Mass Senate audit information via Senate President Karen Spilka

Via Senate President Karen Spilka:

"If you are interested in reviewing Senate audits, payroll, or expenditures please visit the links or scan the QR codes below."

Senate expenditures (link #1) ->   https://cthruspending.mass.gov/#!/year/2025/explore/0/department/SENATE+(SEN)/0/cabinet_secretariat

Senate payroll (link #2) ->   https://cthrupayroll.mass.gov/#!/year/2025/full_time_employees,others/pay1,pay2,pay3,pay4/explore/0-0-0/department_division/SENATE+(SEN)/0/position_title

Senate audits (link #3) ->   https://malegislature.gov/ClerksOffice/Senate/Audits

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/16pV2Ht51Q/

Mass Senate audit information via Senate President Karen Spilka

Dale Medical Products of Franklin recognized at 10th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony at Gillette Stadium

Dale Medical Products, Inc. of Franklin, Massachusetts received the Manufacturer of the Year Award for the 10th Norfolk District at the 10th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony held Tuesday, October 21st at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA.  This award is given in recognition of outstanding leadership skills in the manufacturing industry.  The annual event was hosted by the Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus, in partnership with MassTech Collaborative and the Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MassMEP).

Jeffrey N. Roy

Dale Medical Products was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  Founded in 1961, Dale is a trusted manufacturer of specialty medical devices, known for delivering high-quality, reliable, and cost-effective solutions that enhance patient care. Their products are designed to reduce infection rates, improve efficiency, boost patient satisfaction, and support cost accountability. What sets Dale apart is their unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. With a focus on innovation, they consistently strive to make things better — offering superior quality for patients and exceptional service for healthcare providers. As an employee-owned company, Dale is deeply invested in its mission and people. Their dedication to financial strength, market leadership, and innovation drives their ongoing success and impact in the healthcare industry.

Each year, the Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus hosts the Manufacturing Awards Ceremony to highlight many of the Commonwealth’s most noteworthy manufacturers and celebrate their successes as leading manufacturers in the industry. This recognition is reserved for Commonwealth manufacturers that exemplify what it means to “make it in Massachusetts” and propel their industry towards continued growth and innovation. This year, over 60 diverse manufacturers were selected by legislators from across the Commonwealth to be recognized at the awards ceremony. 

“I was proud to join my colleagues in recognizing 69 Massachusetts Manufacturers for their outstanding contributions to our Commonwealth’s economy. Their innovation, craftsmanship, and dedication to job creation, strengthens our communities, and ensures that Massachusetts remains a leader in advanced manufacturing,” said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin).  “All of these companies, like my nominee Dale Medical, exemplify what it means to “make it in Massachusetts.”   

“Our state is a hub of manufacturing and innovation,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka. “From materials manufacturers that ship products globally, to nurseries that bring beauty to homes and businesses, to breweries and distilleries — these are products made with unmatched skill and pride here in Massachusetts. Congratulations to each of the awardees, and my deep thanks to Senator Paul Feeney for his leadership of the Manufacturing Caucus, to Representative Roy, and to all the members who raise their voices on behalf of our manufacturers every day.”

"From groundbreaking work in the life sciences industry, to unparalleled innovation in the production of renewable energy, to the development of game changing technology across so many sectors of our economy, Massachusetts has a manufacturing industry to be incredibly proud of," said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). "I want to thank Representative Roy, Senator Feeney, and the entire manufacturing caucus, as well as partners like MassTech Collaborative and MassMEP for the work that they continue to do to ensure that the manufacturing industry in Massachusetts can continue to grow and succeed."

“Massachusetts manufacturers are central to our economic strength, our competitiveness and our identity as a state that builds what’s next. The companies recognized today demonstrate the strength of Team Massachusetts and how investments in innovation, skilled workers and strong regional partnerships continue to drive growth in every corner of the Commonwealth,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley.  

Senator Paul R. Feeney

“It was an honor to recognize the manufacturers nominated today for their outstanding contributions to the Commonwealth and for exemplifying what it means to ‘make it in Massachusetts.’ Each company recognized at this event is a testament to why Massachusetts has cemented itself as a destination for highly-skilled, transformational manufacturing partners that make cutting-edge advancements, challenge convention and shape our future. Chair Roy and I offer our heartfelt thanks to the manufacturers in attendance, their talented workforces, the legislators who nominated businesses in their districts and continue to be their voice on Beacon Hill, and all Massachusetts manufacturers who continue to transform what’s possible,” said Senator Paul R. Feeney (D-Foxborough), Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.

“Massachusetts manufacturers continue to demonstrate why this sector is so vital to our state’s technology and innovation economy,” said CAM Director Lily Fitzgerald. “The Manufacturing Awards Ceremony at our annual Massachusetts Manufacturing Mash-Up recognizes the people and companies creating good jobs, breaking new ground, and strengthening supply chains to keep our ecosystem resilient and innovative.”

A group photo of Massachusetts manufacturers attending
the 10^th Annual Manufacturing Awards on
Tuesday, October 21 at Gillette Stadium

“Congratulations to this year’s Manufacturing Award winners. Your innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence embody the very best of manufacturing in the Commonwealth. Manufacturing remains the backbone of our economy, creating good jobs, driving technological advancement, and strengthening our communities. At MassMEP, we are proud to support and serve Massachusetts manufacturers, helping them grow, compete, and prosper for years to come,” said Kathie Mahoney, President, MassMEP.

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes 71 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.

Senate President Spilka's 55+ Health & Wellness Fair spots are filling up!

Register today!

Senate President Spilka's 55+ Health & Wellness Fair spots are filling up!   Dear friends —   If you have yet to register for this year's 55+ Health and Wellness Fair, there's still time!  This year's event will be on October 18, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Keefe Regional Technical School in Framingham.  Please RSVP to join us on October 18. If you've already registered, we look forward to seeing you there! Visit karenspilka.com/fair2025 to learn more about the exciting day we have planned, and I can't wait to see you there.  Sincerely,   Karen E. Spilka  Senate President    karenspilka.com

Senate President Karen E. Spilka | Massachusetts State House Room 332 | Boston, MA 02133 US

Senate President Karen Spilka: An invite to my 2025 Health and Wellness Fair - Oct 18

An exciting day at Keefe Tech on October 18

Dear friends —   My annual 55+ Health and Wellness Fair for active agers and those who love them is quickly approaching, and I'm inviting you, your loved ones, and your neighbors to join us for an exciting and informative day.   This year's event will be on October 18, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Keefe Regional Technical School in Framingham.    It is one of my favorite days of the year, and I hope you'll join us. Like in years past, this fun and free event will include more than 80 exhibitors, who will be sharing information and resources on ways to stay active, be mentally healthy, and plan for the years to come, no matter your age. This year I'm also happy to offer free health screenings, flu and COVID vaccines, workshops on fitness, healthy cooking, navigating social security, and much more.  Attendees can look forward to free breakfast and lunch, live music, free prize drawings from local MetroWest exhibitors, and exciting, interactive workshops.  Our event is free and open to everyone, including residents 55 and older and their family members.  Please RSVP to join us on October 18. If you've already registered, we look forward to seeing you there! Interested in being an exhibitor? We welcome all exhibitors who are interested in setting up a table that will help educate and inform aging members of the MetroWest community and their loved ones. Contact karen.spilka@masenate.gov for more information or register here. Visit karenspilka.com/fair2025 to learn more about the exciting day we have planned, and I can't wait to see you there.  Sincerely,   Karen E. Spilka  Senate President    karenspilka.com

Senate President Karen E. Spilka | Massachusetts State House Room 332 | Boston, MA 02133 US

The Mass FY 2026 budget closes out with Gov Healy signature

Via Senate President Karen Spilka:

Today (June 30, 2025) , Speaker Mariano and I issued the following statement on the Legislature's FY26 Budget:

"We are incredibly proud of the agreement that was reached by the House and Senate on Friday. This is a budget that delivers for Massachusetts residents and reflects our shared commitment to spending taxpayer dollars responsibly.

This agreement incorporates many of the strongest proposals from both chambers, will make Massachusetts more affordable, and will protect our most vulnerable residents.

As President Trump and Congressional Republicans continue to pursue devastating cuts to programs that millions of Americans rely on, we recognize the heightened importance of passing a fiscally responsible budget that invests in the areas that we value most.
This budget does exactly that.

We are deeply grateful to Chairs Rodrigues and Michlewitz, Vice Chairs Comerford and Ferrante, and the members of both chambers for their thoughtful work in delivering a timely and meaningful budget.

We look forward to sending it to the Governor’s desk on Monday."

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DLfs1DqttqZ/

Via Gov Maura Healey:

"Today (07/04/25), Governor Maura Healey signed the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) state budget, a $60.9 billion plan that is fiscally responsible, lowers costs, protects essential care and services, and moves the Massachusetts economy forward.  

To further control spending and protect taxpayer dollars, Governor Healey is vetoing $130 million, resulting in a final budget that is more than $1 billion less than the H1 proposal and $130 million less than the final conference budget. The administration is also continuing an Executive Branch hiring freeze, halting a planned non-union manager pay raise scheduled for January, saving $17 million, and delaying payment on earmarked funds for local projects in the budget totaling approximately $125 million until later in the year when more is understood about their affordability.

“I’m proud to sign a budget that is fiscally responsible and protects what makes Massachusetts special,” said Governor Healey. “I’m grateful to the Legislature for their strong partnership and efficient work to develop and pass this budget for the people we serve. In Massachusetts, we are continuing to lead and do what we know works – focusing on lowering costs, protecting essential care and services, and moving our economy forward by investing in housing, transportation and our schools. We are also signing this budget in a moment of great dysfunction in Washington. The President is poised to sign a bill that’s going to kick hundreds of thousands of Massachusetts residents off their health care, increase energy and groceries prices, and cost people their jobs.” 

The Mass FY 2026 budget closes out with Gov Healy signature

Gov Healey's press release -> https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-signs-609-billion-fiscal-year-2026-budget

The Governor’s signing letter, veto message, and returns available at this link ->

https://budget.digital.mass.gov/summary/fy26/ 

The formal parchment letter -> https://www.mass.gov/doc/fy26-budget-filing-letter-from-the-governor-and-lt-governor/download

FRANKLIN =  Chapter 70 - $30,460,643  Local Aid - $3,075,999

Note: The Chapter 70 amount is exactly the same as approved by the Town Council for the FY 2026 budget. The Local aid as approved by the Governor is $33,468.00 more than currently in the Franklin budget. The adjustment to the Franklin budget will occur later this year before the tax rate is set in Nov/Dec.

Mass Gov FY 2026 -> https://budget.digital.mass.gov/summary/fy26/local-aid/

Town of Franklin FY 2026 voting document ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/5882/FY26-Control-Sheet-and-Voting-Doc-OPTION-B

Senate President Karen Spilka & House Speaker Ronald Mariano announce Agreement on Joint Cmte Rules

Senate President Karen Spilka:

Agreement on Joint Cmte Rules

"I’m proud to share that the House and Senate have reached an agreement on joint rules for the 2025-2026 legislative session and that the coinciding conference committee report has been filed.

This is a win for the public as the rules promote an accessible and transparent legislative process.  

You can learn more at karenspilka.com/updates/factsheet-jointrules."

Instagram post shared from ->  https://www.instagram.com/p/DLQtBVrM6GX/

Complete Statement:

"Today, House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka issued the following statement regarding the conference committee on joint legislative rules: 

"We are proud to announce that, for the first time since 2019, the House and Senate have reached an agreement on new joint rules. Once adopted, these joint rules will govern the 2025-2026 legislative session.

At the beginning of this session, we committed our respective chambers to deliver a transparent and efficient legislative process that meets the moment. This agreement draws on key provisions from each chamber’s original proposals, and represents our shared commitment to creating an accessible and productive Legislature that responds to the concerns of our constituents and delivers for Massachusetts.

We are deeply grateful to Senate Majority Leader Creem, House Majority Leader Moran, Senate Rules Chair Lovely, House Rules Chair Galvin, and all members of the conference committee for their thoughtful and collaborative work.

We look forward to filing the conference committee report and sharing details of the agreement later today, and to a productive legislative session strengthened by these new joint rules."

Statement shared from -> https://karenspilka.com/updates/statement-jointrules

Fact Sheet: Joint Rules Agreement of the 194th General Court of Massachusetts

Senate Majority Leader Cindy Creem and House Majority Leader Michael Moran announced on June 23, 2025, that they reached an agreement on joint legislative rules for the 194th General Court of Massachusetts. This bipartisan effort reflects a shared commitment to enhancing transparency, improving legislative efficiency, and ensuring accessible and accountable lawmaking for the people of the Commonwealth. Among the reforms are longer public notice periods for hearings, mandatory committee hearing livestreaming and archiving, an earlier reporting deadline for joint committees, the recording and posting of committee votes, new requirements for bill summaries, and rules ensuring more timely public access to conference committee reports. 

The joint rules will be implemented by the Senate and the House following a final vote by both chambers on the conference report. Highlights of the agreement are below.

Joint Committee Reform. Senate and House committee members will vote only on bills filed in their branch after joint hearings, improving efficiency and the pace at which bills move through the legislative process. Money bills filed in the Senate, constitutional amendments filed in the House, and any matters not filed by a member of the General Court will continue to be voted on by all members of a joint committee.

Public Hearing Notice. Notice time for joint committee hearings will increase from 72 hours to 10 days, giving residents and stakeholders more time to prepare. Joint committees must also post a schedule of hearing dates within three weeks of committee appointments.

Reporting Deadline. To prevent legislative backlogs, joint committees will be required to report bills by the first Wednesday in December of the first year of session, unless otherwise provided for in a branch’s rules. House Chairs will follow the reporting deadline under House Rule 27. This requires bills to be reported no later than 60 days after they’re heard, and at the discretion of the Chair, an additional 30 days can be added to consider the bill. The previous deadline was the first Wednesday in February of the second year of session.

Committee Votes. All joint committee votes shall be recorded and posted on the General Court website.

Committee Participation. Members of the public will be able to participate remotely in joint committee hearings, as will members of the General Court, unless prohibited by the rules of their respective branch. Attendance of joint committee members will be taken at hearings and posted on the General Court website.

Conference Committees. The first conference committee meeting will be open to the public and media for greater transparency. A minimum of 24 hours of will be required between a conference committee report filing and a legislative vote, allowing more time for review by legislators and members of the public. If a conference committee report is filed after 8:00pm, it cannot be voted on until the second calendar day following the day on which it was filed.

Bill Summaries. Joint committees will be required to make a summary of each bill publicly available on the General Court website prior to its hearing.

Publicly Available Testimony. Joint committees will adopt rules making written testimony publicly available. Said rules will contain limitations on the sharing of testimony that includes sensitive personal information, obscene content, or information that may jeopardize the health, wellness or safety of the testifier or others.

Joint Rules Review. At the end of the two-year session, the Joint Committee on Rules will conduct a comprehensive review of the joint rules. As part of the review, it will conduct a public hearing and solicit testimony from the public and other interested parties.

Formal Sessions after July 31. Permits the Legislature to meet in formal session after July 31 in the second year of the legislative session to take up the following matters: reports of conference committees formed on or before July 31; appropriation bills filed after July 31; gubernatorial vetoes or amendments.

Fact Sheet shared from -> https://karenspilka.com/updates/factsheet-jointrules

Senate President Karen Spilka: We're in this together

My statement regarding the presidential election results

Updates from Beacon Hill & MetroWest Dear Friends,    I'd like to share with you a statement I recently issued regarding the recent presidential election results: "Massachusetts may be the home of American democracy, but it is also the community we call home—and I take the responsibility to protect our community—and its residents—very seriously. In Massachusetts, we will always uphold the right to respectfully disagree, speak our minds, worship the way we choose, be our true selves, and love who we love. We have faced an anti-democratic presidency before, and we responded by doubling down on defending reproductive freedom, protecting the health care of all our residents regardless of gender or gender identity, strengthening voter protections, and creating comprehensive climate policy to protect our state—and our nation—from the devastating effects of climate change. The Massachusetts State Senate stands ready to fight for the fundamental values our Commonwealth holds dear once again. As we wait for our country to turn yet another page, we are reminded that Massachusetts is a Commonwealth—and we are all charged with the responsibility of caring for each other, regardless of background or political affiliation. We have been a leader and a model for our nation in so many ways throughout our long history. Now, more than ever, we must continue to be a light of democracy and justice for all." As always, if my office can be of assistance to you or your family, please don't hesitate to reach out at karen.spilka@masenate.gov or call 617-722-1500.   karenspilka.com Want more frequent updates? Follow us on social

Senate President Karen E. Spilka | Massachusetts State House Room 332 | Boston, MA 02133 US