Upcoming webinar co-hosted by MassHealth and Health Connector for Individuals and Families on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. 

To help those who may be in need of health insurance or would like to learn more about MassHealth and Health Connector coverage options and resources available to help.

• On Wednesday, March 19^th at 12 pm, the Health Connector team members will be presenting information about Health and Dental Coverage Options for Massachusetts Residents Losing Employer Insurance
• Register for event - https://malink.co/webinar-031925

Additional information about the Health Connector as a resource for individuals who are uninsured, or recently lost coverage can be found below:

• A quick reference document highlighting what the Health Connector is, the supports offered, and what steps to take if you’ve lost health insurance coverage can be accessed online: health-coverage-after-a-job-loss-2025-eng.pdf
• This landing page outlines the steps an individual should take if they are in need of health insurance coverage: The right plan at the right time - Apply for health coverage

Today, Governor Healey announced the Healey-Driscoll’s Energy Affordability Agenda, which includes relief to energy customers.

For immediate release: 

March 5, 2025 

MassDOT and Fundación MAPFRE Announce Third Annual High School Roadway Safety Public Service Contest 

Contest seeks to engage students and underscore the importance of driving safely 

Deadline for contest submissions is Friday, March 21

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), in collaboration with global nonprofit Fundación MAPFRE, is pleased to announce the launch of the third annual roadway safety public service contest for Massachusetts high school students. The contest, which was launched in 2022 as part of Fundación MAPFRE’s Look Both Ways Program, seeks to help students raise awareness with their peers and underscore the importance of being safe while driving on roadways across the Commonwealth.  

“MassDOT is excited to renew our partnership with Fundación MAPFRE for the third annual roadway safety education contest,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “Engaging young drivers in safety education is a crucial step in our mission to enhance road safety, and we look forward to seeing the innovative ideas that students will present this year. Their participation is vital to our efforts to create a future free of roadway injuries and fatalities.”   

 “While statistics show a decline in road-related fatalities among young drivers over the past several decades, it remains the leading cause of death for that group,” said Jaime Tamayo, Chief Representative of Fundación MAPFRE in the United States and CEO of MAPFRE USA. “It is inspiring to watch students deliver a serious message in creative ways to reinforce the importance of safe driving habits. This contest represents a great example of how peer-to-peer engagement can encourage change.” 

To enter the contest, high schools can visit: https://www.fundacionmapfre.org/en/look-both-ways/. The deadline for contest submissions is Friday, March 21.  Students with the winning submission will work with the Boston Creative Communications Agency (CTP) to produce the spot, which is anticipated to air in the spring before prom and graduation season. Additionally, the winning students’ school will receive a $3,000 prize provided by Fundación MAPFRE.   

About Fundación MAPFRE’s Road Safety initiative: Fundación MAPFRE, a non-profit based in Madrid, Spain, with North American headquarters in Webster, Massachusetts, aims to promote the well-being of society. One of the action areas to which the foundation is dedicated is prevention and road safety. It believes that, if the Vision Zero movement in 1997 led to a revolution in our understanding of road safety, the current goal should be to reach the point where there are no fatalities or road-related injuries.   

For immediate release: 

March 6, 2025 

Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles Reminds Residents REAL ID Compliance Becomes Effective on May 7  

Due to federal requirement, anyone traveling by plane domestically, or wishing to enter secure federal facilities, will need a REAL ID or Passport 

Additional information on required documents, making an appointment, or renewing a credential can be found at Mass.Gov/REALID 

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) is reminding residents that, beginning May 7, anyone traveling by plane domestically or entering certain federal facilities will need a Registry-issued REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID, or a valid passport. The Registry is strongly encouraging everyone seeking a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card to go online now at Mass.Gov/REALID to learn what documents are needed for a required in-person appointment. With two months to go until May 7, Massachusetts is at 56 percent REAL ID adoption, with over 3 million credentials being REAL ID-compliant. 

To receive their credential in the mail, which can take 10 to 14 business days, in time for a scheduled domestic flight, customers who require an in-person appointment should schedule their appointment at least three weeks prior to their flight. 

“May 7 is almost here, and we remind everyone to check your wallets and make sure you and your family members have the credentials that you need, depending on your travel plans,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie. “We want to make sure everyone is cleared for takeoff. Go to Mass.Gov/REALID, get informed on what documents you will need, and determine if you must order any replacement documents.” 

The fee to obtain or renew a REAL ID compliant credential is the same as obtaining or renewing the equivalent non-compliant credential: 

• The fee for renewing a non-commercial standard or a REAL ID driver’s license is $50. 
• The fee for renewing a Mass ID is $25. 
• The amendment fee for upgrading to REAL ID credential before an existing credential’s expiration is $25. 
• Customers with a less than five-year stay in the U.S. pay a pro-rated fee.

Appointments can be scheduled by visiting the RMV’s Online Service Center at Mass.Gov/myRMV or if you are a AAA member at https://northeast.aaa.com/automotive/registry-services/massachusetts.html.   

The RMV has posted helpful information on REAL ID requirements that customers can use to prepare for their in-person visits, including convenient document checklists to help pre-stage REAL ID applications, at Mass.Gov/REALID. Documents required for this transaction include: 

• proof of lawful presence,
• two (2) proofs of Massachusetts residency, and 
• proof of a full Social Security Number (SSN). 

Customers who have had a name change since the issuance of a birth certificate, passport, or other lawful presence document, will need to show the reason for the name change by presenting documentation like a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court document. These required documents must be original or certified versions. The RMV recommends customers gather these documents well in advance of appointments to ensure they have the information required by federal law.  

Customers are eligible to renew up to one year in advance of the expiration date printed on their license or ID. Customers who already have a compliant credential may renew online as long as they have not had a name change.    

Prior to May 7, 2025, customers will not need a federally compliant REAL ID for the purposes of boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities.  

For additional information and details on these and other RMV service offerings, please visit Mass.Gov/RMV. 

For information on acceptable identification at airport security points, please visit tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.  

The MBTA is preparing for the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade and festivities in South Boston on Sunday, March 16, 2025. With nearly a million people expected to attend the parade, the MBTA is implementing several measures to accommodate the increased ridership and to remind the riding public what everyone can do to help maintain a safe and family-friendly environment. Riders are encouraged to check out the MBTA’s St. Patrick’s Day Guide for information on taking the T to the parade, how to pay fares, and more at mbta.com/StPatricksDay. 
 
“The safety of our customers and employees is our top priority,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “We encourage everyone to celebrate the holiday responsibly and remain vigilant—if you see something, say something. We want everyone to enjoy the Saint Patrick’s Day festivities while being mindful of fellow travelers and lending a helping hand to those needing directions or assistance.” 
 
“The MBTA takes great pride as we continue to improve daily service and increase service options every year so everyone can enjoy St. Patrick’s Day and all the festivities,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “Public transit services are essential, allowing everyone alternative ways to safely travel and celebrate. I thank our dedicated employees who ensure that our riders get to their destinations every day. Leave the driving to us and use caution when traversing the system as we all celebrate St. Patrick’s Day together.” 

Additional Service and Bus Route Detours

To manage anticipated peak ridership and minimize platform congestion, the MBTA will strategically position additional personnel throughout the system to manage crowding, assist with passenger flow, and ensure a safe environment. The MBTA encourages all riders to be mindful while using escalators and navigating stairs during periods of heavy foot traffic. Service information is available at mbta.com/StPatricksDay. 
 

• Shuttle Bus: The MBTA will provide free shuttle bus service from South Station to South Boston between 9:30 AM and 5 PM on the day of the parade.
    
• Red Line: The Red Line will operate rush hour service from 10 AM to 6 PM. Trains may bypass Broadway during certain times due to heavy crowds.  
   
• Bus Detours: Routes 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, and 47 will be detoured around the parade area. Buses will not stop at Broadway beginning at 9:45 AM or Andrew beginning at 10:15 AM. 
   
• Commuter Rail: Commuter Rail trains will run with additional cars to accommodate parade attendees. Additional customer service and management staff will be available at South Station to answer any questions and assist customers. More information about Commuter Rail service on the day of the parade will be available soon on mbta.com/StPatricksDay. 
   
  • $10 Weekend Passes are valid for unlimited travel on all Commuter Rail lines in all zones on Saturday and Sunday. Riders are encouraged to buy them in advance with the mTicket app.  

“Our MBTA has seen so many improvements over the past year. Let’s all enjoy the service, and the City, by celebrating responsibly and discouraging behavior that could damage our property or disrupt the transit system,” said Chief Operating Officer Ryan Coholan. “By working together and respecting our shared public spaces, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for all.” 
 
“For the St. Patrick’s Day parade, our top priority at Keolis is to get passengers to and from the festivities safely and reliably,” said Abdellah Chajai, CEO and General Manager of Keolis Commuter Services. “We expect high ridership and encourage our riders to plan ahead and expect longer boarding lines, especially at South Station. I’d like to thank our crews for their hard work and dedication to delivering for our passengers on March 16 and every day.” 

Enhanced Security Measures & Safety Tips for Riders 

The MBTA Transit Police Department, under the leadership of Chief Kenneth Green, will significantly increase uniformed officer presence throughout the system to deter crime and to respond swiftly to any incidents.  
 
“We will be working closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure a secure environment for everyone who uses our public transit system,” said Chief Green. “We want everyone to remember, St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration, and it’s essential to prioritize safety and responsible behavior.”  
 
The MBTA urges riders to celebrate responsibly, leave their vehicles at home, take public transportation to festivities, and follow these safety tips:  

• Alcohol consumption and/or unruly behavior will not be tolerated on the MBTA.  
• Secure personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. If wearing a backpack, remove it and hold it at your side or set it between your feet. Leave large items like coolers at home. 
• Let riders off the trains before you board. 
• Travel on the T without bikes. Bikes (including folding bikes) are not allowed on the MBTA at any time the day of the parade. 
• Report any suspicious activity or individuals in distress to the nearest police officer, call the Transit Police at 617-222-1212, or dial 911.  
• Download the MBTA See Say App to quickly and discreetly report suspicious activity to Transit Police. Using this app, riders can send Transit Police pictures, text messages, and locations of suspicious activity. 
• Follow the instructions of MBTA Transit Police officers and staff who are there to ensure everyone’s safety.  
• Take care of yourself and others. Seek medical attention when necessary.  

The MBTA is stressing the importance of celebrating responsibly on public transit. Vandalism and disorderly conduct can create safety hazards, delays, and additional cleaning costs, which can divert valuable resources away from essential maintenance services and improvements that benefit all riders.

Are you a Building Trades Union Member who's struggling?

Recovery: Your Union can help.

To take the first step: visit massbuildingtrades.org/recovery

"Massachusetts Building Trades Unions have staff and benefits to help members through trying times. Find a weekly meeting to attend for support or call an officer or member of your trade directly in the list below. Use these resources to find help. With union health benefits and support, you can recover and you can get back to work afterwards."

Energy company hosting webinars to provide information on assistance programs and payment plans

The Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) is excited to introduce the MassVets Benefit Estimator, a new tool developed by EOVS to help veterans and their families quickly determine their eligibility for monthly financial assistance through the Chapter 115 Safety Net Program.

This tool simplifies the process of accessing critical financial support for daily living expenses, housing, medical care, and more.

To help spread the word about the MassVets Benefit Estimator, we’ve attached:
- A Press Release with details on the tool and expanded benefits.
- A Social Media Toolkit with ready-to-use images and captions for Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

Message from DCR:

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you! The countdown to the 2025 DCR camping season is officially on, and reservations will open on next Wednesday, February 19, at 9 a.m. sharp. This marks the beginning of an unforgettable outdoor adventure for many, and we want to make sure everyone is prepared! 

Here’s a preview of what to expect in the upcoming season: 

• Reservations Open February 19: Campers can book their stay up to four months in advance. For example, if you're planning to camp on August 12, make sure to log on and book starting April 12. 
• Streamlined Reservation Process: We've made improvements to the reservation system to make booking easier than ever. Campers will need to ensure all necessary fields are completed for a smooth check-in process. 
• Same-Day Reservations: While walk-in camping is no longer available, campers can still secure a spot with same-day reservations until 2 p.m. through ReserveAmerica. 
• Registered Campers Only: Only registered campers will be allowed to stay overnight. However, day-use areas will remain open for group gatherings. 

If you have any questions or need further details, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]

Advisory: Boston

TONIGHT: Temporary Overnight Closure of I-90 Westbound Ted Williams Tunnel

The tunnel will be closed overnight tonight, from 11:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following morning for various maintenance activities.

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing that maintenance operations will take place overnight on Tuesday, February 11, on I-90 westbound in the Ted Williams Tunnel. To complete this work safely and effectively, the Ted Williams Tunnel westbound will be closed overnight from 11:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following morning. This overnight closure is necessary for crews to complete communications work and conduct overhead sign inspections and repairs. 

Drivers will be detoured through the Sumner Tunnel, and all detours will be posted. 

Truck traffic will travel northbound on Route 1A and return to Boston via Route 1 southbound/Tobin Bridge. 

Drivers traveling through the affected areas should expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution. 

Appropriate signage, law enforcement details, and advanced message boards will be in place to guide drivers through the work area.   

All scheduled work is weather dependent and/or may be impacted due to an emergency.

For more information on traffic conditions, travelers are encouraged to: 

• Dial 511 and select a route to hear real-time conditions. 
• Visit www.mass511.com to view live cameras, travel times, real-time traffic conditions, and project information before setting out on the road. Users can subscribe to receive text and email alerts for traffic conditions. 
• Follow @MassDOT on X (formerly known as Twitter) to receive regular updates on road and traffic conditions.