stanley Report 

Dear Friend,

July'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 his son Ryan celebrating Waltham Riverfest.

Congratulations

 to the 2023-24 Boston Celtics for Banner 18!

 Rep. Stanley joined his colleagues on the LGBTQ+ Caucus for the Annual Flag Raising Event at the State House to kick off Pride Month in the Commonwealth.

Rep. Stanley, Massachusetts House Pass Comprehensive Maternal Health Bill

On Thursday, June 20, 2024, Rep. Stanley and the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed a comprehensive maternal health bill which creates a state licensure pathway for midwives and lactation consultants, encourages the creation of more freestanding birth centers, and mandates that certain health care professionals perform, and that health insurers provide coverage for, postpartum depression screenings.

The legislation creates a state license that midwives must receive in order to practice midwifery, and requires certain insurance providers, such as MassHealth, to cover midwifery services including prenatal care, childbirth, and postpartum care. The bill creates the Board of Registration in Midwifery within the Department of Public Health (DPH) to license and provide oversight of licensed midwives. Licensed midwives would be required to coordinate emergency care if needed and would also be able to issue prescriptions for certain drugs, under regulations to be promulgated by the Board and DPH.

Rep. Stanley Applauds Passage of Economic Development Bond Bill

The House passed an economic development bill that includes an array of investments and policy initiatives that aim to bolster support for workers and businesses, particularly in the life sciences, clean energy technology, and manufacturing industries, while retaining a larger focus on making Massachusetts more affordable and competitive. Funded at $3.40 billion in bond authorizations, with an additional $700 million worth of tax credits, the legislation strives to ensure that the Commonwealth is prepared to lead the innovation industries of the future.

Rep. Stanley’s Nominee, Erica Young, Honored at Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women's 2024 Commonwealth Heroines Celebration

Rep. Stanley proudly stood with Erica Young, Executive Director of the Waltham Boys and Girls Club, and Erica's mother, Joanne, at the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women's 2024 Commonwealth Heroines Celebration. Erica, who was nominated by Rep. Stanley, was celebrated for her exceptional contributions to her organization and the broader Waltham community. The annual event, held on June 14th, recognizes women across the state who have made significant impacts through their tireless service and dedication, yet often go unrecognized in the media.

The Commission, in collaboration with state legislators, aims to highlight these local heroines who continuously contribute to the well-being and growth of their communities.

"Erica's dedication to serving the youth of Waltham as the Executive Director of the Waltham Boys and Girls Club is amazing," said Rep. Stanley. "From after-school programs, summer camps, and the food program, she has helped countless young people grow and realize their full potential. I was incredibly honored to nominate Erica to be a 2024 Commonwealth Heroine and thrilled she will be recognized for her invaluable efforts and extraordinary acts of service to the Waltham community."

Rep. Stanley Tours GSK's Waltham Facility, Highlighting Innovation and Community Engagement

In June, Rep. Stanley visited the Waltham location of GSK (1000 Winter Street), a leading biotech company specializing in chronic disease treatment and prevention. Known for its extensive vaccine portfolio and expertise in respiratory care and Hepatitis B, GSK's Waltham R&D site is the largest office-based facility in New England, employing 300 individuals dedicated to discovering new medicines daily.

During the visit, Rep. Stanley learned about GSK's commitment to diversity in clinical trials, aiming to expand access to underserved populations. The company's research at the Waltham site includes focus areas such as ovarian and endometrial cancer, as well as vaccines and medicines for respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions. Beyond research, GSK's Greater Boston sites concentrate on early discovery and vaccine development, reflecting their broader impact on healthcare innovation in the region. Moreover, GSK Waltham actively engages with the community through various volunteer initiatives. These include building bicycles for shelter and refugee children, assembling care packages for cancer patients and pediatric wards in local hospitals, and organizing food drives to support Healthy Waltham initiatives. 

Rep. Stanley Helps Pass Bill to Protect Privacy of Individuals Seeking Reproductive and Gender Affirming Care

Rep. Stanley and his colleagues in the House passed legislation to protect the privacy of individuals seeking reproductive and gender affirming care by prohibiting the sale of cellphone data collected during visits to health care facilities in Massachusetts that offer those services. Currently, data brokers can sell data tracking the location of cellphone users. Following the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade, news outlets reported that location data firms were selling location information related to patients’ visits to Planned Parenthood facilities, which could then be used to target and harass those individuals and providers.

The bill passed by the House seeks to protect the privacy of patients by prohibiting companies from collecting and processing an individual’s reproductive or gender affirming care location information unless it’s for a permissible purpose, such as a response to an emergency service agency, or if the individual was provided with a location privacy policy and subsequently granted consent to such policy. The Attorney General would issue regulations related to this law, such as location privacy policies and consent, and have the authority to enforce it under Chapter 93A.

Rep. Stanley Advocates for Name Change to Promote Positive Aging

Rep. Stanley has submitted written testimony to the chairs of the State Administration and Regulatory Oversight Committee in support of Senate Bill 2797. This bill proposes changing the name of the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to the Executive Office of Aging and Independence. The proposed name change aims to address the negative associations often linked with the term "elderly" and instead promote a more positive perspective on aging. According to Rep. Stanley, this change is long overdue and necessary to recognize that aging is a natural process with many benefits. The term "Aging and Independence" better reflects the contributions and capabilities of older adults to the Commonwealth. 

Rep. Stanley Champions Hero Act to Support Service Members and Their Families

Rep. Stanley is actively advocating for the inclusion of key policies in the Conference Committee's final report on the Hero Act (H.4671/S.2826). With Massachusetts at the forefront of supporting veterans and service members, Rep. Stanley emphasizes the importance of these measures to ensure high-quality retention of dedicated service members. The proposed policies aim to honor the establishment of the U.S. Space Force, enhance educational support for military-connected students, and streamline licensure for military spouses, thereby improving the quality of life for military families in the Commonwealth.

Among the vital provisions, the legislation calls for the recognition of the Space Force anniversary, the appointment of a military spouse liaison, and the establishment of "Purple Star Schools" to support military-connected students facing unique challenges. Rep. Stanley's commitment to these initiatives highlights the ongoing need to support military families, from childcare access to honoring fallen service members with proper flag protocol. By advocating for these crucial updates, Rep. Stanley is not only reinforcing Massachusetts' commitment to its military community but also ensuring that the state remains a competitive and supportive environment for service members and their families.

Rep. Stanley Advocates for Advancement of Nicky’s Law

Rep. Stanley has submitted written testimony to the House Committee on Ways and Means, urging them to advance crucial legislation aimed at enhancing protections for individuals with disabilities, known as Nicky’s Law. This important bill, which has already received a favorable recommendation from the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities, is now under consideration by the House Committee on Ways and Means.

Individuals with disabilities often face a heightened risk of abuse from their caretakers. Nicky’s Law (Chapter 19 of the Acts of 2020), which Rep. Stanley proudly co-sponsored, established a registry within the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to identify and deter substantiated abusers from working with vulnerable populations. The current legislation, H.4393, seeks to expand these protections to include individuals attending MassHealth Day Habilitation services, thereby safeguarding an even broader community of disabled persons. Additionally, the bill updates the statutes and regulations of the Disabled Persons Protection Commission to ensure they are consistent with the provisions of Nicky’s Law, further reinforcing the integrity and effectiveness of this vital protective framework.

Rep. Stanley Advocates for Senior Housing Solutions in Massachusetts

Rep. Stanley, alongside Elder Affairs Committee co-chair Sen. Jehlen, urged the Housing Bond Bill Conference Committee to include a provision for establishing an affordable senior housing commission in their final report. Rep. Stanley is committed to addressing the economic insecurity faced by older adults in Massachusetts, which ranks second in the nation for nursing home placements. With rising housing costs and limited access to essential services, the need for affordable, service-enriched housing has never been more urgent.

To tackle this, he is advocating for the Senior Housing Commission, which would develop strategies to expand supportive housing for seniors. This includes mapping the economic profile of older adults, bridging housing and healthcare, and launching pilot programs to test effective partnerships. Highlighting successful initiatives like the J.J. Carroll House, which offers affordable apartments with health services, Rep. Stanley emphasizes the importance of creating similar developments as the older adult population is expected to exceed 25% by 2030. By including Section 134 of S.2850 in the final report, he aims to ensure that seniors have safe homes and access to vital services.

Rep. Stanley Advocates for Funding Alzheimer's Programs and Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities

Rep. Stanley is urging the Budget Conference Committee to include critical funding for Alzheimer's-related programs and services for Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs) in the FY25 Budget. In his recent letters to the committee members, Rep. Stanley emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of life for older adults.

He is requesting $300,000 for the Dementia Care Coordination program (line-item 9110-1630) and $250,000 for Alzheimer’s Public Awareness and Education (line-item 4513-1112). Additionally, Rep. Stanley is advocating for an increase in funding for line-item 9110-1660, which supports services for NORCs—communities where a significant portion of residents are over 60, designed to help them age in place effectively. By prioritizing these budget items, Rep. Stanley aims to ensure that Massachusetts continues to provide essential resources for its aging population.

Rep. Stanley Helps Pass Home Equity Legislation

Rep. Stanley and the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed “An Act relative to municipal tax lien procedures and protections for property owners in the Commonwealth,” which would align current statute with a recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court. The legislation secures the rights of property owners to reclaim any excess equity to which they are entitled after all taxes and fees are repaid to the municipalities following a tax foreclosure, while substantially increasing notifications and other protections for property owners throughout the foreclosure process. This bill ensures that Massachusetts law is constitutional throughout all municipalities in the Commonwealth, and fair to those subject to municipal tax lien foreclosure proceedings.

Waltham Resident Howard Trachtman Recognized at State House

Rep. Stanley congratulates Waltham resident Howard Trachtman (center) on receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award at the MA Certified Peer Specialist Awards Ceremony at the State House on June 27th. This annual event celebrated the outstanding achievements of Certified Peer Specialists (CPSs) across the Commonwealth, highlighting the exceptional peer support and advocacy efforts demonstrated over the past year. These efforts have significantly contributed to the well-being of individuals and communities alike. Additionally, Waltham resident Alex Green (right of Howard Trachtman) was recognized for his impactful work at the ceremony.

The event was organized by the Kiva Centers, a nationally recognized, indigenous-led, peer-run, and trauma-informed organization. The Kiva Centers offer training, technical assistance, and networking opportunities, serving as the hub for the Massachusetts Certified Peer Specialist Training, the Massachusetts Statewide Peer Network, Karaya, Juniper, and La Paz Peer-Run Respites, and the Recovery Learning Community (CMRLC). Their mission focuses on developing and promoting healing communities for individuals impacted by trauma, mental health challenges, and substance use. The recognition of Trachtman and Green underscores the vital role of CPSs in fostering recovery and resilience within the community.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces $6.7 Million in Federal Funds to Combat Veteran Homelessness

The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced the allocation of $6.7 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to enhance outreach and case-management services aimed at eradicating veteran homelessness in Massachusetts. This funding is for the Housing Outreach-to-Placement Effort (HOPE) campaign, an initiative under the broader $20 million End Veteran Homelessness campaign the administration launched in March 2024.

The HOPE Campaign is an outreach and housing counseling program that provides outreach, service coordination, and housing placement to homeless veterans and their families across Massachusetts. Providers will collaborate with other veteran service organizations and regional Continuums of Care (CoC) to find, identify, and engage with homeless veterans. Each CoC is made up of housing providers, healthcare organizations, state and federal government representatives, and housing authorities. Each CoC has a veteran subcommittee that focuses solely on veterans without housing at or risk of losing housing. Each subcommittee meets biweekly and engages in case conferencing.  

Healey-Driscoll Administration Celebrates Nearly $60 Million in “Low-No” Federal Grants to Electrify Buses

The Healey-Driscoll Administration celebrated three federal grant awards from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA)’s Low or No Emissions Grant Program to help three transit authorities acquire zero and low-emission buses. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is receiving $40 million in support of the Battery-Electric Bus Transition Phase 1B Project, which aims to replace the diesel-fueled buses at the Quincy Bus Maintenance Facility with state-of-the-art battery-electric buses (BEBs), furthering the MBTA’s goal to fully transition to a zero-emission fleet by 2040. 

Additionally, a $14.6 million grant has been awarded to the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) and a $3.8 million grant has been awarded to the Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA). CCRTA is scheduled to use the funding for the purchase of 13, 35-foot diesel-hybrid buses to replace the 13 diesel buses currently in CCRTA's fleet, and to acquire the necessary maintenance tools and staff training. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has pledged to match this federal award with $2 million in state funding. Meanwhile, the VTA will use its funding for the purchase of four new all-electric buses, including one 35-foot and three 30-foot buses, and to acquire DC fast chargers at the VTA’s operations and maintenance facility, and staff training.

MBTA Launches Tap to Ride

The MBTA is improving the way you pay for transit with the introduction of contactless payment on bus and subway. Starting in summer 2024, you’ll be able to pay by tapping your contactless debit/credit card, phone, or watch with a mobile wallet—making it easier for you to get going. Learn more. 

Check Your Internet Speed!

Do you have reliable internet? Updating the MA Broadband Map is crucial to ensuring the state receives funding needed to achieve Internet For All. The Massachusetts Broadband Institute at MassTech encourages residents to visit howsyourinternet.org to take a speed test and submit evidence that will help bring the Commonwealth one step closer to ensuring universal access to this vital resource. Don't wait! Deadline is 7/20!

Check out Summer Eats!

Summer Eats ensures that every kid has access to the food they need to thrive by providing free, nutritious meals throughout the summer! Join Project Bread to support and promote this critical summer meal program. Need help finding a site? Learn more.

Legal Assistance Available!

MassLegalHelp.org, a collaborative effort of the Massachusetts civil legal aid community, offers over 800 pieces of content in article, e-book, and video format. This comprehensive legal information website serves as a valuable resource for residents facing various legal challenges. Whether individuals are dealing with landlord-tenant disputes, appealing denied SNAP benefits, seeking domestic violence restraining orders, understanding their rights in ICE detention situations, or navigating CORI sealing processes, MassLegalHelp.org provides accessible and empowering self-help materials. 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:

Massachusetts Elder Nutrition Commission

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

Personal:

Married to the former Kimberly A. Bayliss

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