Why We Wear Denim: Standing Together for Change

Denim Day is a powerful reminder that what someone wears is never an excuse for assault. This day of action and awareness challenges harmful myths, supports survivors, and calls for continued education and advocacy.  

Let us all work together to build a culture of respect, consent, and safety for everyone. 

Hamilton and Wenham Special Education Fundraiser

A heartfelt thank you to Five Sons Pizza, the Hamilton Fire Department, the Hamilton MA Police Dept, the @wenham_fire Department, the Wenham Police Department and to everyone who took part in the 4th annual Autism Awareness Fundraiser last night!

It was an honor to join Hamilton and Wenham first responders in offering free deliveries with every order—each one personally delivered by members of the Hamilton and Wenham Police and Fire Departments and myself.

With 20% of Tuesday’s sales going to the Hamilton and Wenham Special Education Department, this event was a powerful reminder of how our community supports meaningful causes—when we come together.

A truly fitting way to close out Autism Awareness Month—with generosity, teamwork, and heart.

North Andover Fire Department Badge Pinning Ceremony

On Monday, April 14th, I had the honor of celebrating several members of the North Andover Fire Department during their Badge Pinning Ceremony - recognizing the dedication required to protect our community.

Please join me in congratulating:

Promotion to Fire Lieutenant: Christopher Dufresne
Promotion to Fire Lieutenant: Neil Patnaude

Receiving their Badges:

Firefighter/EMT John Brouder, Firefighter/EMT Jonathan Dufresne, and Firefighter/EMT James Nussbaum

Thank you for your service and commitment to keeping the North Andover community safe.

Welcome aboard to our new members and congratulations to our new Lieutenants!

Tarr Announces FY'25 SAFE and Senior SAFE Grant Awards

I am happy to share that a number of local fire departments have been selected to receive FY'25 Student Awareness and Fire Education (SAFE) and Senior SAFE programs grant awards.

 
These funds will be used to promote fire and life safety education for children and older adults, who are most vulnerable to burns, injury and death stemming from fires and related hazards.

TARR IN THE NEWS 4.18.25

TARR IN THE NEWS | 4.18.25

'It gives people another option': Legislators seek to turn empty lots into community gardens: Legislators seek to turn urban eyesores into community gardens'

Worcester Telegram & Gazette article by Kinga Borondy

"“We want to encourage as many people as possible to grow their own food,” Tarr said.

State support for smaller farms and gardens, Tarr said, is key to ensuring that people don’t lose their understanding of where food comes from. He fears that without that connection, farmers could lose support for their work. Community farms remind residents of their connections to their food.

“When you are growing food in your backyard, it really hits home,” Tarr said."

Read the full article here:
https://www.telegram.com/.../legislators.../83140264007/

Thank You to the Generous Gardeners Team

A heartfelt thank you to Susan Kelly, Antonietta Calabrese, and the entire Generous Gardeners team for their incredible work getting our Gloucester Boulevard ready for the spring season!

Your dedication and care keep our flowerbeds vibrant and beautiful, bringing joy to residents and visitors alike.

We’re grateful for all you do to make Gloucester bloom!

Tarr Announces Round 2 of the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Awards Support Support Local Fire Departments

I am happy to share that a number of local fire departments have been selected to receive a second round of Firefighter Safety Equipment grants. These funds will be used to purchase a variety of equipment that will help protect responders and the public. The long-term health of our firefighters will be enhanced, a fact that we can all celebrate.

I am deeply thankful for their efforts on our behalf every single day.

Massachusetts Announces Flexibilities for Clean Trucks Requirements

Please see press release shared with our office from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection RE: enforcement discretion regarding the Advanced Clean Truck rule announced by MassDEP.

The enforcement discretion will provide relief to vehicle manufacturers that cannot meet the Advanced Clean Truck sales requirements for Model Years 2025 and 2026.

Please visit Massachusetts Low Emission Vehicle Program page for additional details: https://www.mass.gov/.../massachusetts-low-emission...

Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Legislative Dinner

Last week, I had the pleasure of joining a distinguished panel at the Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Legislative Dinner held at the Mission Oak Grill.

I had the opportunity to share a brief update on the state of the Commonwealth and highlight key legislation and budget priorities myself and my colleagues are working on to support our region — from bolstering small businesses to investing in local infrastructure and workforce development.

A special thank you to the Chamber for hosting this important event, and to my fellow panelists — State Representative Dawne Shand, State Representative Adrianne Ramos, State Representative Kristin Kassner, Newburyport Mayor Sean Reardon, Topsfield Town Administrator Kevin Harutunian, and Executive Director of the North of Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau Nancy Gardella — for their continued commitment to our local business community.

Thank you also to special guest - award-winning news anchor and longtime investigative consumer reporter - Susan Wornick, whose insight and energy added so much to the evening.

Legislative Mixer Hosted by the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce

I had the pleasure of sharing remarks at the Legislative Mixer hosted by the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce at the Carousel Pavilion in Salisbury.

It was a great opportunity to connect with community members and local business leaders to discuss some of the important issues facing Salisbury.

We covered several key topics, including business-related legislation, the state budget process, and the recent completion of the long-anticipated Salisbury Beach Nourishment Project — an effort I’ve been proud to support for years to protect and preserve our shoreline.

A big thank you to Selectman Mike Colburn for joining in sharing remarks, and thank you especially to the Salisbury Chamber for organizing this important event.

Your work is critical to the strength and success of our district’s economy.

Learn more about the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce here: https://www.salisburychamber.com/

To watch my full remarks, visit the below link shared on SCTVMC

 
https://sctvmc.float-zone.com/CablecastPubl.../show/11552...

TARR IN THE NEWS 4.14.25

TARR IN THE NEWS | 4.14.25

'Massachusetts launches Commercial Fisheries Commission'

National Fisherman Article by Carli Stewart

Excerpt below: 

"Massachusetts legislators played a critical role in launching the CFC. Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), who sponsored the bill that established the commission, said the goal was to give the industry “a vehicle to engage state government more directly in the development, implementation and coordination of policies and strategies, and to give them a stronger voice."

To read the full article, visit: https://www.nationalfisherman.com/massachusetts-launches...

Masconomet Regional School Committee Meeting

On April 9th, I had the opportunity to share legislative updates from the State House at the Masconomet Regional School Committee meeting with my House colleagues Kristin Kassner State Representative 2nd Essex District and Sally Kerans for State Representative.

Among other topics of interest, we listened to the School Committees budget concerns and shared our continued efforts in the Legislature to revise the Chapter 70 formula and to secure additional funding for regional school transportation and for special education—critical needs for our communities.

Meetings like this one are essential for understanding the challenges facing our local school districts and for ensuring that the work being done at the State House is aligned with our communities' needs.

Thank you to the Masconomet Regional School Committee for the invitation to attend and for their continued partnership in strengthening education for all students not only in their district, but throughout the Commonwealth.

My remarks begin at the 1hr:17min mark at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/live/yM6AjfeDPMA...

Housing Workshops Being Held in Gloucester

The Gloucester Housing Authority is casting a wider net to insure all in the community know about its valuable services.

Some programs are free, some require payment, all are designed to help with home ownership needs.

The Gloucester Housing Authority,, 259 Washington St., can also assist with affordable housing opportunities, rental guidance, and foreclosure issues. Call 978-281-4770, ext. 110, ask for the homeownership coordinator for more information.

It is hosting the following housing workshops:

Budget & Credit Workshop, Tuesday, April 15, 6 to 8 p.m.

First Time Home Buyer Weekend Workshops, May 3-4, Aug. 9-10, or Nov. 1 & 2, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. A certificate is issued upon completion granting access to Mass Housing & Mass Housing Partnership programs. Up to $30,000 in mortgage assistance, lower than average interest rates, help with closing costs & more. Via Zoom; $75 per household.

Introduction to Homeownership, Tuesday, June 3, 6 to 8 p.m. Free, on Zoom.

Frameworks program: Self -paced on-line program for first-time homebuyers. On completion receive a certificate granting access to Mass Housing & Mass Housing Partnership program loans. Up to $30,000 in mortgage assistance, lower interest rates, help with closing costs & more. On-line workshop is $75 and $25 for certificate.

Introduction to Homeownership, Tuesday, Oct, 7, 6 to 8 pm. Free, on Zoom

To learn more, visit: https://www.ghama.com/homeOwnership.aspx

Manchester-by-the-Sea Public Library Meeting

I had the opportunity to meet with Ric Rogers, Treasurer of the Library Board of Trustees and Cynthia Gemmell, Director of the Manchester-by-the-Sea Public Library to discuss the future of the Manchester-by-the-Sea Public Library.

While it's disappointing that the library was not selected to receive the Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program grant this round, I was inspired by their dedication and determination to move forward. We had a productive conversation about future funding and grant opportunities.

Despite the challenges, it's clear that the vision for an innovative, sustainable library that honors the character of the historic building is alive and well.

I commend the team for continuing to plan for the future and for engaging the community as they launch a new five-year strategic plan and prepare for a capital campaign.

Manchester deserves a library that meets the needs of today and tomorrow.

 
Stay tuned and get involved—your voice matters in shaping this important community space 
https://www.manchesterpl.org/future-plans-at-the-library/

Seacoast Nursing Home Visit

David Cox, a resident of the Seacoast Nursing Home located in Gloucester, recently invited me over for a visit to present me with a special gift of a framed photo of me from many years ago at St. Peter’s Fiesta.

Grateful to David for this thoughtful and meaningful gesture I will fondly cherish for years to come.

Merrimack Valley Planning Commission to Release RFP for Lower Merrimack River Quality Projects

Lower Merrimack River Region to address water quality concerns with Earmark Funding administered by the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission.

HAVERHILL, MA – The Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC) is excited to announce the upcoming release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) to support projects aimed at improving water quality in the Lower Merrimack River. This funding opportunity will focus on addressing pollution caused by combined sewage overflow (CSO) events and non-point source runoff, two major contributors to water contamination in the region.

Senator Bruce Tarr sponsored this opportunity through Earmark Funding from Chapter 102 in the Acts of 2021. “Through regional and interstate collaboration, we have been making steady progress to improve the water quality of the Merrimack River and reduce the impacts of CSO’s,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester). “I am glad we were able to secure earmarked funding for that progress to continue, and now, armed with these funds, the MVPC is moving forward to put that money to work by seeking out and investing in new, innovative proposals to make a difference for the river.”

To read the full press release by the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, visit: https://mvpc.org/2025/03/10/mvpc-cso-grant-press-release/

New England Organ Donation Event in the Senate Reading Room

This past Tuesday I shared remarks at the New England Organ Donation event in the Senate Reading Room in recognition of #DonateLifeMonth.

Established by Donate Life America in 2003, this month-long observance raises awareness about the power of organ, eye, and tissue donation. It’s a time to honor those who have saved lives through the gift 

of donation and to encourage others to register as donors.

This year’s theme, “Let Life Sing,” reminds us that birds—symbols of renewal and hope—reflect the spirit of giving and the promise of second chances.

I was proud to stand alongside my colleague Senator Adam Gomez, a kidney recipient himself, DPH Commissioner Dr. Robert Goldstein, NEDS President and CEO Alex Glazier, fellow legislators, volunteers, donor families, and recipients—like former Wenham Fire Chief Bob Blanchard, who received a life-saving heart transplant on 9/11/23 and continues to advocate for donor services.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the State House to support this life-saving cause. Together, we can bring hope to the more than 100,000 individuals waiting for a second chance.

Register today to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor, and help save and heal lives:

https://neds.org
https://donatelife.net

MSPCA-Angell Animal Advocacy Training at Nevins Farm

This past Tuesday, I had the pleasure of sharing remarks at the MSPCA-Angell Animal Advocacy Training held at Nevins Farm.

It was great to speak with such a dedicated group of advocates about the importance of reaching out to their legislators and staying engaged in the legislative process to protect animals here in Massachusetts.

Thank you to Bethany DeZolt and the entire MSPCA team for hosting such an impactful event and for your continued work in promoting compassion and advocacy for our four-legged friends.

Looking forward to continuing our work together to support policies that make a difference for animals in Massachusetts!

Learn how you can help here: https://www.mspca.org/get-involved/advocate-for-animals/

Rockport, Hamilton, and Wenham Town Meetings

Last weekend, I had the chance to attend several town meetings, including the Rockport, Hamilton, and Wenham Town Meetings, along with the Ipswich Bean Counting.

It’s always inspiring to witness so many engaged residents actively participating in the democratic process and helping to shape the decisions that matter most to their communities—thank you to all who took the time to be part of it!

Happy Passover

I would like to wish all of my Jewish friends and constituents a wonderful and joyous Passover that is shared with friends, family, and loved ones in celebrating the true spirit of the holiday and that your time together is filled with peace and happiness.

Chag Pesach Sameach!

Ipswich Council on Aging at the State House

It was a pleasure welcoming members of the Ipswich Council on Aging at the State House on Tuesday this week.

 
They enjoyed themselves by touring the State House, exploring the House and Senate chambers, the Governor’s office, and learning about the rich history and artwork throughout the building.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to host such an engaged and enthusiastic group, and I look forward to welcoming them back soon.

Ipswich Shellfish Advisory Board Meeting

On Tuesday, April 8th, I was able to meet with town and state officials at the Ipswich Shellfish Advisory Board’s monthly meeting at the Ipswich Town Hall to have an important discussion of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program and guidance on the future of the clam flats.

The National Shellfish Sanitation Program is the federal and state cooperative program charged with the sanitary control of shellfish products.

This local advisory board plays a critical role in the conservation and regulation of the town’s shell fishing flats and in fostering open dialogue between the town’s government and its shell fishing community.

The fishing industry in our district and the broader Commonwealth is a vital aspect of our economy and culture, which is why I have always remained an advocate for the state’s fishing fleet.

This meeting was an important opportunity to discuss our continued efforts in protecting our fishing industry's livelihood.

My remarks to the Advisory Board begin at the 20:45 mark at the following link:

http://71.174.52.234/CablecastPublicSite/show/14725?site=2

Massachusetts’ Commercial Fishing Industry News

Big News for Massachusetts’ Commercial Fishing Industry

This Tuesday, April 8th, I participated in the inaugural meeting of the Massachusetts Commercial Fisheries Commission (CFC).

Having authored and secured the passage of the legislative language to create the commission in the bill 'An Act Driving Clean Energy and Offshore Wind (Acts of 2022, Chapter 179, Section 79), I was pleased to see this important resource for the commercial fishing industry come to fruition.

Thanks to Senator Mark Montigny (D-New Bedford) and Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante (D-Gloucester) for their support in achieving this important goal, marking a major step forward for one of our Commonwealth’s most historic and vital industries.

The CFC brings together fishing industry leaders and state officials to collaborate on key issues like sustainability, infrastructure, offshore wind development, and long-term viability for our ports and working waterfronts. I look forward to the continued, important work of the CFC and thank all who helped bring it to life.

For a link to the full press release from the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries:
https://www.mass.gov/.../massachusetts-commercial...

Additional Resources:
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/commercial-fisheries-commission
https://malegislature.gov/.../Sessio.../Acts/2022/Chapter179

Watershed Associations Tackling Environmental Resilience Coalitions Lobby Day

Last week, the Watershed Associations Tackling Environmental Resilience (WATER) Coalitions hosted a lobby day at the State House bringing together watershed organizations from across Massachusetts to advocate for vital environmental priorities—including the drought preparedness bill and funding for MVP / restoration programs.

 
Led by the Ipswich River Watershed Association (IRWA) and the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA), this effort highlighted the importance of building environmental resilience and protecting our natural resources - now and in the future.

I was honored to share remarks during the event and speak to the impact these issues have on the communities in our district.

Following their advocacy event, I invited the IRWA team to attend a special tour of the Senate Chamber—it is always a pleasure connecting with dedicated, passionate advocates who are working hard to make Massachusetts more resilient for generations to come.

George Demeter Day and Parliamentary Law Month

Today, we honored George Demeter Day and Parliamentary Law Month in the Senate Chamber — recognizing a remarkable Greek-American leader whose impact continues to shape civic life across Massachusetts.

We presented official proclamations from Governor Maura Healey marking the importance of this day in remembrance of his contributions and his legacy.

We also recognized the following individuals and organizations that keep the spirit of George Demeter's mission alive and well today:

Peter Senopolous

    - Organizer and Past President of the Hellenic Bar Association
    - Order of AHEPA
    - And the George Demeter Unit of the National Association of Parliamentarians

Organizations:
    - George Demeter Unit of the National Association of Parliamentarians (President Peter Klapes)
    - Order of the AHEPA Boston Chapter (President Chris Tsiotos)
    - Past Supreme President of the Sons of Pericles (President Dimitrius Vidalis)
    - Consular General of Greece Symeon Tegos
    - President of the Boston Chapter of the Daughters of Penelope (Mary Kazis)

George Demeter, the first Greek-American to serve in the Massachusetts Legislature, was not only a trailblazer, but also a nationally respected parliamentarian. His work, 'Demeter’s Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure,' remains a cornerstone for municipalities and organizations navigating decision-making today.

With Marathon Monday just around the corner, it’s also worth noting that Demeter helped introduce the tradition of crowning the Boston Marathon winner with a laurel wreath—a nod to the race’s ancient Greek roots.

TARR IN THE NEWS 4.9.25

TARR IN THE NEWS | 4.9.25

'State and local officials working to reopen Ipswich clam flats'

The Local News Article by Amy Palmer

"It has been estimated that commercial clammers who dig those winter flats could be losing as much as $60,000 per year as a result of the closures.

In response, town officials, state legislators, and members of the Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Marine Fisheries have been working on solutions for the shellfish community. Together, they have been trying to find new ways to measure water quality and the impact of treatment plant output in the hopes of reopening closed beds, according to Sen. Bruce Tarr.

“To create a different model is going to be a very much out-of-the-box exercise, but it’s one that we are all committed to,” Tarr told Ipswich officials on Saturday.

The group includes Tarr, Rep. Kristin Kassner, town manager Stephen Crane, select board chair Linda Alexson, and Congressman Seth Moulton.

The team is hoping to present its plans to the National Shellfish Sanitation Program at its conference this August, Tarr said. The conference only takes place once every two years, he added.

“A compelling case has been made, and we’re trying to take that and change the direction of this situation,” Tarr said."

Meeting with Suffolk University Master of Public Administration and Law Students

It was a pleasure to meet with Suffolk University Master of Public Administration and Law students during their recent visit last week to the State House for their State Public Policy Seminar Course.

Guided by Assistant Professor Doug Gutro of the Moakley Center for Public Management at Suffolk University, these graduate students are preparing to lead the next generation of public service.

We had an engaging discussion about my role as Senate Minority Leader, how we work across the aisle and with the Governor to shape policy, and the priorities driving our legislative work in the new session.

As a Suffolk University alumnus, I was honored to participate in meeting with students again this year and look forward to continuing this important dialogue.

Creative Community Group Paintings Displayed Outside of the Senate Chamber

I have the distinct honor of announcing that 17 paintings produced by artists in our district are now proudly displayed in the hallway outside of the Senate Chamber.

The featured artists - Nancy LeGendre, Patricia McCarthy, Heidi Caswell Zander and Dale Sherman Blodget - are members of the Creative Community Group, a collective fostering opportunities to create and experience art on Cape Ann, the North Shore, and the broader Commonwealth.

Advancing imagery in the Senate that represents the diverse contributions of past, present and future constituents is - and always has been - important to me, which is why I am honored to be serving on the Senate Art Committee this session.

It’s a privilege to have works highlighting our district’s unique creative spirit and culture in the State House, just down the hall from my office.

There will be a reception at the State House to celebrate the artists' exhibit on Thursday, May 29th from 3-5PM.

If you find yourself in Boston in the next few months, please stop by to see these impressive artworks by local artists.

Learn more about the the Creative Community Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/260404512118481/members

Learn more about the work of the Senate Art Committee: https://malegislature.gov/PressRoom/Detail...

North Shore Superintendents' Roundtable Legislative Luncheon

Recently, I participated in a thoughtful and productive conversation with my colleagues and school district officials from across our region at the North Shore Superintendents' Roundtable Legislative Luncheon at Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School.

We discussed major reforms to the Chapter 70 funding formula, including my commitment to providing fair and increased funding for our local school districts, along with increasing state support for school transportation and special education.

Thank you to the superintendents and school officials for hosting a constructive and engaging discussion on the priorities of our K-12 school districts.

Constituent Services Office Hours

Upcoming Constituent Services Office Hours for next week [April Week 3]

Have a question or concern? Meet with a member of my staff in person.

Official points of contact so that my office can assist you:

Call: (617)-722-1600

Email: Bruce.Tarr@MaSenate.gov

Town of West Newbury
West Newbury Council on Aging
Town of Middleton
Middleton Council on Aging
Town of Boxford
Boxford Ma Council on Aging
Town of Groveland, MA
Groveland Council on Aging
Town of Salisbury
Salisbury Council on Aging
City of Newburyport
Friends of the Newburyport Council on Aging
Town of Ipswich MA
Ipswich Council on Aging
Town of Essex – Government
Essex Council on Aging
Town of Newbury, MA
Newbury Council On Aging
Friends of the Newbury Council on Aging

Meeting with Mark Bodanza at the State House

Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting Mark Bodanza at the State House, author of 14 books and the City of Leominister Council President.

He presented me with two autographed books titled “Resolve & Rescue: The True Story of Frances Drake and the Antislavery Movement” and “She Took a Stand: The Story of Frances Drake and the Underground Railroad.”

Explore more of his books here: https://markbodanza.com

The Open Door Awarded the 2025 Lauren Arms Ledwith Award

The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance - DTA has honored Gloucester-based nonprofit The Open Door with the 2025 Lauren Arms Ledwith Award!

This award recognizes one outstanding organization each year for its unyielding commitment to fighting hunger and supporting DTA clients as a SNAP Outreach partner.

This year, The Open Door was chosen for its resourceful and innovative efforts supporting thousands in Cape Ann and throughout Essex County.

Here is a quote I recently shared in the Gloucester Daily Times' article about their winning of this prestigious award:

“Since its inception, The Open Door has been a nimble and responsive organization that works to understand the food insecurity needs of the community and responds to those needs in resourceful and innovative ways,” state Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, said. “Not only does The Open Door lead local efforts to combat food insecurity, it also builds resilience and strength for our entire region by maximizing opportunities for partnership and collaboration.”

Read the full article here: https://www.gloucestertimes.com/.../article_d45091a4-8ca7...

Congratulations to The Open Door for this well-deserved honor!

Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Awareness Week

This week, we recognize Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Awareness Week — a time to support the incredible strength and resilience of young people facing cancer between the ages of 15 and 24.

Far too often, these patients fall into a gap in care, facing unique medical and emotional challenges. Let’s raise awareness, promote research, and advocate for the specialized care they deserve.

Together, we can make a difference.

Reid's Ride / Reid R. Sacco Adolescent & Young Adult -AYA- Cancer Alliance

2025 Regional Transit Authority Legislative Luncheon

This past Tuesday our Legislative Aide and District Liaison, Kristin McDonald, attended the 2025 Regional Transit Authority Legislative Luncheon at the Boston Omni Parker House.

This important event brought together leaders from across the Commonwealth to highlight the impact of FY2025 funding on regional transit systems, including key investments in state of good repair, service goals, and workforce development.

With ridership recovery and future service needs on the agenda, it was a great opportunity to hear directly from both legislative and transportation officials about the path forward for public transit in our region and beyond.

Grateful to Cape Ann Transportation Authority, Merrimack Valley Transit and all the RTAs for their dedication to keeping our communities connected and moving forward.

Gloucester Fire Headquarters

Last week, I spent time at Gloucester Fire Headquarters with the members of Local 762.

I have always valued a strong partnership with the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts (PFFM) and remain committed to supporting the critical work our firefighters do every day to keep our communities safe.

We had important discussions on several key issues, including:

Strengthening the PFAS Bill—which I was proud to fight for—and finding ways to build on its protections.

Expanding the cancer presumption look-back period from 5 to 10 years, to better support those impacted by job-related illness.

Addressing MBTA 3A and impacts on fire safety and the need for increased staffing.

Finding Onsite Academy.

These conversations are crucial.

Our firefighters need our full support—and I will keep working to ensure they have the resources, protections, and recognition they deserve.

Gold Star Spouses Day

Today, on Gold Star Spouses Day, we honor and remember the spouses of our fallen heroes—those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

Gold Star spouses carry a profound legacy of love, resilience, and patriotism. We are forever grateful for their strength and the sacrifices made by their families.

Their courage reminds us of the true cost of freedom, and we must never forget it.

To all Gold Star spouses: we see you, we support you, and we thank you.

Constituent Services Office Hours

Upcoming Constituent Services Office Hours for the upcoming week [April Week 2] 

Have a question or concern? Meet with a member of my staff in person.

Official points of contact so that my office can assist you:

Call: (617)-722-1600

Email: Bruce.Tarr@MaSenate.gov

Rowley Council on Aging
Town of Hamilton
Hamilton Council on Aging and Senior Center
Town of Wenham, Massachusetts
Wenham Council on Aging
Topsfield
City of Gloucester, MA
Rockport, MA Town Administrator
Town of Manchester by the Sea
North Reading Transcript
North Andover, MA Town Offices
North Andover Senior Center

Gloucester Police Officers Wear the “Understand Love” Patch

Gloucester police officers are wearing a special blue patch this month—it features a colorful hot air balloon soaring with the words “Understand Love.”

This meaningful design honors Autism Acceptance Month and carries a powerful message of compassion and inclusion.

What makes it even more special is that the artwork was created by Helen Larabell, a creative and thoughtful fifth grader from Plum Cove School located in Gloucester.

Chosen from over 300 entries in a student art contest, Helen’s design stood out for its uplifting message and vibrant depiction of unity and support for the autism community.

I was honored to join Helen, her family, Gloucester police officers Chris Liacos, Dave D’Angelo, and Brendan Chipperini, along with the dedicated team from Northeast Arc, to celebrate Helen’s achievement.

Learn more about how we celebrated Helen’s achievement in this Gloucester Daily Times article by Ethan Forman: https://www.gloucestertimes.com/.../article_22c62272-2cf6...

Excerpt of article below 

“This is a great way to draw attention to autism and the need to support folks with autism and do education around it,” I said, “and it’s really great that Helen has great artistic talent—and she shared it to help other people.”

Congratulations, Helen—and thank you for helping our community embrace understanding and support through your art.

Autism Acceptance patches from the Gloucester Police Department (Official) are available for purchase for $10 each, plus $3 for shipping. You can order via the Venmo app (@GPD-donations) or by scanning the provided QR code. Be sure to include your shipping address—proceeds go directly to support the work of Northeast Arc.

Opening of the Magnolia Library and Community Center and “Jump Into Spring Art Show”

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to attend the Opening Night Reception of the Magnolia Library and Community Center and Cape Ann Plein Air “Jump Into Spring Art Show” — an inspiring collection of works by talented local artists.

The exhibition celebrates the vibrant spirit of our community while supporting the important mission of the Magnolia Library.

I encourage everyone to stop by and experience these plein air artworks before the show closes tomorrow, Saturday, April 5.

Details:

Open Daily: 2pm – 7pm

Location: Magnolia Library and Community Center, 1 Lexington Ave, Magnolia

Sales Benefit: Magnolia Library

Don’t miss this opportunity to support local art and a great cause!

O’Maley Innovation Middle School Science Gloucester Education Foundation Visit

Last week, our Director of Communications, Jessica Margiotta, had the opportunity to tour the O’Maley Innovation Middle School Science Gloucester Education Foundation — a non-profit who provides funding for this incredible resource for Gloucester Middle School students.

 
O'Maley is one of only 4 Innovation Middle Schools in the entire state.

On this visit, the group explored Aquaponics, catapult-building, 3D printing, the slime wet lab and more!

Thank you to Amy Donnelly and Dave Brown for partnering with us on legislation to continue to fund innovative programs like this and for hosting us, to all of the students who shared their projects and insights, and to local officials and school committee members who added valuable insight to the conversation.

To learn more about this important legislation, visit: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S457

Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce Casino Night

Last week, I had a great time at the Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce Casino Night at The Slip Lounge in Salisbury.

This event—formerly known as the Chamber Pot—brought together local business leaders, community members, and friends for a night of fun, networking, and support for our local economy.

It’s always great to connect with the hardworking entrepreneurs and business owners who help make our region thrive. 

Essex County Farm Bureau Legislative Breakfast

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the Essex County Farm Bureau Legislative Breakfast at Coolidge Hall in the Topsfield Fairgrounds. 

This annual event is a vital opportunity for farmers, legislators, and community members to come together and discuss the key agricultural issues facing Essex County and Massachusetts as a whole.

Agriculture is a cornerstone of our local economy and a way of life for so many in our region. I appreciate the chance to hear directly from farmers about their challenges and opportunities, and I remain committed to advocating for policies that support our farming community.

Tarr In the News 4.3.25

TARR IN THE NEWS | 4.3.25

'Lawmakers lead state budget discussion before school board'

Gloucester Daily Times Article by Ethan Forman

"State Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, and state Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante, D-Gloucester, led a wide-ranging discussion last week for the School Committee on the development of the fiscal 2026 state budget as it relates to education funding locally.

Gov. Maura Healey has offered her budget, the House will debate its spending plan in April and the Senate will take it up in May, Tarr said.

Rowley Veterans Luncheon

On March 25th, the Rowley Veterans’ Luncheon brought together local veterans for a special afternoon of recognition, gratitude, and camaraderie.

This wonderful event was made possible by the Eastern Essex District Department of Veterans’ Services, Rowley Council on Aging, and the Town of Rowley Veterans’ Committee—thank you for your dedication to supporting those who have served our nation.

It was an honor to be part of this gathering by sharing remarks and to show appreciation for the sacrifices made by our veterans.

TARR IN THE NEWS 4.2.25

TARR IN THE NEWS | 4.2.25

‘Bipartisan group tackles effluent discharges in Merrimack River’

The Sun News Article by Melanie Gilbert

“Combined, Lowell and Manchester’s CSO investments represent a major step forward in improving the water quality of the Merrimack River, which has been a priority of Tarr. The minority leader of the Senate represents the downstream communities of the 1st Essex and Middlesex District, many of which rely on the Merrimack watershed for clean drinking water, recreation, tourism and economies like fishing.

The river, which begins in New Hampshire, empties into the Gulf of Maine between the city of Newburyport and the town of Salisbury, both of which are in Tarr’s district.

“Through collaboration and renewed focus, we have been making steady progress toward improving the water quality of the Merrimack River and the health of its watershed,” Tarr said.”

Read the full article here:
https://www.lowellsun.com/.../bipartisan-group-tackles.../

Start Believing day

Today is Start by Believing Day. 

This day highlights the ways we respond to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and child sexual abuse.

Start by Believing is a global campaign led by End Violence Against Women International (EVAWI) to break the cycle of silence and support survivors from the very first disclosure. 

Research shows that too often, survivors face doubt or blame, which discourages them from seeking justice and healing. 

Every response matters. Your response matters.

By committing to Start by Believing, we can create a culture where survivors feel heard, supported, and empowered to come forward. 

Since 2011, thousands of people worldwide have made this commitment, and hundreds of communities have launched campaigns to spread this critical message.

It’s time to end the stigma. It’s time to Start by Believing.

Tarr In the News 3.30.25

TARR IN THE NEWS | 3.30.25

'Salisbury Beach sand nourishment project done'

Daily News of Newburyport Article by Matt Petry

"“The project deadline before we had to stop because of plover season and other considerations was March 31. So the project is done ahead of time at a cost of about $2.3 million,” Tarr said."