On Friday, March 22, 2019 the MBLLC shared testimony asking that the Joint Committee on Education keep ELL and Low-Income students top of mind as they consider proposals to updated the State's funding formula for K-12 education. The issue has remained a priority for the Caucus over the years, and remains the case this legislative session via MBLLC priority H586/S238 known as the PROMISE Act.
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On Wednesday, March 20, 2019 the MBLLC acknowledged and provided details regarding changes to the Department of Correction (DOC) prison visitation policy. The changes, which allow for more pre-approved visitors, are a result of ongoing discussions between the MBLLC and DOC addressing the Commonwealth’s prison system and encourage more family visits: an essential part of rehabilitation. The details of the updated policy, a first step in our continued efforts to work with the DOC for the betterment of Black and Latinx inmates, are included in the attached press release and DOC notice.
On Wednesday, March 20, 2019 the MBLLC met with Massachusetts State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump as she discussed her role ensuring accountability and efficiency in State government. The meeting was an important step in creating a collaborative relationship between the two offices.
The two groups discussed many topics including public workforce diversity, medically fragile children, and more. You can learn more about the Auditor and her work here. On Wednesday, March 7, 2019 the Mauricio Gastón Institute for Latino Community Development and Public Policy joined the MBLLC to release a report outlining the future for the Commonwealth's Latinx population. The institute noted that by 2035 the Latino population in Massachusetts will grow to over 1.15 million and represent nearly 15.3% of the population. The event was open to the public as legislators reflected on the report and shared insight as to what it means for their communities. Many of them noted that the findings would require new and creative approaches to assure that the Latinx community continues to thrive in Massachusetts. Caucus Chairman, Rep. Carlos González, noted, "We have to invest more resources in making sure that the Latino community is part of the workforce development, business development, and all the services that our public institutions offer. Our workforce has to be reflective of the population." Caucus members Rep. Nika Elugardo, Rep. Jon Santiago, Rep. Andy Vargas, Rep. Aaron Vega, all shared their input as well. They were also supported by their colleagues Rep. Stephan Hay, Rep. Gerry Cassidy, and Rep. Dylan Fernandes. To download the full report or review the abstract, visit the Gastón Institute's website here. |
AuthorMBLLC log posts are curated by the Caucus Executive Director. Archives
March 2021
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