Today In the Senate Chamber 7.1.26

The Senate will be taking up the following legislation during today, Wednesday, July 1st's Formal Session - set to begin at 11 AM:

📃 The Senate Ways & Means' version of H.5175, An Act Relative to Energy Affordability, Clean Power and Economic Competitiveness ( S.3143)

📃 S.3145, An Act to Improve Outdoor Lighting, Conserve Energy, and Increase Dark-Sky Visibility

To read the full text of the bill(s) and the 183 filed amendments in advance of today's session online, visit:

▶ https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S3143

▶ https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S3145

You can read a copy of TODAY's tentative agenda in advance online at the following location:

▶ https://malegislature.gov/ClerksOffice/Senate/Agenda

To watch the formal Senate Session LIVE, see below link ⬇

▶ https://malegislature.gov/Events/Sessions/Detail/7735

#Transparency #mapoli #MassSenate #Today #InTheSenateChamber #Formal #statesenatorbrucetarr

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.9.26

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.9.26

'Massachusetts passes law to allow later last calls and public drinking zones this summer'

By Nik DeCosta-Klipa | WBUR 90.9 FM

EXCERPT BELOW:

"The bill to temporarily allow public drinking zones and last calls as late as 3 a.m. across Massachusetts this summer is suddenly, officially law.

The final bill also includes a provision added yesterday by state Sen. Bruce Tarr directing the state to study and report back on the effects of the later last call. "My hope is that we can learn a great deal from this — about behavior patterns, about public safety, about considerations that we may need to take into account in the future when we contemplate legislation that is of this nature," the Gloucester Republican said during a floor speech."

Read the full article ⬇

🔗 https://www.wbur.org/news/2026/06/09/massachusetts-alcohol-laws-last-call-world-cup

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.9.26

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.9.26

'Mass. loosens alcohol laws temporarily this summer'

By Ella Adams | State House News Service | NBC10 Boston

EXCERPT BELOW:

"'The bill bounced between chambers Monday after the Senate adopted Sen. Julian Cyr language that would have extended the timetable allowable for public consumption in designated "districts" within cities and towns through Sept. 7, and Sen. Bruce Tarr language related to program reporting.

The initial Rep. Carole Fiola proposal would have allowed extended last call season to begin on June 1 and run through Aug. 31. The iteration of the bill the House passed on Thursday would have taken effect Monday, June 8 and expired Friday, July 31.

The specific start date was struck from the final version of the bill. Both chambers adopted emergency preambles to the final proposal, meaning it would take effect upon Healey's signature.

Tarr's provision would task the Executive Office of Economic Development, in consultation with the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, and the Department of Revenue with reporting on "the implementation and outcomes" of the pilot program.

"My hope is that we can learn a great deal from this, about behavior patterns, about public safety, about considerations that we may need to take into account in the future when we contemplate legislation that is of this nature," Tarr said on the floor.

Among other metrics, the report would include the number and location of districts designated by municipalities, the number of communities authorizing establishments to sell alcohol for off-premises consumption in those districts, and "any evidence of increased public safety incidents as a result of extended hours of on premise sales." The report would have to be filed by Dec. 31, 2026 with findings and recommendations."

Read the full article ⬇

🔗 https://www.nbcboston.com/news/politics/mass-set-to-loosen-alcohol-laws-temporarily-this-summer/3961908/

#TarrInTheNews #NBC10 #SHNS #StateSenatorBruceTarr

Rotary Club of Ipswich-Rowley's Flag Day Ceremony

On June 14th, I was pleased to join the Rotary Club of Ipswich-Rowley for its annual Flag Day Ceremony held on the Ipswich South Green and joining alongside my House colleague Kristin Kassner State Representative 2nd Essex District and local officials in sharing remarks.

Surrounded by a beautiful display of 100 American flags, community members gathered to reflect on the meaning of Flag Day and the values represented by our nation’s flag — service, sacrifice, unity, and freedom.

I was honored to join guest speaker Larry Jordan, veterans from VFW Post 1093 and @american_legion_post_80 led by Commander Jim Graffum, Rotary leaders, local officials, and community members for this meaningful celebration.

Many thanks to Ann Witzig and the Ipswich-Rowley Rotary Club for organizing this wonderful tradition, and to Rotary District 7930 President Pooja Singla, Rotary International Representative Joan Arsenault, Ipswich Select Board members, and Ipswich-Rowley Rotary Presidents George Gray and Doug Shealy, along with President-Elect Susanne Pedersen, for their leadership and participation.

A special thank you to talented bagpiper Jay Stanbury for helping set the tone for this memorable ceremony.

Our flag represents the ideals we stand for and the sacrifices made by generations of Americans who have protected those freedoms.

Ceremonies like this remind us of the importance of honoring that legacy and coming together as a community to recognize the values and service that our flag represents.

#StateSenatorBruceTarr #IpswichMA #RowleyMA #RotaryClub #FlagDay2026

Dedication of the new Town of Middleton Public Safety Building

Honored to attend the dedication of the new Town of Middleton Public Safety Building today. Grateful for the first responders who keep our communities safe and for the investment in a stronger future for Middleton. Town of Middleton Police Dept Middleton Fire Department

The Power of Civic Engagement

The Power of Civic Engagement

One of the most rewarding parts of serving in the Legislature is working with young people who are willing to transform ideas into meaningful action.

For nearly three years, I have had the privilege of working with North Andover students Mariah Eskel and Sofia FloresQuero Llamas, whose dedication to public service and environmental policy demonstrates the power of civic engagement at any age.

What began as a middle school civics project evolved into years of research, collaboration, and advocacy. Together, Mariah and Sofia developed legislative proposals focused on expanding renewable energy opportunities, advancing battery storage research, and exploring ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They took the time to understand complex policy issues, participate in the legislative process, and advocate for ideas they believe can make a difference.

Their work is a powerful reminder that civic engagement is not limited by age — and that when students are given the opportunity to participate, they can bring thoughtful ideas and meaningful solutions to the table.

I am grateful for the opportunity to work with Mariah and Sofia and help support their efforts as they continue their journey from the classroom into public policy.

Congratulations to both of them on their accomplishments, and thank you for showing the impact that passion, persistence, and civic participation can have.

Read more about their work:

🔗 The Eagle-Tribune: https://www.eagletribune.com/news/merrimack_valley/high-schooler-puts-civics-to-action-with-environmental-proposals/article_ce354f2a-5e51-46af-91b9-ade20a7f6c37.html

🔗 The Boston Globe: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/06/13/metro/beacon-hill-high-school-students-climate-legislation/

#FeelGoodFriday #CivicEngagement #StudentAdvocacy #NorthAndoverMA #StateSenatorBruceTarr

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.17.26

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.17.26

'Local, state officials celebrate Larkin Dam's removal'
By Dave Rogers | Daily News of Newburyport

EXCERPT BELOW:

"'The celebration Thursday brought together project partners, including the town, the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration, the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, the Ipswich River Watershed Association, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Officials cut a ceremonial ribbon and provided guided walks to view the newly restored river channel.

The project reflects years of planning, engineering and partnership among local, state, federal and nonprofit organizations. In addition to removing the dam, they have planted thousands of native shrubs and trees to stabilize riverbanks, improve habitat and support long-term ecological recovery.

With the dam removed, and the section of the river flowing freely for the first time in more than a century, the Parker River is already showing signs of recovery. Native vegetation is taking hold, sediment is moving naturally through the system, and fish are returning to upstream habitat, according to state officials.

“Dam removal is a powerful tool for river and habitat stewardship, and the elimination of the Larkin Dam is a prime example of the effective use of that tool,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester.

“The removal project enhanced fish habitat, increased spawning potential, improved public safety and will support flood control. All of these benefits are important, and all have been secured with the action taken to dismantle the dam.”"

Read the full article ⬇

🔗 https://www.gloucestertimes.com/news/north_of_boston/local-state-officials-celebrate-larkin-dams-removal/article_0fdec2f4-d866-5f04-ac24-3e925f1fe567.html

#TarrInTheNews #NDN #NewburyMA #LarkinDam #StateSenatorBruceTarr

Celebrating the Removal of the Larkin Dam

On June 11th, our Director of Specialty Projects Valerie Coolidge joined state, local, and environmental leaders in Newbury on my behalf for the ribbon cutting celebrating the removal of the Larkin Dam.

The removal of the dam marks an important milestone in restoring the natural function of the river, improving fish passage, enhancing wildlife habitat, and strengthening the long-term health and resilience of the Ipswich River watershed.

Projects like this demonstrate what can be accomplished when conservation organizations, municipalities, state and federal agencies, and community partners come together with a shared vision. I was proud to support this effort and the collaborative work that made this important restoration project possible.

Thank you to the Ipswich River Watershed Association, the Town of Newbury, the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, NOAA, and all of the partners whose dedication and commitment helped bring this project to completion.

Protecting and restoring our natural resources is an investment in the future of our communities and the environment we all share.

#StateSenatorBruceTarr #NewburyMA #IpswichRiver #EnvironmentalStewardship

Celebrating the Old Essex Road Removal and Marsh Restoration Project in Essex and Ipswich

Recently, our District Legislative Liaison, Kristin McDonald, was pleased to join local officials, environmental advocates, project partners, and community members on my behalf for the ribbon cutting celebrating the completion of the Old Essex Road Removal and Marsh Restoration Project in Essex and Ipswich.

Kristin shared remarks recognizing the years of collaboration and dedication that made this important restoration effort possible. By removing Old Essex Road and restoring natural tidal flow to the upper Castle Neck River, the project is helping to revitalize a significant portion of the Great Marsh while enhancing the long-term resilience of our coastline.

The Great Marsh is one of our region's most important natural resources, supporting wildlife habitat, fisheries, recreation, and coastal communities. This project demonstrates the value of investing in innovative, science-based solutions that protect both our environment and our economy.

I am grateful to the many partners whose vision, hard work, and commitment helped bring this project to fruition. Congratulations to all involved on reaching this significant milestone.

📸: Melanie Simard | The Local News

#EssexMA #IpswichMA #GreatMarsh #StateSenatorBruceTarr

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