Fall 2024 Newsletter
Fall 2024 Newsletter

 

Friends,

Happy Thanksgiving! 

I am honored the voters of the 7th Hampden District have entrusted me with a second term as your State Representative. 

We have tremendous opportunities and significant challenges to address over the next two years. I am grateful for the privilege to continue my work on your behalf.

Please keep reading to learn more about my recent community engagement and legislative activities. As always, do not hesitate to contact my office if I can ever be of assistance.

Take Care,
Aaron
Sweeping Economic Development Bill Signed by Governor Healey
On Wednesday, November 20th, Governor Maura Healey signed into law the Mass Leads Act, an economic development bill that will make Massachusetts a global leader in emerging industries like climate-tech and applied artificial intelligence (AI), while building on the success of the state's life sciences sector.

Earlier this month, the Massachusetts Legislature passed the sweeping economic development bill authorizing a nearly $4 billion investment into the Commonwealth's economy while making wide-ranging policy changes to make Massachusetts more competitive.

The bold investments in the Mass Leads Act, also known as H.5100, An Act relative to strengthening Massachusetts' economic leadership, will stimulate new and proven industries, support workforce development and talent retention, and modernize economic growth strategies. Provisions of the bill will support small businesses, communities, and cultural development, ensuring that businesses across the Commonwealth benefit from the economic boost.

Included in bond authorizations are $3.5 million to be expended to Westmass Area Development Corporation for the revitalization of the Ludlow Mill District and $1 million to be expended to the Town of Belchertown for the redevelopment of town-owned buildings formerly of the Belchertown State School. 
On Budget, Ahead of Time, & Incident Free
November saw the topping off ceremony for the Veterans Home in Holyoke. A significant milestone, borne out of a terrible tragedy.

Representative Saunders was honored to join his colleagues in government including Governor Maura Healey and Congressman Richard Neal, to celebrate the next phase of this building and the state's commitment to those who served our country. 

Thank you, Iron Workers Local 7 and the entirety of the tradesmen and tradeswomen of the Massachusetts Building Trades Union for the safe and timely progress on this endeavor.
West-East Rail Receives Additional Funding
Representative Saunders joined Congressman Richard Neal and his colleagues in state government at Union Station in Springfield to announce over $36,000,000 in new federal funding for West-East rail secured by Congressman Neal. 

This transformative investment will fund the critical next steps required to expand rail service from the Berkshires to Boston. 
District Receives Municipal Road Safety Grant Funds
Saunders Tours Boston Dynamics Facility 
In September, Representative Saunders had the opportunity to visit Boston Dynamics to witness the advancements being made in robotics in the state of Massachusetts. 

Robotics plays a vital role in creating new opportunities and driving innovation across multiple industries in the Commonwealth. From revolutionizing manufacturing to advancing healthcare solutions, this technology is positioning our state as a leader in the next era of economic growth.

As an added bonus, Representative Saunders met with Boston Dynamics' Chief Technology Officer Aaron Saunders (you read that right!) for some hands-on experience with 'Spot', Boston Dynamics' Agile Mobile Robot!
Saunders 'Digs' Shutesbury Public Library Groundbreaking
Representative Saunders joined legislative colleagues, local officials, and Shutesbury community members in August to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Shutesbury Public Library.

The new library is a testament to the dedication of local officials and community volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make this project a reality.
Ludlow 250th Celebrates Book Release
Congratulations to the Ludlow Mass 250th Book Committee on its 200 page publication documenting the history and accomplishments of Ludlow, MA!

Thank you to all members of the Ludlow Mass 250th Book Committee for the time, talent, and effort put into this project. 
Housing Secretary Visits Ludlow, Celebrates New Housing & Meets with Providers
In November, State Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus joined Representative Saunders in Ludlow to celebrate a new housing complex and discuss the challenges with addressing homelessness and affordable housing in Western Massachusetts.

Secretary Augustus and Representative Saunders met with local officials and developers to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of Mill 8. The opening of Mill 8 introduces new and much-needed housing stock to the region as municipalities, state officials, and community partners work to address current barriers to affordable housing.

In addition to the ribbon-cutting, Secretary Augustus met with Representative Saunders, additional state legislators, and affordable housing and emergency shelter providers in the region to hear feedback on the current trends and responses to homelessness and affordable housing availability in the region. 
Saunders Attends Children Advocacy Center's Hope & Healing Breakfast
In September, Representative Saunders had the privilege to attend the Children's Advocacy Center of Franklin County and North Quabbin's annual Hope and Healing Breakfast.

This powerful community event highlights the importance of comprehensive, multi-disciplinary responses to allegations of child abuse that are conducted in a child-friendly matter.

Proceeds from the breakfast are utilized to support the advocacy and individualized support services provided to child victims and non-0ffending family members by the CAC.
AACC Hosts Saunders & Colleagues at Legislative Breakfast
Representative Saunders joined legislative colleagues from across Western Massachusetts at the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce's annual legislative breakfast last month.

Representative Saunders emphasized the importance of equitable investment in Western Massachusetts throughout the discussion of the current policies and legislative advocacy initiatives that influence the regional economy.
Saunders Attends Annual 
 Ludlow Community Center & Randall Boys & Girls Club Meeting
The Ludlow Community Center and Randall Boys & Girls Club's Annual Meeting was a night of celebration and recognition for the remarkable staff members and volunteers whose work supports community members of all ages in Ludlow.

Congratulations to all award recipients and new board members!
Citations & Recognitions
Happy 100th Birthday to Ms. Mary Esteves of Ludlow!

Representative Saunders' legislative aide, Maddy Sinsley, joined Senator Oliveira at the Ludlow Senior Center in August to present Ms. Esteves with a citation in recognition of her milestone birthday on August 17.
Congratulations to William Koss, the Town of Ludlow's 2024 Veteran of the Year!

Representative Saunders was honored to present Mr. Koss with a House citation during Ludlow's annual Veterans Day Ceremony.

Thank you, Mr. Koss, for your sacrifice and service to our country. 
Congratulations to Gail Gramarossa on her retirement from her position as Prevention Director for the Quaboag Hills Substance Use Alliance (QHSUA)!

QHSUA is an organization whose mission is to prevent and reduce substance misuse, particularly amongst youth, in 17 communities across Hampshire, Hampden, and Worcester counties. Belchertown is included in their service area.

To learn more about or get involved with QHSUA, visit their website!
Congratulations to Sue Hevey of Belchertown on the 30th anniversary of her business, Clay Mates!

In October, Representative Saunders joined Senator Oliveira at Clay Mates, a paint your own pottery and ceramics studio in Belchertown, to present Ms. Hevey with a congratulatory citation.

The Representative declined to comment on his painting skills.
Contact Information
State Representative Saunders: aaron@aaronsaunders.org

District Office Phone: (413) 252-9775
Summer 2024 Newsletter
Summer 2024 Newsletter

 

Friends,

I hope that you all are enjoying your summer and staying cool during the warmer weather.

This summer, the legislature has been hard at work passing a number of significant pieces of legislation. I am proud to serve as your Representative and advocate for the needs of the 7th Hampden district and Western Massachusetts throughout the legislative process.

Please keep reading to learn more about my legislative activities and community engagement. As always, do not hesitate my office if I can ever be of assistance.


Take Care,
Aaron
Community Office Hours 

Friday, August 9th
Wendell & New Salem
1:00 - 2:00 pm
Wendell Free Library, 7 Wendell Depot Road

Petersham
2:30 - 3:30 pm
Petersham Memorial Library, 23 Common Street

Monday, August 12th
Shutesbury
1:00 - 2:00 pm
Shutesbury Town Hall, 1 Cooleyville Road

Pelham
2:30 - 3:30 pm
Pelham Public Library, 2 S Valley Road

Monday, August 19th
Belchertown
9:00 - 10:00 am
Belchertown Senior Center, 60 State Street

Ludlow
10:30 - 11:30 am
Ludlow Senior Center, 228 State Street
 
Saunders Supports 2025 State Budget Package, Secures Local Funding
Representative Saunders joined colleagues to deliver the legislature's final version of the state's 2025 budget to Governor Healey's desk on Friday, July 19th.

Total funding for the state budget comes to $58 billion and establishes historic levels of investment at all levels of education, transportation, workforce development, health care, and rural equity, reflecting the legislature's ongoing commitment to delivering on affordability for residents and economic competitiveness for the Commonwealth.

Included in the 2025 state budget are hundreds of thousands of dollars for items throughout the 7th Hampden district. This includes a $1.5 million increase in Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) for towns that steward state-owned land.

The state's commitment to affordable and accessible health care includes $20.36 billion for the operation of MassHealth, $622.4 million for the Department of Mental Health's adult support services, $390 million in Chapter 257 funding to support pay rates for direct care providers, and $15 million for the Healthy Incentives Program.

Education funding includes $175 million for the operation and permanent establishment of the Commonwealth Care for Children Grant Program, $170 million for universal school meals, and an increase in Chapter 70 funding from $30 to $104 per student.

Historic levels of investment continue as the Commonwealth has allocated $492.6 million for Transitional Assistance to Families with Dependent Children, $326.1 million for Emergency Assistance Family Shelters, $197.4 million for the operation of the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition program, and $113 million to local housing authorities.

Transportation funding includes $204 in operational support for regional transit authorities in addition to $110 million in Fair Share funding and grant opportunities, coming to a total investment of $314 million.
Legislature Passes Bill Targeting Revenge Porn, Enhances Protections for Survivors
Saunders joined colleagues in the House of Representatives and Senate to enact legislation addressing image-based sexual harassment, coercive control, and extending the statute of limitations for specific domestic violence offenses.

This crucial piece of legislation turned state law enhances privacy protections for victims and survivors, of all ages, of image-based sexual harassment and targets phenomenon such as teen sexting and revenge porn. 
House Passes Landmark Economic Development Bond Bill, Saunders Delivers Speech in Support of Project Labor Agreements
On July 27th, the House of Representatives passed a $3.4 billion economic development bond bill that will promote industry innovation, the creation of new jobs, and economic opportunity across the Commonwealth.

Representative Saunders delivered his first speech on the floor of the House Chamber in support of this legislation and proposed policy to authorize municipalities to use project labor agreements in large construction projects.

Included in the bond package are millions of dollars to support the implementation of carbon neutral infrastructure and the redevelopment of municipal and residential buildings within the 7th Hampden district.

Click the image below to watch Representative Saunders' maiden speech. 
Pictured: State Representative Aaron Saunders delivers maiden speech in support of project labor agreements
Saunders Supports Historic Affordable Housing Bond Bill, Increased Funding for PFAS Testing & Filtration
The House of Representatives passed a historic $6.5 billion housing development bond bill in early June in response to the current housing crisis to support the development of affordable, environmentally conscious housing opportunities across the state. The bond authorization package is the largest investment in affordable and middle-income housing, as well as critical housing infrastructure, in the history of the Commonwealth.

Included in bond authorizations are hundreds of thousands of dollars to allocate to municipalities across the Commonwealth, including the 7th Hampden district, for testing and filtration equipment necessary for the detection of and response to PFAS in the water supply for residential buildings.
Saunders Helps Pass Location Shield Act, Increasing Privacy Protections for Reproductive Care
Representative Saunders voted in favor of legislation to prohibit the sale of cellphone data collected during visits to health care facilities in Massachusetts that offer reproductive and gender affirming health care services. 

Data brokers are currently authorized to sell data tracking the location of cellphone users that can reveal sensitive information about an individual's health care activities. In the wake of the Dobb's decision, the legislature heard reports that location data firms were selling location information related to patients' visits to Planned Parenthood, which could be used to target and harass individuals and providers.

The House passed the Location Shield Act on July 10th bringing Massachusetts one step closer to enacting this crucial policy change.
House Adopts Legislation to Address Home Equity Theft
On June 26th the House of Representatives convened to pass legislation to align current Massachusetts statute with the recent Supreme Court decision in Tyler v. Hennepin County, Minnesota regarding home equity theft.

The bill secures the rights of property owners to reclaim any excess equity to which they are entitled after all taxes and fees are repaid to municipalities following a tax foreclosure, while substantially increasing notifications and other protections for property owners throughout the foreclosure process. 

"Folks who are facing a tax taking must have clear access to all of their rights under the law," said Representative Aaron Saunders (D-Belchertown),''This bill will ensure this to be the case as well as protect homeowners from predatory collectors looking to take advantage of people already in a difficult position."
Wendell Farm Tour Highlights Importance of Agriculture in Western Massachusetts
On May 30th, Representative Saunders joined Senator Comerford in welcoming Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Commissioner Ashley Randle to Diemand Farm in Wendell.

Diemand Farm is a third generation farm that distributes local products across the region and is an integral contributor to our state and local food systems.
Saunders Speaks At Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast
The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Representative Saunders and colleagues Representative Whipps, Representative Blais, and Senator Comerford to the Eaglebrook School for the Chamber's their legislative breakfast on June 21st.

Representative Saunders and colleagues spoke on their policy and budget priorities reflecting on issues ranging from lack of elder care to transportation barriers that need to be addressed for residents of Western Massachusetts.

A highlight of the breakfast was information regarding the $3 million Farm Resiliency Farm and $20 million in legislative funding to support farmers in the western and central regions of the state impacted by severe weather events in July 2023.
Special Legislation Honors Army Specialist Kenneth J. Iwasinki with Memorial Bridge
Over Memorial Day weekend Representative Saunders had the honor of participating in the ceremony dedicating the Route 9 bridge over the Swift River to the memory of Specialist Kenneth "Kenny"J. Iwasinski. Spc. Iwasinski gave the ultimate sacrifice on October 14, 2007 in Baghdad, Iraq.

The dedication of this bridge will ensure that Kenny will not be forgotten and serves as a fitting tribute to the sacrifice he made. The ceremony also reminds us of not only the obligation we have to Kenny's memory, but the debt our community and country owes to Gold Star families.

The ceremony featured co-petitioner of the legislation to designate the bridge, Senator Oliveira and colleagues Senator Velis, Representative Smola, and Senator Durant.

A special thank you to Belchertown Veterans' Services VSO Charly Oliva for her tireless work organizing the event. 
Saunders & Oliveira March Celebrate Ludlow's 250th Anniversary!
Pictured: State Representative Aaron Saunders and State Senator Jake Oliveira march in the Ludlow 250th Commemoration Parade
The Town of Ludlow continued their celebration of the 250th anniversary of the town with a parade and block party picnic on June 15th!

A special thank you to the members of the Ludlow 250th Celebration Committee for their work organizing
Ludlow Library Hosts Visit From Massachusetts Library Board of Commissioners 
On July 15th Representative Saunders and Senator Oliveira joined Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners Chair Vicky Biancolo and Commissioner Karen Traub at Hubbard Memorial Library in Ludlow for a tour of the building and discussion with Library Trustees Linda Collette and Ruth Saunders on the importance of combating political censorship in our communities' public libraries. 
Citations & Recognitions
On Wednesday, Representative Saunders and Senator Oliveira welcomed Ludlow resident and star high school wrestling champion, Samantha Bertini, to the State House.

Samantha made history earlier this month as the first girl from Massachusetts to win a title at the wrestling competition Fargo Nationals in North Dakota!
In May, Representative Saunders joined Caballos de Paso and the Granby Regional Horse Council with his colleagues, Representative Arriaga and Representative Pease, to celebrate and recognize the contribution of the legacy horse riders in Western Massachusetts that advocate for the protection of horses and promote equestrian sports in Western Massachusetts.
Earlier this month the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Cooley Dickinson Hospital, announced the recipients of their joint scholarship program recognizing student achievements in academics, extracurricular activities, and community engagement. Included amongst the awardees is Belchertown High School senior, Emalee Chiasson.

Emalee intends to study occupational therapy at Springfield College with the goal of becoming an occupational therapist.
On June 26th the House of Representatives stood in a moment of silent tribute to the memory of Helen Garrow, 93, of Ludlow. 

Ms. Garrow dedicated her life to public service and served as Ludlow Town Treasure for 12 years until her retirement in 2000. Prior to this role, Ms. Garrow served as Executive Director of the Ludlow Housing Authority, Secretary of the Safety and Finance Committee, Chairperson of the Ludlow Democratic Town Committee, a member of the Board of Selectmen, and President of Western Mass Elder Care. 
Contact Information
State Representative Saunders: aaron@aaronsaunders.org

District Office Phone: (413) 252-9775
Spring 2024 Newsletter
March & April 2024 Newsletter

 

Friends,

To all who celebrated, I hope you had a lovely Passover.

I trust that you are all enjoying the start of Spring and the recent sunny weather.

Last week the Massachusetts House of Representative debated amendments to H.4101, the draft FY25 budget released by the House Committee on Ways and Means earlier this month. It was a privilege to advocate for the needs of the 7th Hampden district and Western Massachusetts throughout this process.

In addition to the budget, I'm excited to provide updates on my legislative activities and community engagement activities with you. As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office with any thoughts or questions.

Take Care,
Aaron
Upcoming Community Office Hours 

Friday, May 10th
Wendell 
1:00 - 2:00 pm
Wendell Free Library, 7 Wendell Depot Road

Petersham
2:30 - 3:30 pm
Petersham Memorial Library, 23 Common Street

Monday, May 13th
Shutesbury
10:30 - 11:30 am
Shutesbury Town Hall, 1 Cooleyville Road

Pelham
2:30 - 3:30 pm
Pelham Public Library, 2 S Valley Road

Monday, May 20th
Belchertown
9:00 - 10:00 am
Belchertown Senior Center, 60 State Street

Ludlow
10:30 - 11:30 am
Ludlow Senior Center, 228 State Street
 
Saunders Officially on the Ballot for November 2024!
Aaron Saunders (D - Belchertown) is officially on the ballot as a candidate for State Representative of the 7th Hampden district in the November 2024 election.

Thank you to all who attended Representative Saunders' at the Villa Rose Restaurant in Ludlow on March 21st for his campaign kickoff event. 
Saunders Leads Delegation Effort to Secure Project Labor Agreement for $350M Water Treatment Plant
Representative Saunders joined colleagues of the Western Massachusetts delegation in an effort to secure local jobs for the West Parish Water Treatment Plant construction project. 

The West Parish Water Treatment Plant is one of the largest water infrastructure projects in Western Massachusetts' recent history with an estimated cost of $350 million.

With the letter of support from Representative Saunders and colleagues, the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission elected to authorize a union-backed project labor agreement for the facility. 

Now, let's get to work!
Pine Valley Awarded Funding for Water Quality Project
On March 26th the The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced an investment of more than $1.4 billion in low-interest-rate loans and grants to fund water quality and infrastructure improvement projects across the state.

Pine Valley received an award of $6,014,514 for the replacement of the community's aging water distribution pipes. 

"Ensuring the residents of Pine Valley have access to clean, reliable drinking water has been a priority since I took office last year. I am thrilled to know that this project will be financed through the state's clean water trust and the residents of Pine Valley will no longer have to worry about their drinking water," said State Representative Aaron Saunders about the award.

If you are interested in learning more about the projects supported by this funding or the State Revolving Fund, please see this Press Release from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.
Saunders Weighs in on Governor Healey's Council-Approved Cannabis Conviction Pardon Plan
On March 13th Governor Healey unveiled her plans to issue pardons for Commonwealth residents who have been convicted of misdemeanor marijuana possession. The Governor's Council approved the proposal on April 3rd.

In an interview with WAMC, Representative Saunders shared his thoughts on the Governor's initiative. "It's an important step for equity," said the Representative,"it's an important step for an awful lot of folks who have had these types of convictions follow them around, as they try to gain employment, as they try to gain housing security."

If interested in reading more, please see Western Mass. Lawmakers on state cannabis committee weigh in on Healey pardon proposal from WAMC Northeast Public Radio.
State House Student Government Day 2024
Many thanks to the students who participated in the State House's annual student government day! 

Every year, a select number of high school students from across the Commonwealth travel to Boston for a day of experiential learning with the state legislature. Students hear from members of the legislature and participate in both a mock committee hearing and formal session as either a State Representative or Senator.

It is important to foster civic knowledge and responsibility in each new generation. The participating students have set a great example for their peers through their active interest and engagement with state government.
Saunders Shows Support for Vietnam Veterans

On April 14th Representative Saunders joined the distinguished members of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 111 at ELKS Ludlow Lodge #2448 to celebrate the Chapter's 40th anniversary.

It is vital that we never forget the sacrifices that veterans of the Vietnam War made for our nation.
Play Ball!

Saunders Joins the Belchertown Little League for Start of 2024 Season
Representative Saunders grabbed a bat and dusted off his catcher's mitt before he joined the Belchertown Little League for their 2024 season kickoff clinic event with the Belchertown High School Baseball Team.

Watch out Red Sox! We may have the first ever politician turned pro baseball player in the State House.
Saunders attends Flag Raising in Honor of Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month
Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, free from any form of abuse or neglect. 

On April 5th, Representative Saunders joined the Children's Advocacy Center of Hampshire County, the Belchertown Police Department, and local leaders in recognition of April as Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month.

Please use this month to further educate yourself and others about the signs of abuse, and to support organizations and initiatives dedicated to preventing child abuse and providing assistance to victims and families.
Quabbin Fishermen's Associations Hosts Annual Banquet 
Representative Saunders joined colleagues Representative Smola and Senator Oliveira at the Quabbin Fishermen's Association's annual banquet in March.

In a statement shared by the Representative online, he said, "Massachusetts made a promise to provide robust public access to the Quabbin Reservoir. It is our goal to ensure this continues and the Quabbin is preserved as a hub for fishermen in Western Massachusetts."
Saunders Addresses Farm Bureau on Legislative Priorities
In March, Representative Saunders joined members of the Hampshire, Hampden, and Franklin County Farm Bureaus to hear the concerns and discuss the legislative priorities of local farmers.

Agriculture is vital to the rural economy of communities across Western Massachusetts. It is the legislature's responsibility to ensure that farmers across the Commonwealth are supported in the realms of workforce development, implementation of renewable energy sources, agrotourism, and beyond. 
Citation Presentations
On April 23rd, Ludlow resident Anthia Elliot received the Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance Advocate of the Year Award. Anthia is the Program Director for the Behavioral Health Network's Domestic Violence & P.A.T.C.H. Services.

It was an honor to provide Anthia with a citation to further recognize her advocacy and dedication to victim services. 
On March 4th Representative Saunders and Senator Oliveira joined the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention to present Karen Carreira of Ludlow with the MCSP Leadership in Suicide Prevention Award. Karen, thank you for your remarkable advocacy and dedication to suicide prevention in the Commonwealth and congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.
Thanks to ARPA funding, the Ludlow Community Center/Randall Boys & Girls Club celebrated the addition of brand new basketball and pickleball courts to their facility. 

Get ready to slam dunk and pickleball smash your way to fun and fitness!
The 7th Hampden district has welcomed another small business to the community!

Representative Saunders and Senator Oliveira attended the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for Salon LiVy, a nail salon, in Ludlow last weekend. 
Contact Information
State Representative Saunders: aaron@aaronsaunders.org

District Office Phone: (413) 252-9775