Lily Jean Remembrance Shirt Campaign

Sharing at the request of Tiffany Leigh, who recently lost her fiancé, Freeman Short, in the tragic sinking of the F/V Lily Jean.

In the face of unimaginable loss, Tiffany has created a remembrance shirt campaign to honor Freeman and the crew, and to offer our community a way to come together in support and remembrance.

All proceeds will go directly to the Freeman Short family.

Our hearts remain with Tiffany, the Short family, and all those grieving this tragic loss. We are grateful for the strength it takes to create something that brings people together in the midst of such sorrow.

We will never forget those who go to sea and the sacrifices they make.

“They that go down to the sea in ships… these see the works of the Lord, and His wonders in the deep.” – Psalm 107:23-24

National Vietnam War Veterans Day

Honoring Our Vietnam Veterans

Today, on National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we pause to recognize the more than 6 million Americans who served during the Vietnam War, and we honor the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

We reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who answered the call to serve, and we remain forever grateful for their dedication to our nation.

To all Vietnam veterans—thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your unwavering commitment to our country.

We will never forget.

Commission on Ability Assistance appearance

Thank you to Chair Phyllis Jones of the Commission on Ability Assistance: North Andover MA for having myself and our Senior District Director Mary Ann Nay on their annual Legislative Update from Beacon Hill segment on North Andover CAM.

Watch the full episode on North Andover CAM.

Tarr in the News: Littles Lounge Play Café

TARR IN THE NEWS | 3.19.26

"Littles Lounge Play Café: New family hangout opens doors on High Street"

By Melanie Simard | The Local News

EXCERPT BELOW:

"The ceremony drew a significant crowd to the 146 High Street location — formerly the home of Conley's Drug Store. Guests included Sen. Bruce Tarr, Christina Eckert (representing Rep. Kristin Kassner's office), and leadership from the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce."

Woodman's of Essex recognition

Congratulations to Steve and Rhonda Woodman on being honored at the Massachusetts Governor's Conference on Travel & Tourism this week!

For more than 50 years, they have carried forward a remarkable 112-year family legacy—serving as dedicated stewards of a true culinary landmark and beloved community destination.

Well-deserved recognition for their commitment to excellence and service.

Save-the-date: Animal Rights Day

SAVE-THE-DATE: Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 9:30 AM - 3 PM

Massachusetts School of Law at Andover 18th Annual Animal Rights Day

FREE EVENT — details linked in original post.

Harborlight Homes legislative forum

Recently, I had the pleasure of joining alongside fellow legislators and local officials, including with my Legislative Director Ted Thomas, for Harborlight Homes' Legislative "Appy Hour"—a fun and engaging twist on the traditional legislative forum.

It was a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues and discuss the pressing need for affordable housing in our region, along with other important legislative priorities.

Thank you to Harborlight Homes for hosting this thoughtful conversation, and to all who participated. I look forward to continuing our work together to expand housing opportunities across our communities.

Tarr in the News: SJC opinion request

TARR IN THE NEWS | 3.12.26

"MA Senate Republicans call on Spilka to request SJC opinion on Legislative audit: Senate Republicans are asking Senate President Karen Spilka to formally request the high court to issue an advisory opinion on the voter-approved Legislative audit"

By Tim Dunn | Boston Herald

EXCERPT BELOW:

"The Caucus sent a letter to Spilka on Thursday, referencing 'the Senate's actions during the informal session of March 12,' related to two proposed ballot initiatives that are pending approval by the state Senate: H.5004– An Act to Improve Access to Public Records and H.5010– An Act to Reform and Regulate Legislative Stipends. The Senate voted during the informal session to send two orders to the SJC asking for advisory opinions on the ballot questions.

"Given these actions, we request that the Senate act similarly and consistently to place before the court questions relative to the law regarding the audit of the General Court, Chapter 250 of the Acts of 2024. This law, enacted overwhelmingly by the Commonwealth's voters, was also the subject of an initiative petition and affects the operations of the General Court. The voters who approved this law by a decisive margin deserve a clear and authoritative answer as to its constitutionality and the Legislature's corresponding obligations," the letter to Spilka reads.

"Seeking the opinion of the court is an important tool which has been used throughout the history of our state by the legislature to obtain guidance from the ultimate arbiter of constitutionality," it says.

Feast of San Giuseppe

To all of my Italian-American friends and constituents: Buona Festa di San Giuseppe!

Wishing you and your families a very happy and blessed feast of St. Joseph's!

Chief Ed Conley retirement

I had the honor of sharing remarks offering my congratulations at Chief Ed Conley's retirement party after more than three decades in law enforcement and seven years leading the Gloucester Police Department.

I want to thank Chief Conley for his steady leadership, his commitment to strengthening community trust, and his dedication to keeping Gloucester's community safe.

From guiding the department through the challenges of COVID-19 to advancing modernization and investing in community policing, his impact will be felt for years to come. I was pleased to mark this momentous occasion with the presentation of an official Senate citation.

Please join me in wishing him continued health, happiness, and all the best in his retirement.

Boston 25 News interview: DUA claims

Missed it LIVE? Watch our interview on Boston 25 News with Elly Morillo highlighting the outstanding work being done by our very own Director of Constituent Services Peter Cusenza RE: Navigating DUA Claim Processing Roadblocks

Tarr in the News: SNAP-EBT fraud oversight

TARR IN THE NEWS | 2.18.26

"Republican state Senators call for oversight hearing into SNAP-EBT fraud: The Senate Republican Caucus cited the Herald's article of a DTA whistleblower's claims as well as fraud uncovered by the state Auditor and U.S. Attorney's Office"

The Boston Globe | By Tim Dunn

EXCERPT BELOW:

"Senate Minority Leader Sen. Bruce Tarr (R-1st Essex & Middlesex) told the Herald in a statement that the theft and misuse of SNAP benefits calls for scrutiny and transparency through a committee hearing.

"We are making this request as a first step, to gain a full understanding of the scope and substance of these issues that can inform legislative action to protect the integrity of the program, taxpayer dollars, and the people who legitimately depend on these benefits," said Tarr.

Massachusetts–Québec friendship resolution

On Thursday, February 26, 2026, I joined my colleagues in the Senate in supporting a resolution recognizing the longstanding friendship, cooperation, and trade between the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Province of Québec.

Our regions share deep economic, educational, and cultural ties, and more than $3.36 billion in trade annually. From life sciences and advanced manufacturing to energy and agriculture, this partnership continues to support economic growth and opportunity on both sides of the border.

I also appreciated the opportunity to catch up with Mr. René Sylvestre, Québec Delegate for New England, and thank him for his work strengthening the relationship between Québec and New England.

Salem State University student visit

It was great to join my colleague State Senator Joan B. Lovely in welcoming students from Salem State University to the State House recently as they advocated for strong support for public higher education.

Their perspectives on the importance of accessible, high-quality state university education are an important part of the conversation as we work to strengthen opportunities for students across the Commonwealth.

Their visit came on the same day the Senate passed the BRIGHT Act, an effort aimed at supporting and investing in our public higher education system. I appreciate the students taking the time to share their thoughts and experiences.

North Shore Community College legislative briefing

North Shore Community College plays a vital role in preparing students for success and strengthening our regional workforce. I was pleased to have my Chief Medical Policy Advisor, Dr. Bonni Berkowitz, attend the College's recent Annual Legislative Briefing on my behalf.

During the discussion, college leadership, faculty, and students highlighted their Fiscal Year 2026 priorities and the innovative initiatives underway to support workforce development and expand opportunities for students across our region.

These conversations are essential as we work to ensure our public higher education institutions have the resources they need to continue driving economic growth and opportunity on the North Shore.

Thank you to the team at North Shore Community College for bringing together partners in government, education, and industry for this important conversation.

North Shore Superintendents' Round Table

Thank you to the North Shore Superintendent's Round Table for convening their annual legislative luncheon at Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School and bringing together education leaders and legislators from across the region for an important discussion about the future of school funding.

Superintendents shared the significant fiscal pressures facing districts as the Legislature begins work on the FY27 budget, including rising special education costs—particularly for out-of-district placements—along with increasing transportation expenses and other budget challenges affecting communities throughout the North Shore.

During my remarks, I spoke about the need to revisit the Chapter 70 education funding formula so it better reflects the realities districts in our region are facing today. Many North Shore communities receive minimum aid under the current formula, even as the cost of providing a high-quality education continues to rise.

Grateful for the leadership and advocacy of our superintendents, and for the opportunity to continue working together on behalf of students and communities across the First Essex and Middlesex District.

Councils on Aging tour / tax credit outreach

I am proud to serve the residents of the First Essex and Middlesex District as your State Senator.

As part of that service, I had the opportunity again this year to travel around to various Councils on Aging through our district in Gloucester, Groveland, Hamilton-Wenham, Newburyport, Rowley & Topsfield.

We partnered with Brian Lynch from the Department of Revenue to share information about a tax credit program designed for Massachusetts seniors, aged 65 and older called the "Circuit Breaker Tax Credit."

This income tax credit was designed by the Legislature to lessen some of the financial burdens of housing costs and if you qualify you may be entitled to up to $2,820 back for Tax Year 2025.

As always, I encourage you to consult with a tax professional with any specific tax questions.

International Women's Day 2026

International Women's Day 2026

Women have changed the world and that's why equal opportunities for women need to be supported and enriched - something we need to think about, know, value, & embrace.

Lee Swekla's 80th birthday

Please join me in wishing Lenora "Lee" Swekla a happy 80th birthday!

I was honored to mark this momentous occasion by presenting her with an official Senate Citation at the Gloucester Fraternity Club.

Rowley Fire Chief retirement

Congratulations to Rowley Fire Chief Mark Emery on celebrating an extraordinary career of more than 45 years of dedicated service to the Town of Rowley.

From beginning as a volunteer firefighter in 1980 to becoming one of the town's first full-time firefighters and ultimately serving as chief, Mark's leadership, professionalism, and commitment to public safety have left a lasting impact on the entire community.

It was an honor to present him with an official Senate citation in recognition of this momentous occasion. Thank you to the chief for continuing on in serving as Acting Chief during this transitional period for the Rowley Fire Department.

Please join me in thanking Chief Emery for decades of courage, leadership, and dedication.

Wishing you a long, healthy, and well-earned retirement ahead — filled with family, travel, and many more trips to Disney!