Senate Passes Sweeping Social Equity Cannabis

Senate Passes Sweeping Social Equity Cannabis Bill

The Massachusetts Senate on Thursday passed S.2801, An Act Relative to Equity in the Cannabis Industry. Through the creation of a new fund that aims to support equity in the cannabis industry and improvements to the local licensing process, the bill levels the industry playing field to help members of communities disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition and enforcement take part in the Commonwealth's growing cannabis market.

"I'm proud that when the Senate and the Legislature legalized the commercial marijuana industry in 2017, we prioritized the creation of a first-in-the-nation equity program," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "Unfortunately, many barriers continue to prevent those historically harmed by marijuana prohibition from entering the industry. Today's bill takes important steps to address these by providing resources to support social equity businesses and putting guardrails in place on the Host Community Agreement process. I thank Chair Rodrigues and Senator Chang-Diaz for their work to bring this legislation forward."

"The legislation we passed today builds upon the goals that we have always had for the cannabis industry here in the Commonwealth - protecting consumers, supporting small business, and promoting social equity," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I want to thank Senate President Spilka for her leadership, along with Senator Chang-Diaz, Senator Cyr, Senator Jehlen and others for advocating to make sure Massachusetts remains a cannabis industry leader. Ultimately, this bill passed by the Senate promotes the continued growth of a competitive and equitable industry here in our state and I hope to see it advance to the Governor's desk very soon."

"Addressing racial justice in our state means getting real about closing our cavernous racial wealth divide," said Senator Sonia Chang-Díaz (D-Boston). "With this bill, Massachusetts will reclaim our leadership role, carving a path to make equity a reality in the cannabis industry. Lowering entry costs and opening up new avenues to capital will put this multi-billion dollar industry within reach for many talented equity entrepreneurs."

"When we passed recreational cannabis legislation five years ago, we sought to ensure the Commonwealth's budding cannabis industry would be equitable, diverse, and have ample avenues of entry for small-scale and Black and Brown-led entrepreneurship," said Assistant Majority Whip Julian Cyr (D-Truro). "Regrettably, the Legislature's intention to build an industry rooted in social justice has not yet been fully realized. Today we are living up to that promise by establishing guardrails on host-community agreements, allowing communities interested in pursuing social consumption sites to do so, and empowering a strong, vibrant, local cannabis industry with a robust cannabis equity fund."

"Limiting the cost of operation is part of promoting social equity and repairing harm to communities harmed by War On Drugs, by lowering one of many barriers to entry with the host community agreement reform in this bill," said Senator Patricia Jehlen (D-Somerville). "I hope this new bill is even clearer in stating the intent of the law and the ability of the CCC to achieve the goals of promoting social equity. High costs of cannabis have helped preserve the illicit market for cannabis and this bill will take significant steps to expand business opportunities and lower costs across the commonwealth."

Social Equity Fund

The bill builds upon existing Massachusetts law, which legalized adult-use cannabis and made a first-in-the-nation commitment to equity in the cannabis industry. A combination of high entry costs and lack of access to capital have kept many would-be entrepreneurs from taking part, resulting in fewer than seven percent of cannabis licenses in Massachusetts going to social equity businesses.

Opening an average cannabis retail shop can require $1 to $1.5 million in liquidity, and the numbers are even higher for manufacturing facilities --at around $3-$5 million. Since federal cannabis laws prevent these businesses from accessing traditional bank loans, lack of capital can pose an insurmountable barrier, leaving many entrepreneurs vulnerable to predatory financial deals and damaging equity partnerships. The social equity fund, created by the legislation, would facilitate new access to capital by making grants and loans, including forgivable and no-interest loans, to equity applicants. The fund has the support of the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), whose commissioners voted unanimously to endorse the idea earlier this legislative session. The fund will receive ten percent of annual revenue collected from the marijuana excise tax (an estimated $18 million for FY2023). Massachusetts is poised to join a handful of other states in pioneering this program.

 

Host Community Agreements

The bill also responds to concerns about the process of negotiating Host Community Agreements (HCAs), which have been identified as a key factor in keeping industry entry costs high. The bill re-affirms that fees in HCAs cannot exceed three percent of a cannabis business' annual gross sales and must be reasonably related to the costs associated with hosting a cannabis business in a city or town.

Other components of the bill include:

• Incentives for municipalities to prioritize equity, through a portion of the marijuana excise tax that is distributed to cities and towns that host social equity marijuana businesses. This is cost-neutral to the consumer.
  
  
• A requirement that the CCC establish rules and regulations for municipalities to promote full participation in the industry by previously harmed communities.
  
  
• Clarifications to the existing law's authorization of social consumption businesses, clearing a path for municipalities to permit on-site cannabis consumption businesses in their city or town via local ordinance as well as local referendum. Currently, many residents, particularly renters and those who live in public housing, do not have a location where they may legally consume cannabis products, even nine years since voters approved medical marijuana and five years since the approval of adult use.

The bill now moves to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for further consideration.

Link to actual legislation -> S.2801, An Act Relative to Equity in the Cannabis Industry
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S2801

Massachusetts Legislature Passes Legislation to Foster Greater Equity in Cannabis Industry

The Massachusetts Legislature passed legislation, An Act relative to equity in the cannabis industry, that encourages and facilitates participation in the cannabis industry from communities disproportionally harmed by marijuana criminalization by creating a Social Equity Trust Fund. The bill also strengthens the host community agreement process and clarifies procedures for permitting social consumption sites.

"The passage of this legislation will help to ensure that those who have been historically impacted by marijuana prohibition can find new opportunity in the emerging industry," said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). "This legislation will help to support folks who have faced generations of inequality secure the needed capital to launch a cannabis business. I want to thank Chair Donahue and the conferees, my colleagues in the House, as well as Senate President Spilka and our partners in the Senate for the hard work required to get this done."

"I am thrilled we were able to reach a deal on this bill, which will take meaningful steps toward ensuring communities who have historically been harmed by marijuana criminalization can access resources to enter this industry," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "I'd like to thank Chair Rodrigues as well as Senators Comerford and Fattman and all of the Senators who have worked so hard on this issue, Speaker Mariano and our partners in the House, and all of the conferees for advancing this important issue forward."

"This legislation's inclusion of a social equity trust fund will allow social equity entrepreneurs equal access to the cannabis industry. Further, this legislation will update the Commonwealth's expungement processes to allow for individuals with past cannabis related charges a path forward in expunging their criminal records," said Representative Daniel M. Donahue (D-Worcester), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy. "This bill has been considered by the legislature for the past four years; we are proud to have come to an agreement to move the cannabis industry forward in Massachusetts and to have removed barriers for those most disadvantaged by the war on drugs in Massachusetts."

"The conference report we passed today builds upon the goals that we have always had for the cannabis industry here in the Commonwealth—protecting consumers, supporting small business, and promoting social equity," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I want to thank Senate President Spilka for her leadership, along with Senator Chang-Diaz, Senator Cyr, Senator Jehlen and others for advocating to make sure Massachusetts remains a cannabis industry leader. Ultimately, this conference report passed by the Senate promotes the continued growth of a competitive and equitable industry here in our state."

Establishes the Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund

This legislation creates a trust fund to make grants and loans to social equity program participants and economic empowerment priority applicants, which will give entrepreneurs from communities that have been disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition and enforcement better access to grants and loans to get their businesses off the ground.

Fifteen per cent of the revenue collected from the sale of marijuana and marijuana products must be transferred to the Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund, which will be administered by the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development (EOHED), in consultation with a newly created Cannabis Social Equity Advisory Board.

"This legislation will create a more equitable cannabis industry in the Commonwealth and I am pleased to see it reach the Governor's desk," stated Senator Joanne M. Comerford (D-Northampton), "I am deeply grateful for the hard work put into this bill by the conferees, led by Senator Rodrigues and Representative Donahue. They approached this issue with expertise and compassion and the resulting bill will bring more diversity and equity to this industry."

Clarifies the host community agreements process

The legislation clarifies the Cannabis Control Commission's (CCC) role in reviewing and approving host community agreements (HCA), which are executed between marijuana businesses and their host municipalities. It authorizes the Commission to prioritize social equity program businesses and economic empowerment priority applicants for expedited review.

The legislation also clarifies the scope of HCAs and adds new criteria, such as:

• No host community agreement can include a community impact fee that is beyond the business's eighth year of operation.
• The community impact fee must be reasonably related to the actual costs required to operate a cannabis business in a community.
• The CCC must review and approve each host community agreement as part of the license application and renewal process.
• All host communities must establish procedures and policies to encourage full participation in the regulated marijuana industry by people from communities that have been disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition and enforcement.

"I am proud this body is taking steps to reform the HCA process and bringing forward better options for the growing cannabis industry in the Commonwealth," said Representative Mathew J. Muratore (R-Plymouth).

"I am proud to have served on the conference committee on the cannabis and social equity bill, which expands access to the cannabis industry," said Senator Ryan C. Fattman (R-Sutton). "America is the land of opportunity, and it is crucial that it is available to all. Our founding principles are based on these ideals, and we must be persistent in our pursuit of equity of opportunity in our economy today."

Clarifies the local social consumption approval process

The social consumption policy, which would allow the sale of marijuana and marijuana products for consumption on the premises where sold, is authorized by existing law. However, this legislation amends it to ensure proper procedures are taken regarding local initiative petitions. Under this legislation, as an alternative to local initiative petitions, a city or town may also allow for social consumption sites through the passage of a by-law or ordinance.

Expedites the expungement process

For individuals seeking to expunge a record for previous offenses that are now decriminalized, this legislation requires the court to order the expungement of the record within 30 days of the request and expunge records for possession of marijuana or distribution of marijuana based on the now legal amount.

Having been passed by the Senate and the House, An Act relative to equity in the cannabis industry now goes to the Governor for his signature.

Text of the legislation can be found -> https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S3096

Massachusetts Legislature Passes Legislation to Foster Greater Equity in Cannabis Industry

Food Marketed to Children

Are you concerned about government guidelines on food? Particularly, those where they cover food marketing to children? You have a chance to have your say. Excerpts from the full document here (PDF) reveal the objectives of the guidelines and feedback needed:

The Interagency Working Group on Food Marketed to Children (Working Group), comprised of representatives from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), seeks public comment on a preliminary proposal for voluntary principles to guide industry self-regulatory efforts to improve the nutritional profile of foods marketed to children. The Working Group has drafted these principles pursuant to a directive from Congress, as set out in the 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act. As directed by Congress, the Working Group has developed this proposal based on the nutrition, health, and marketing expertise of the member agencies, with the goal of improving children’s diets and addressing the high rates of childhood obesity. Marketing can be an effective tool to encourage children to make better food choices, and voluntary adoption by industry of strong, uniform nutrition and marketing principles, like those proposed here, will advance the goal of promoting children’s health. 

Public comment is sought to help inform the Working Group in shaping its recommendations for enhanced industry self-regulatory efforts as part of a report requested by Congress. Comments are not being requested as the basis for regulation. The recommendations include principles addressing the nutritional quality of foods that are most heavily marketed to children. They also include proposed definitions of advertising, promotion, and other marketing activities targeting children ages 2-11 years and adolescents ages 12-17 years to which the nutrition principles would apply. The Working Group seeks public comment on both the nutrition principles and the definitions of marketing targeted to children and adolescents. Comments must be received no later than June 13, 2011
,,,,

The primary objective of the Working Group in developing recommendations for nutrition principles for foods marketed to children has been the promotion of children’s health through better diet, with particular – but not sole – emphasis on reducing the incidence of childhood obesity. The proposed recommendations are therefore designed to encourage children, through advertising and marketing, to choose foods that make a meaningful contribution to a healthful diet (Principle A) and minimize consumption of foods with significant amounts of nutrients that could have a negative impact on health or weight – specifically, sodium, saturated fat, trans fat, and added sugars (Principle B). 

The Working Group recommends that, as industry develops new products and reformulates existing products, it should strive to create foods that meet both of these two basic nutrition principles. It further recommends that industry focus these efforts on those categories of foods that are most heavily marketed directly to children, such as breakfast cereals, carbonated beverages, restaurant foods and snack foods. The proposed principles, if fully implemented by industry for these categories, should lead to significant improvements in the overall nutritional profile of foods marketed to children.  

The Working Group recommends that industry work toward the goal that all foods within the categories most heavily advertised or otherwise marketed directly to children and adolescents would meet the nutrition principles by the year 2016. The Working Group acknowledges that this is an ambitious goal, but believes it is warranted by the urgent need to improve children’s diets and health and address the epidemic of childhood obesity.
,,,,

The Working Group seeks comment on its two proposed nutrition principles, including the recommendation that industry focus its self-regulatory efforts on the categories of foods most heavily marketed to children. The Working Group is proposing two possible approaches for assessing whether a food product meets Principle A – making a meaningful contribution to a healthful diet. The Working Group is also proposing specific targets for saturated fat, trans fat, added sugars, and sodium content to meet Principle B – minimizing consumption of foods with significant amounts of these nutrients that could have a negative impact on health or weight. Finally, the Working Group is seeking comment on its proposed goal that all foods within the categories most heavily marketed to children meet these two nutrition principles by the year 2016.

You can review the full document here (PDF) and find the details on how to provide feedback.

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.

Sen Spilka: Supporting Massachusetts' Innovation Economy

Dear Steve, As I write this the sun is shining and the snow is melting away; I bet you are looking forward to spring as much as I am. Like the weather, the economic news for Massachusetts is getting brighter all the time. Last week, the state jobs report showed that Massachusetts added 16,100 jobs and our unemployment rate held steady at 6.7 percent, far below the national average of 7.7 percent. It is wonderful to report that so many residents are finding work - but many are still looking so in the Legislature we need to keep working on promoting economic growth and job creation. One important focus must be on the technology industries that help drive our state's economy. If Massachusetts can maintain its competitive edge, those industries will continue to create jobs. In our state, this sector includes over 10,300 businesses, and directly and indirectly supports the employment of nearly half a million residents! It is important that government officials be aware of the goals, capabilities, and reach of the tech economy. To help make that happen, last month I started the Tech Hub Caucus in the legislature. This newsletter highlights some of the many activities related to this industry, which has companies and entrepreneurs working in every region of the Commonwealth. For more on this vibrant industry, check out this short video, Tech Everywhere, which provides some insight into the tech sector's richness and diversity in Massachusetts. As always, if I can be of any assistance to you, please contact my office at (617) 722-1640 or email me at Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov. Kind Regards,   Tech Hub Caucus Launched in Massachusetts Legislature: Promoting Public-Private Partnerships to Grow and Support Critical Economic Engine Senator Spilka addresses the audience at launch of Tech Hub Caucus On February 28th, through active collaboration with technology industry leaders and my colleagues in the legislature and administration, I officially launched the Tech Hub Caucus. This collaboration will connect legislators with industry officials and shine a spotlight on technology's far-reaching economic importance and its significance to the Commonwealth's employees, firms, and residents. The Caucus will give legislators the chance to work with leaders of technology companies and find out what the industry needs to thrive in Massachusetts. Our goal is to do whatever we can to be sure that next-generation tech innovation starts here, stays here, and grows here.  The launch of the Caucus was recognized at a ceremony at the State House, which included hands-on demonstrations of the amazing work of some of our top tech firms and a roundtable discussion with Massachusetts industry leaders. William Teuber, Vice Chairman of EMC Corporation, delivered the keynote address.   Click here to read more on the launch of the Caucus. Click here to read The Boston Globe's coverage or here to read the piece by the Boston Business Journal. Check out more photos from the event here. MassChallenge is the largest-ever startup accelerator, helping early-stage entrepreneurs in Massachusetts and beyond by connecting them with the resources they need to successfully launch their companies. On February 13th, MassChallenge kicked off its 2013 season. The 4 month start up accelerator program provides participants with world-class mentoring and training, free office space, access to funding, legal advice, co-founders, media exposure, and more. All early-stage startups can apply - from anywhere and from any industry. This year's program will include over $1 million in grant funding and over $10 million of in-kind deals - all with no strings attached. Since 2010, the 361 startups participating in the MassChallenge accelerator classes have generated nearly $100 million in revenue, raised over $362 million in outside funding, and created nearly 3,000 new jobs! Applications are now open until April 3rd. Visit www.masschallenge.org for application details, full accelerator benefits, and other information.     Middle and high school students, their parents, teachers, and guidance counselors are invited to attend the MetroWest Tinkershop at MassBay Community College's Wellesley Hills Campus. At the Tinkershop, kids use the latest tools to design and create - getting a real feel for how technology is built. Professionals will be on hand to discuss their own jobs and the skills necessary for these 21st century careers. This innovative event should spark an interest in advanced manufacturing and will feature a number of fun building projects for these students, parents, and educators.   MassBay Community College's Wellesley Campus Room 320 Thursday, March 14, 2013 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Click here for more information and to register. MassTech Intern Partnership Senator Spilka speaks at today's kick-off of the MassTech Intern Partnership at hack/reduce, a Big Data community workspace in Cambridge Today was the official launch of the MassTech Intern Partnership, a new public-private effort that will provide grants for college student internships at tech companies in Massachusetts, particularly startups and smaller firms. The program gives students and recent college graduates a direct pathway to internship opportunities with businesses and startups in the innovative technology sector. This will not only provide students with unique work opportunities, it will also help us strengthen our pipeline of talented and skilled workers in this cutting-edge industry. Last July, the legislature established this dynamic internship program in the 2012 Economic Development and Jobs Creation Act. It is one of the first recommendations of the Jobs Creation Commission to be implemented. The project is led by the Innovation Institute at the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, which is working with leading public and private universities, technology councils, and venture capitalists to connect Massachusetts students to exciting employers.   Students interested in the program can access the intern application form here. And tech sector companies interested in participating can fill out a company application form here. For more information, please visit www.masstech.org/intern.  TechSandBox TechSandBox - a new innovation center and incubator - will open this month in MetroWest. The goal is to provide one-stop access to the funding, office space, resources, and mentoring that local startups need to be successful.   Started by tech sector entrepreneur Barbara Finer, TechSandBox will accelerate the success of science and technology startups and entrepreneurs based in the more than 30 towns located near the I-495, I-90, and Rt.9 corridors of Massachusetts - from Natick to Worcester and from Westford to Bellingham. For more on TechSandBox, please visit www.techsandbox.org. Join me on Facebook      Send me an email     Follow me on Twitter

Office of Karen Spilka | Office of State Senator Karen E. Spilka, Room 511-C, State House | Boston, MA 02133

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FTC Action Leads to Lifetime Industry Ban for Operators of ‘Extended Vehicle Warranty’ Scam

"As a result of a Federal Trade Commission lawsuit, the operators of a telemarketing scam that called hundreds of thousands of consumers nationwide to pitch them expensive “extended automobile warranties” will face a lifetime ban from the extended automobile warranty industry and from all outbound telemarketing.

Under the terms of proposed court orders, three companies and their owners that were charged by the FTC with running the operation that scammed consumers out of millions of dollars would be permanently banned from participating in the extended automobile warranty market, as well as from any further involvement in outbound telemarketing.

“AVP misled consumers about who they were and what they were selling and called a large number of consumers who were on the FTC’s Do Not Call List,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Today’s order banning five defendants from the industry and imposing a monetary judgment of $6.6 million continues the Commission’s aggressive crackdown on telemarketing fraud.”

Continue reading the FTC press release ->

https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/03/ftc-action-leads-lifetime-industry-ban-operators-extended-vehicle-warranty-scam

FTC Action Leads to Lifetime Industry Ban for Operators of ‘Extended Vehicle Warranty’ Scam

On the climate front: aviation industry fails to meet climate targets; "‘carbon bombs’ set to trigger catastrophic climate breakdown"

"The international aviation industry has failed to meet all but one of 50 of its own climate targets in the past two decades, environment campaigners say.

A report commissioned by the climate charity Possible assessed every target set by the industry since 2000 and found that nearly all had been missed, revised or quietly ignored. The charity says the findings undermine a UK government plan to leave airlines to reduce their emissions through self-regulation.

Leo Murray, Possible’s director of innovation, said: “This forensic investigation shows just how implausible and credulous the government’s jet-zero strategy is shaping up to be. How can we credibly expect this industry to overdeliver on emissions reduction when they’ve never met any of their previous climate targets?

“It’s clear that we need to demand reduction via a frequent flyer levy, which would discourage the frequent flying by a small group of people which makes up the bulk of emissions from planes.”

Continue reading article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/may/10/just-one-of-50-aviation-industry-climate-targets-met-study-finds

Copy of the full report available -> https://www.wearepossible.org/latest-news/for-20-years-the-aviation-has-missed-all-but-one-of-their-sustainability-targets

 

Missed Targets Report

"The world’s biggest fossil fuel firms are quietly planning scores of “carbon bomb” oil and gas projects that would drive the climate past internationally agreed temperature limits with catastrophic global impacts, a Guardian investigation shows.

The exclusive data shows these firms are in effect placing multibillion-dollar bets against humanity halting global heating. Their huge investments in new fossil fuel production could pay off only if countries fail to rapidly slash carbon emissions, which scientists say is vital.

The oil and gas industry is extremely volatile but extraordinarily profitable, particularly when prices are high, as they are at present. ExxonMobil, Shell, BP and Chevron have made almost $2tn in profits in the past three decades, while recent price rises led BP’s boss to describe the company as a “cash machine”.

The lure of colossal payouts in the years to come appears to be irresistible to the oil companies, despite the world’s climate scientists stating in February that further delay in cutting fossil fuel use would mean missing our last chance “to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all”. As the UN secretary general, António Guterres, warned world leaders in April: “Our addiction to fossil fuels is killing us.”

Continue reading article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/ng-interactive/2022/may/11/fossil-fuel-carbon-bombs-climate-breakdown-oil-gas

 

Industry: Moseley Group

Continuing our series on local companies based in Franklin, I find the Moseley Group with this press release that is the most social media friendly I have seen to date.

Way to go Moseley Group!

FRANKLIN, MA – The Moseley Group, a leading food and beverage industry consulting firm, was chosen Thursday by the Governor’s Task Force on the Economic Sustainability of Maine’s Lobster Industry to help strengthen and improve the state’s leading fishery.

The Task Force, formed last fall after a sharp decline in lobster prices, chose The Moseley Group following a thorough review of more than a dozen proposals from marketing and consulting firms from across the country. Task Force members cited Moseley’s depth of experience in working with internationally known brands and products, such as Coca-Cola, Ocean Spray, Juan Valdez, McCain, Nestle and others, as a key factor in their choice.

Kristen Bailey, a vice-president at Moseley, will be the lead consultant on the project. A Maine native, Bailey is the former executive director of the Maine Lobster Promotion Council and was the architect of the Certified Maine Lobster program that was aimed at preserving markets and strengthening the Maine lobster brand. She operates offices in Portland, Maine and Franklin, Massachusetts.

“Working with Maine’s lobster industry is very rewarding and meaningful to me,” she said. “Our firm looks forward to utilizing our experience with other industries to help strengthen and improve the economic model of Maine’s lobster industry.”

The initial discovery phase of the project will begin with an industry panel meeting in Portland, scheduled for February 26.

For more about the Moseley Group check out their web site here.

For what their social media ready press release looks like visit here.

Franklin Public Schools Fifth Graders Recognized at One8 Applied Learning Hub Student Showcase

Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Director of Curriculum STEM Eric Stark are pleased to share that fifth-grade students from Lincoln Street and Washington Street Elementary Schools recently presented Applied Learning math projects to over 500 industry professionals at the One8 Applied Learning Hub Student Showcase in Boston.

Both schools received awards for their impressive group projects. Washington Street’s team won the ST Math category and Lincoln Street’s team won Project of Distinction. 

Fifth-grade students from Lincoln Street and
Washington Street Elementary Schools presented projects
at the One8 Applied Learning Hub Student Showcase
on May 8. (Photo Courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

Students first began working on the projects in February, when they were tasked with working in groups to create a tri-fold poster explaining an ST Math game they use in class.

ST Math is a supplemental math program that teaches mathematical concepts through visual puzzles. Through its visual depictions of math concepts, the program removes language barriers for students and utilizes interactive puzzles to explain ideas.

The project challenged students to introduce the game to someone unfamiliar with it. Students explained how the game helped them develop a mathematical skill or concept, and considered how industry professionals use math within their careers.

Students shared their projects with professionals from across the state, including individuals from organizations such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Liberty Mutual. They also presented to several local organizations, including the Town of Franklin, Franklin School Committee and Franklin Public Schools.

The professionals provided feedback and discussed the projects with students. Through the conversations, students learned about the process of applying concepts learned in the classroom to real world scenarios.

"Projects like this allow our students to understand the curriculum from a different perspective," said Washington Street Elementary School Principal Evan Chelman. "As our students collaborated to teach others a math concept, they approached the course material from a new angle. It was exciting to see them work together and incorporate the feedback community members provided."

With their revised projects, the fifth graders presented their work at Franklin High School during the Science National Honor Society’s Family Science Night on April 9.

The months of hard work paid off on May 8, when the students traveled to the TRACK at new balance and presented their projects at the One8 Applied Learning Hub Student Showcase. They received written and verbal feedback from industry professionals, whose notes praised the projects and allowed students to draw connections between their own and the professionals’ work.

“We prioritize aligning our curriculum and student experiences with current industry practices,” said Superintendent Giguere. “Through our partnerships with the One8 Applied Learning Hub and ST Math, our students can attend meaningful events such as the showcase. These opportunities allow them to see firsthand how their classroom lessons apply to the outside world."

The final product each group displayed at the showcase was a tri-fold poster with an ST Math puzzle and description, the math concept behind the game, the connection between the game and the real world and how it relates to at least one profession.

“We are very proud of the groups that presented at the One8 Student Showcase,” said Lincoln Street Elementary School Principal Brad Hendrixson. “The months of hard work paid off as our students took home multiple awards and had insightful conversations with industry professionals. These hands-on events truly make a difference in our students' learning experience, and we were happy to see them thrive during their showcase presentations."

About the One8 Foundation and the One8 Applied Learning Hub

The One8 education team identifies, supports and scales high impact programs and approaches that help schools and teachers prepare students for success in a rapidly changing, data rich world. One8 imagines a future where high-quality applied learning opportunities that make learning relevant, stimulating and rewarding are a regular part of the student experience driving impact for all students. 

The One8 Applied Learning Hub helps Massachusetts schools get the most out of Applied Learning programs by providing implementation support, educator community building, and student opportunities that bring learning to life. The One8 Applied Learning Hub currently supports seven programs in the Commonwealth: the Democratic Knowledge Project, Investigating History, OpenSciEd, PBLWorks, Project Lead The Way, Skew the Script, and ST Math. 

Visit www.one8.org and www.one8alhub.org to learn more.

Additional photos can be found - https://photos.app.goo.gl/BqXRa4vnYddi331X7

Tri-County: Zero-Cost Training Culinary Arts Program

"Are you interested in starting a career in culinary? We have open spots in our Zero-Cost Culinary Arts Training program!  

Apply here: https://www.tri-county.us/o/tri-county-vocational-tech/page/zero-cost-training"

Zero-Cost Training Culinary Arts Program

Students will learn the entry-level requirements for entering the food service industry. This will include how to safely store, prepare, cook, and serve food products. Participants will develop and understand the required customer service skills to be part of a successful culinary operation.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

• Learn skillsets required to begin a career in the Culinary Arts Industry. Including essential employability and entrepreneurial skills. 
• Achieve Industry Certifications required for all aspects of the food industry
• Career Fair at completion of program with businesses seeking employees
• Learn entrepreneurial skills based on a Food Truck model industry that applies to all facets of the Culinary Arts profession.

Program runs Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 4 PM -  9:30 PM

www.tri-county.us

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