State House Spotlight: Bills, bills, bills

BOSTON (WWLP) – Between three major bill signings and a celebration, it was a week of festivities at the State House.

On Monday, a signing ceremony for a bill that protects victims of sexual assault by a medical professional. One District Attorney says this change is common sense.

“Once that trust is violated and then they came to us, who they have a right to trust as well, we said sorry, we’re not able to help you. And this bill changes this,” said Marian Ryan, the Middlesex County District Attorney.

On Tuesday, the governor signed a bill that help Massachusetts compete for federal funding.

“We viewed it as our responsibility and our opportunity to go out there and maximize Massachusetts’ ability to bring home these dollars working with partners,” said Governor Healey.

On Wednesday, the governor joined her council of Latino Empowerment to celebrate Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month with food, art, music, and even a capoeira demonstration.

On Thursday, a long-time House priority bill was signed that deals with reforming the long-term care industry. A western Massachusetts advocate told 22News that his part of the state played a major role in this reform.

“I think one of the things, just for a long, long time, western Mass. has always been the center for major disability reform,” said Chris Palames, the founder of the Stavros Center for Independent Living in Amherst. “Western Mass. all the way!”

This flurry of activity is coming before legislators buckle down on campaigning for the November elections.

Local News Headlines

Chicopee Chamber of Commerce hosts workforce development listening session

Massachusetts county ranks among best destination for fall foliage

Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo dies at 58

Gunshot victim found in Springfield’s North End neighborhood

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.