While the legislative session would normally have ended in July, both the House and Senate extended the legislative session so we can continue to fight for the resources people need to make it through the ongoing pandemic. Since my last update, I've fought hard to win funding for Malden, and even passed my own legislation banning hair discrimination in the Commonwealth. Before I get to those updates, I want to take a moment to welcome my new Legislative Aide, Matt Walsh! Matt graduated from Amherst College in 2019, and has lived in Malden ever since, working on various campaigns in and around our district. Matt brings experience in constituent services and advocacy that will make him a great advocate for our city, and I'm excited to have him by my side working for Malden! Check out the updates below to learn more about our efforts in the House, local resources, and more!
Passed in the House
H.4910: An Order Suspending Joint Rule 12A
Status: Passed in the General Court
Extends our formal session in the House of Representatives and the Senate past July 31st
H.4888: An Act Putting Patients First (Cosponsor)
Status: In conference committee
Requires telehealth coverage for individuals covered under the GIC, MassHealth, Insurers, Hospital Service Corporations, Medical Service Corporations, HMOs, and PPOs
Establishes COVID-19 specific provisions addressing the expiration of temporary healthcare professional licensing, rate-setting for out-of-network care, and copay-free in-patient treatment for Coronavirus in 2021
H.4912: An Act Creating a 2050 Roadmap to a Clean and Thriving Commonwealth
Status: Passed in the General Court
Updates the state greenhouse gas emissions reduction limit to net zero by 2050, requiring interim targets of at least a 50% decrease from 1990 levels by 2030, and a 75% decrease by 2040
Establishes a Clean Energy Equity Workforce and Market Development Program to create programs to increase low-income and environmental justice populations' access to the benefits of the green economy.
H.4930: An Act Prohibiting Discrimination Based on Natural Hairstyles (Lead Sponsor)
Status: Awaiting consideration in the Senate
Bans workplace discrimination based on natural hairstyles to protect Massachusetts workers, particularly people of color, from workplace discrimination based on their appearance
Inspired by Mya and Deanna Cook of Malden
Money for Malden
Malden Public Schools have received $10,000 for behavioral and mental health support services through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's Supporting Students' Behavioral and Mental Health and Wellness Grant.
Malden Public Schools will receive a $3.3 million increase in Chapter 70 funding from FY20.
Through the advocacy of Malden’s Disability Commission, the City of Malden recently received a $40,000 grant from Governor Baker’s Community Compact Program to complete an American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan.
In the District
I'll begin my new series of virtual office hours this Thursday, August 27, 10:00 - 11:00 AM. I'll be continuing these virtual office hours on the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 - 8:00 PM, and the fourth Thursday of each month at 10:00 - 11:00 AM until we can once again meet in person. Click here to join me then!
According to DPH, Malden's percentage of positive COVID-19 tests has decreased to 2.06% to 2.9% from the week of 8/10 to the week of 8/17
There is a ballot drop off box available in the new City Hall lobby at 215 Pleasant Street as a convenience for mail-in and absentee ballots. No appointment is needed for dropping off ballots. A greeter will open the door and allow you to place your ballot in the ballot box. New City Hall hours are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:00AM-5:00PM and Tuesday 8:00AM-7:00PM and closed Fridays.
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