The FARM Bill: Protecting Our Land, Water, and Local Food SystemThe FARM Bill is about resilience. By investing in farming families, we support a more secure and sustainable future for the Commonwealth.
As the descendant of Falmouth strawberry farmers, I know how important agriculture is for a healthy food system and the thousands of Massachusetts families who depend on it. My great-grandparents were among the many Azorean Americans who farmed Falmouth's strawberry fields. At its peak, before World War II, Falmouth produced more strawberries than any town in the country. Today, that legacy endures in a single remaining farm: Tony Andrews Farm, now stewarded by the town. This decline is visible across the Commonwealth. Since 1945, the number of farms in the state has declined from 35,000 to about 6,000. Much of that farmland has been developed into shopping centers, industrial parks, and housing—reflecting a changing economy and the cost of limited land. What's HappeningEven as these changes reshape our landscape, the need for a sustainable food system remains constant. With emerging threats like climate change and supply chain disruptions, it's imperative that we act to support healthy, locally grown food. That's why as Chair of the Joint Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries, I'm proud that a Committee priority, Senate Bill 3029, An Act fostering agricultural resilience in Massachusetts—or the FARM Bill—has advanced out of the Senate Ways and Means Committee and will be debated on the Senate floor next week. I want to recognize and congratulate my colleague Senator Jo Comerford for her leadership on bringing this bill forward. Why It MattersMassachusetts is home to more than 7,000 farms and fishing operations, spanning 500,000 acres—10 per cent of the state's land—and generating over $10 billion in economic activity. The FARM Bill will help preserve and strengthen this industry which supports our economy, feeds our families, and contributes to a sustainable future.
One key provision requires the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to develop a plan to support agriculture, seafood, and processed food during emergencies to mitigate food supply chain disruptions. In crises like storms and pandemics, producers often lose access to markets and can't transport goods. This provision will ensure that farms and fisheries can continue operating, treating them as essential infrastructure rather than an afterthought. The FARM Bill also codifies key programs that support local agriculture and public health. The Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) helps residents purchase fresh produce from local farms. The Food Security Infrastructure Grant (FSIG) program strengthens supply chains and expands access to local foods. The FRESH program helps schools and early education centers increase local food purchasing. This legislation makes these programs permanent. Additionally, the bill directs the state to make recommendations for increasing the use of local food in assistance programs, creating stable markets for farmers while strengthening supply chains and supporting fresh, local food.
The FARM Bill also supports our cranberry industry, Massachusetts' most valuable agricultural product. The Cranberry Revitalization Task Force, which includes colleagues like Senate Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues and former Senator Vinny deMacedo, recommended we adopt language empowering cranberry bog farmers to transfer their Water Management Act permit rights. That language, filed in Senate Bill 602, An Act relative to cranberry water use transfer program, is included in this legislation. The FARM Bill is about resilience—ensuring our farmers and fishermen can withstand disruptions, our land and water remain productive, and our food system is prepared for future challenges. By investing in farming families, we support a more secure and sustainable future for the Commonwealth. While Falmouth may no longer be the strawberry capital of the United States, Massachusetts continues to invest in its agricultural future through legislation that protects and strengthens our farmland for generations to come. What Happens Next
For Your ConsiderationIf the issue of supporting farming families is important to you, please:
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Showing posts with label MA Senate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MA Senate. Show all posts
Friday, March 27, 2026
The FARM Bill: Protecting Our Land, Water, and Local Food System
Friday, March 20, 2026
Animal Anti-Cruelty Legislation Passes Unanimously in the Senate
Bill ends commercial sales of cats and dogs in pet stores, strengthens cruelty protections, and prohibits breed-based discrimination in public housing and insurance coverage
The Massachusetts Senate today (3/19/26) unanimously passed legislation to end the inhumane puppy-mill-to-pet-shop pipeline by cutting off commercial sales of cats and dogs in Massachusetts pet stores.
The bill, nicknamed the PETS Act, would also end harsh, unnecessary testing of animal subjects for non-medical purposes; boost animal wellbeing; and make responsible pet ownership possible for more people.
"Pets are family, and this bill makes it clear they should be treated that way," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "We are doubling down on treating animals with humanity and care, expanding access to pet ownership, and taking another important step toward ending discrimination against breeds like pit bulls. This bill was a true team effort in the Senate, and I want to thank Chair Rodrigues and Chair Rausch for their stewardship of the legislation, Senators Lewis, Payano, Montigny, and O'Connor for their leadership on these issues, and the countless advocates who raised their voices in support of animal well-being in Massachusetts."
"Anyone who knows me knows that at times, I like dogs better than I like people. As the proud owner of my 12-year-old Golden Retriever, Mabel, I truly believe that it is our responsibility as legislators to protect our beloved pets and strengthen animal protection measures," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "For years, we have heard from residents and advocates about the need to end the practice of inhumane sales of puppies and kittens and enforce regulations against bad actors. As many people know, pets brighten up our days, reduce stress, and offer unconditional love, which we hope to reciprocate by showing dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals across the Commonwealth that we care."
Under Senate Bill 3014, An Act promoting pet equity, treatment, and safety, pet shops could display animals from nonprofits for adoption, but for‑profit sales—often linked to large commercial breeders known as puppy mills—would be banned. A growing number of states have banned the sale of cats and dogs in licensed retail pet stores.
"The emotional connection and love between pets and their humans is so often both immeasurable and indescribable. I see it with our family dog, Melody, and particularly so between Melody and our children. Everyone should have the chance to experience the joy and—especially true for our kids—responsibility that comes with caring for a pet," said Senator Rebecca L. Rausch (D-Needham), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. "Today the Senate takes yet another big step forward in its leadership on the care and protection of animals by passing the PETS Act, to end the puppy-mill-to-pet-store pipeline, halt cruel and unnecessary animal testing, ensure animal safety officers have the tools they need to provide animal protection, and promote pet ownership in public housing. It brings me great joy to vote yes, and great pride to have helped shepherd several key components of this legislation as Senate Chair of the Joint Committees on Environment and Natural Resources and Municipalities and Regional Government. Thank you to Senate President Karen Spilka, Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues, our several colleagues who championed each of the bills comprising this omnibus, and the many animal rights advocates, whose collective dedication, diligence, and expertise made today possible."
"It breaks my heart to see cruel and inhumane puppy mills abusing dogs to mass-produce puppies to ship across the country when there are so many wonderful and lonely pets waiting to be adopted," said Senator Jason M. Lewis (D-Winchester), who sponsored legislation to ban for-profit cat and dog sales in pet shops. "I have proudly adopted my cats from the MSPCA, including my 15-year-old cat Mookie, and have long advocated for people to reach out to their local shelters and adoption centers when considering getting a pet."
"Having had my pit bull Teja in my life shaped how I understand the role pets play in our families and communities. In Massachusetts, no one should face higher insurance costs because of a dog's breed, be forced to choose between housing and their pet, or be burdened by unclear and rising pet fees. This bill moves us toward fairness by focusing on real behavior, expanding access to pet-friendly housing, and giving us the data we need to address the true impact of these costs," said Senator Pavel M. Payano (D-Lawrence), the sponsor of provisions to end breed discrimination and open up the possibility of pet ownership in public housing.
To make pet ownership possible for more Massachusetts residents, the PETS Act would require the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) to create a uniform pet ownership program for residents of state-aided public housing. Public housing facilities would be prohibited from discriminating based on a pet's breed or size. The legislation's breed acceptance measures go further by prohibiting homeowner insurance companies from factoring a dog's breed into underwriting, rating, or renewal decisions.
To promote animal welfare, the bill would prohibit manufacturers from subjecting animals to unnecessary chemical testing for non-medical research, sparing innocent animals from harsh conditions. It would also extend a state law which protects dogs from cruelty to cover all household pets, ensuring adequate food, water, and sanitary conditions. The legislation would also protect livestock and other animals by adding civil penalties to enforce existing anti-cruelty statutes.
"Animals who provide us with boundless love and companionship must be protected from cruel and abusive actions by neglectful individuals," said Senator Mark C. Montigny (D-New Bedford), the sponsor of underlying bills to expand anti-cruelty laws and limit unnecessary chemical testing on animals. "Sadly, we have done far too little to punish and deter heartless abuse and to push back against a weak system that has too often failed to hold abusers accountable. This legislation will crack down on such abhorrent treatment by empowering local authorities to intervene and remedy cruel conditions and by banning the use of painful vanity testing on animals when cosmetics and other household products can easily be tested through alternative means."
"This legislation ends the sale of dogs and cats in pet shops across Massachusetts, finally severing our ties to puppy mills and unethical breeding operations. For too long, the retail pet industry has not taken accountability for a system that harms animals and misleads hopeful pet owners, allowing sick and vulnerable animals to be sold across the Commonwealth," said Senator Patrick M. O'Connor (R-Weymouth), who sponsored bills calling for the ban on commercialized animal sales in pet shops. "I'm grateful to my colleagues for advancing this legislation and to those at organizations such as the MSPCA, the Humane Society, and the Animal Rescue League for their tireless advocacy in bringing us to this moment. We've seen communities step up to act, and now it's time to make this the standard statewide. I am confident in this legislation as it moves through the Senate and as we affirm our commitment to protecting both animals and pet owners."
During today's session, Senators amended the bill to expand the 2022 research animal protection law and apply its provisions to all research facilities that test on dogs and cats, beyond the law's original focus on higher education facilities. The law requires facilities to assess the health of former animal test subjects and then, if appropriate, make them available for adoption as pets.
The bill was reported to the full Senate by a 17-0 vote of the Committee on Ways and Means on March 12, 2026. All committee votes are posted on the Legislature's website and full details of the legislation are available in a fact sheet in the Senate Press Room.
The Senate passed the bill on a 38-0 roll call vote and sent it to the House of Representatives for further review.
Statements of Support
Kara Holmquist, Director of Advocacy, MSPCA-Angell
"We are grateful to the Senate for passing this landmark bill that protects animals, families, and consumers across the Commonwealth. Through our animal shelters, veterinary hospitals, and humane law enforcement work, the MSPCA-Angell sees firsthand the impact that inhumane practices have on the animals we share our lives and spaces with. The PETS Act will help keep more pets in their homes while reducing the number of animals entering shelters and municipal facilities across the state, stop the puppy-mill-to-pet-store pipeline, end the unnecessary use of animals in cosmetic testing, and put in place additional tools to prevent animals from being kept in cruel conditions—all measures that will ensure Massachusetts remains a leader in animal protection."
Allison Blanck, Director of Advocacy, Animal Rescue League of Boston
"The PETS Act shows Massachusetts' continuing commitment to preventing animal cruelty and improving the lives of animals and the people who love them. At the Animal Rescue League of Boston, we believe pets are family and we support policies to remove obstacles to pet friendly housing and strive to keep more pets and people together. Preventing insurance companies from discriminating on the basis of dog breed and appearance will allow pets to stay with their families and out of shelters. ARL is proud to support this act that in addition to helping pet families, will also help animals across Massachusetts by banning the sale of dogs and cats in retail stores, requiring alternatives to animal testing for cosmetics and household goods, and allowing animal control and humane law enforcement to intervene before situations reach felony cruelty."
Preyel Patel, Massachusetts State Director, Humane World for Animals
"Today's vote is a major step forward for animals and families across Massachusetts. The PETS Act shuts off the cruel puppy-mill-to-pet-store pipeline and puts our state at the forefront of humane science by requiring the use of non-animal test methods for cosmetics and household products when validated alternatives are available. Combined with stronger cruelty protections and provisions to keep families and their pets together in their homes, this bill reflects the values our Commonwealth strives to uphold. We commend the Senate for advancing these critical protections."
Stephanie Harris, Senior Legislative Affairs Manager, Animal Legal Defense Fund
"This landmark legislation demonstrates the Senate's commitment to protecting companion animals—those who share our homes and lives and are irreplaceable members of our families. The protections in this bill touch many corners of companion animals' lives—from preventing sourcing animals from puppy mills, to funding preventive care for homeless animals. We will continue to advocate for animals in the state to build on this achievement."
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Our Due Diligence for Voters
The Massachusetts Constitution requires us to evaluate potential ballot questions. We're taking that opportunity to provide more information to you.
Majority Leader Cindy Creem Mar 12
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What's Happening
As the Senate's efforts to understand the potential impacts of the 2026 ballot questions get underway, I would like to give you an update on our work.
The Senate recently joined our colleagues in the House in a public hearing on one of the ballot questions voters will likely be expected to vote on in the fall. We will hold similar hearings on all 2026 ballot initiatives as part of our fact-finding process.
The legislature also has a unique right to ask the Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) questions about the legality and constitutionality of certain matters, including ballot questions. According to our state constitution, "Each branch of the Legislature...shall have authority to require the opinions of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court, upon important questions of law, and upon solemn occasions."
We have the responsibility to ask these questions when the answers are unclear. The Senate adopted two orders in session today that will allow us to do just that.
In short—the Senate will ask the Court questions so the public can get the answers.
Why It Matters
Here in Massachusetts
Public hearings, meetings with stakeholders, advocates and constituents, town halls, office hours—these are all tools legislators use to tease out multiple perspectives on an issue when legislation is before us. These efforts also give us the opportunity to learn about potential unintended consequences of a proposed bill that might ultimately do more harm than good.
The questioning doesn't stop there. Once Senators and committees do their due diligence to understand the impact of a bill, it goes to our lawyers, known as the Office of Senate Counsel, to ensure it does not violate the Constitution. Only then does a bill go to the Senate floor for a debate.
This last step is no small thing. When we are sworn into the Senate, we take an oath to uphold and defend both the Massachusetts Constitution and the U.S. Constitution. Legislation that comes to us via ballot question changes our normal process somewhat, but it doesn't change our responsibility to our Constitution and our constituents.
Candidly, misunderstandings and a lack of clear explanation of the constitutional implications of Question 1 during the last ballot cycle has led to confusion and frustration—both on the part of the legislators who are obliged to uphold the Constitution and the voters who voted for it. That issue is now with the courts, and we are hopeful that they will provide resolution on this issue soon.
The steps we're taking today aim to avoid similar confusion about some of the ballot questions now before us.
The National Context
Consider what is happening right now at the federal level. Congress has abdicated nearly all of its power, including its constitutionally mandated right and responsibility to determine tariffs. After President Trump levied tariff after tariff, injecting chaos and uncertainty into our economy, the Supreme Court finally stepped in to rule that tariff authority rests solely with Congress—except where Congress has delegated that authority to another branch of government in explicit terms and subject to strict limits.
We know that the checks and balances envisioned by the architects of our democracy are failing at the federal level. At best, this breakdown leads to confusion and duplication of effort. At worst, it undermines our entire system of "government of laws not men," to borrow John Adams' phrase. Here in Massachusetts, we are both determined and duty-bound to work to avoid that slippery slope.
What Happens Next
We believe voters deserve to have as much information as possible before voting on a ballot question. Once we receive answers from the SJC, the committee evaluating ballot questions will use that information to write its report. That report will then be printed in the voter guide distributed in the fall for all to see. We will also make that report publicly available as soon as it is ready.
Ultimately, if the court believes the initiatives are within the guardrails our state constitution puts forward, then we will all be better equipped to have a well-informed debate about the policy itself.
A guest post by
Majority Leader Cindy Creem
Majority Leader of the Massachusetts Senate. Proudly representing Brookline, Newton and Wellesley.
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Friday, February 27, 2026
Mass Senate: Responding to the State of Our Union
Responding to the State of Our UnionThe Senate didn't need a rambling speech to understand the impact federal policies are having on Massachusetts communities. That's why we've been responding in real time over the past year.
President Trump delivered his State of the Union address Tuesday night. As we've come to expect, his speech spun a web of lies while completely ignoring the reality of what's happening to our country—and to people like you and me, our families and our neighbors. In the Massachusetts Senate, we believe in being honest. We also believe in focusing on substance and solutions, not soundbites. That's why the Senate has spent the past year examining ways to protect our residents, defend our values and lead Massachusetts during the second Trump administration. Because right now our rule of law is at risk and our residents are worried about their jobs and their healthcare, while our president only seems to care about punishing people who don't agree with him and making money for himself and his friends. We clearly need to act—and we have been through the Senate's Response 2025 initiative. What's at StakeIt's no secret that Massachusetts largely stands for everything Trump is trying to tear down. Personally, think he's jealous. We invest heavily in public education at every level, celebrate the strength that our diversity brings, and practice "small d" democracy in communities across our Commonwealth. Our economy is built on scientific research, innovation, and hard work, all of which we appreciate and celebrate. So, it should come as no surprise that the Trump Administration's pro-billionaire, anti-democratic, anti-science and, frankly, anti-American policies pose a number of threats to our Commonwealth. What Response 2025 Means for MassachusettsTo address these threats, the Senate Committee on Steering and Policy—of which I am Chair—has worked every day for nearly a year to analyze federal actions in real time, collaborate with experts, and elevate carefully-considered policy solutions. This is all part of the Senate's Response 2025 initiative, a name derived from the source of many policies we're responding to: the infamous Project 2025 agenda. Together, we have proposed and passed:
There's more. The Steering and Policy Committee have detailed all of our actions—from protecting the LGBTQ+ community to preventing book bans to keeping construction going on much-needed new housing even as costs rise due to tariffs—in a letter located on our committee website.
2025 May be Over, but Response 2025 is NotThe work to respond to Project 2025 is ongoing, because the impact from these policies is ongoing. Our committee continues to meet weekly—and remains committed to staying alert to new federal actions that could affect Massachusetts residents. Obviously, our top concern right now is the actions of ICE in our communities and the need to protect our immigrant neighbors. The Steering and Policy Committee was instrumental in helping to develop Senate President Pro Tempore Brownsberger's newly-proposed bill that seeks to protect residents from direct actions by federal law enforcement that violate our rights protected under the United States Constitution. While immigration enforcement falls to the federal government—only Congress can enact the comprehensive reforms needed to update our immigration system—we can and will act to protect our residents here in the Commonwealth. Senator Brownsberger's bill is just one piece of a broader, ongoing review of immigrant protections being undertaken as part of Response 2025. The Best Offense is a Good DefenseMassachusetts has always believed that the best offense is a good defense. We have budgeted carefully, set up strong civil rights protections, and kept faith with science, innovation and education. We invest in strong, sustainable programs to best serve our residents. We are focused on doing what we can to weather the storm ahead. But we also will never hesitate to protect our residents and our way of life when needed. Just like the patriots in my district 250 years ago on the Lexington Battle Green, we will never wait to be asked to lead—we just do it. And we will never back down when it comes to defending our values of freedom, compassion, creativity, integrity and justice for all. Know someone who may be interested in the Senate's Response 2025 initiative to protect and defend Massachusetts? Share this post!
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