Mass.Gov, Commonwealth of Massachusetts http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=mg2homepage&L=1&L0=Home&sid=massgov2 http://www.mass.gov/massgov2/RSS/Home/newsandupdates.xml © 2010 Commonwealth of Massachusetts 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsmodulechunk&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Emergency+Management+Agency&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=mema_winter_weather&csid=Eeops 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z

What to do before, during and after a winter storm.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ocamodulechunk&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Government&L2=Our+Agencies+and+Divisions&L3=Division+of+Banks&sid=Eoca&b=terminalcontent&f=dob_raladvisory&csid=Eoca 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Division of Banks opposes all high-rate Refund Anticipation Loans.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=020810_murphy&csid=Agov3 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick appointed Joseph G. Murphy Commissioner of the Division of Insurance.

http://jobs.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/02/soon-to-be-a-graduate-start-your-job-search-now-.html 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z

It’s a challenging time for most people to be searching for work. For new college graduates looking to land their first “real world” job, the task can be especially daunting. Whether you’re a graduating senior without a job offer or a freshman looking for internship opportunities, resources are available to help you put together an effective job search. Here are tips to create a more successful outcome.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/02/green-line-extension-field-work-planned.html 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z

Over the next six months, contractors for MassDOT will perform field work in support of the MBTA Green Line extension to Somerville and Medford. Teams will perform field surveys, noise and vibration testing, and soil borings to collect information for the Extension design. People who live and work along the right-of-way may see these professional surveyors and others, who are authorized to work within and around the MBTA right-of-way.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=mg2modulechunk&L=1&L0=Home&sid=massgov2&b=terminalcontent&f=020910employee_storm&csid=massgov2 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z

The current weather situation is being closely monitored. A decision regarding non-emergency Executive Branch employees will be made by 5:15 a.m. on Wednesday, February 10th. Any cancellation will be communicated through Mass.gov, the traditional media outlets, and each agency's Employee Notification Plan.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=mg2modulechunk&L=1&L0=Home&sid=massgov2&b=terminalcontent&f=rss_feb_vacation&csid=massgov2 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z 2010-02-09T00:00:00Z

Do your kids get bored during February vacation? Take them out for some winter excitement!

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=020510_solar&csid=Agov3 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick announced the award of federal stimulus-funded contracts to install 4.1 megawatts (MW) of solar energy at 12 public water and wastewater treatment facilities throughout the Commonwealth. These projects will help to reduce energy bills and greenhouse gas impacts while creating jobs and growing the state's solar industry. The 12 contracts represent the state's largest-ever award for solar installation at public facilities.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2010/02/beware-of-early-tax-refund-services.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z

Anticipating a tax refund? You may be asked if you are interested in a refund anticipation loan (RAL). RALs allow you to receive a check from a commercial tax preparer in the amount of your anticipated refund. Almost sounds too good to be true? It may be.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsterminal&L=8&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Department+of+Fire+Services&L3=Department+of+Fire+Services&L4=Office+of+the+State+Fire+Marshal&L5=Public+Education&L6=Fire+Safety+Topics&L7=FS+Topics&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=dfs_osfm_pubed_firesafetytopics_burnprevention&csid=Eeops 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z

State Fire Marshal announces Burn Awareness Week- February 7-13, 2010. Learn facts about burn safety, how to prevent scald burns, and more.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z

In this week's flu report we see, once again, that the amount of flu-like illness in the state remains low and is consistent with what is expected for this time of year. Nonetheless, flu season in Massachusetts isn't over yet, so it's still important that everyone get the H1N1 vaccine. The vaccine is free, safe, and can be found near you - visit http://flu.masspro.org to find a public clinic in your area.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2terminal&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Consumer&L2=Behavioral+Health&sid=Eeohhs2&b=terminalcontent&f=dph_com_health_injury_c_suicide_prevention&csid=Eeohhs2 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z

Today is Suicide Prevention Day. Here is some information about the Suicide Prevention Program. The goal of the Suicide Prevention Program is to reduce the number of suicides, suicide attempts and self-injury among Massachusetts residents.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=100404_State_Ethics_Committee&csid=Agov3 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z

Governor Patrick announced the appointment of Paula Mangum of Wareham to the State Ethics Commission. Mangum replaces outgoing Commissioner Matthew Kane whose term has expired.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2010_02_05_board_appeal_announcement&csid=Cago 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z

Attorney General Martha Coakley’s Office announced an enforcement initiative regarding insurer failures to follow state law regarding the state Board of Appeal. The Board of Appeal is an independent board that reviews the fairness of at-fault accident determinations made by insurance companies. After an initial review, the Attorney General’s Office determined that at least some insurance companies are failing to abide by a 2009 statute which requires insurance companies to report and use Board of Appeal determinations in setting consumers’ premiums.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=100205_pr_clean_energy_policies&csid=Eoeea 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z 2010-02-08T00:00:00Z

Patrick-Murray Administration clean energy policies to grow the Commonwealth's clean energy economy, combined with pre-existing programs that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency, have put Massachusetts on track to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 18 percent below 1990 levels in the next decade, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Ian Bowles announced.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ocamodulechunk&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoca&b=terminalcontent&f=advisories_Toyota_Alert&csid=Eoca 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z

In some cases, Toyota drivers may have been involved in accidents caused or influenced by stuck accelerators. In light of the recently announced recall of certain models of Toyota vehicles for unintended acceleration, the Division of Insurance is issuing this consumer alert to drivers who may have received an at-fault determination as a result of the accident.

http://jobs.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/02/quest-revenue-system-blog-update.html 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z

We received several comments from employers in response to an earlier blog posted on the Quest Revenue System. Instead of responding to each comment, we’re posting an update.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2010/02/february-is-national-cancer-prevention-month.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z

February is National Cancer Prevention Month. In honor of National Cancer Prevention Month, we want to take this opportunity to remind you to take one small action step today to improve your health and reduce your odds of getting cancer.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=020210_Holyoke_board&csid=Agov3 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced the appointment of three accomplished advocates for veterans to positions on the Board of Trustees of the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke. Bernard L. Jones of Colrain, Margaret Oglesby of East Longmeadow and Steven Como of Pittsfield will serve seven-year terms on the Board, overseeing the work of the Soldiers’ Home, which provides long-term care and residential services to honorably discharged wartime veterans.

http://massvacation.com/blackhistory.php 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z

There are many interesting and educational things to do across the state during Black History Month. Just click on the events for more information.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2terminal&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Consumer&L2=Prevention+and+Wellness&L3=Disease+Prevention&L4=Oral+Health&sid=Eeohhs2&b=terminalcontent&f=dph_com_health_c_pca_oralhealth_unmet_need&csid=Eeohhs2 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z 2010-02-04T00:00:00Z

The Status of Oral Disease in Massachusetts 2009: The Great Unmet Need is a comprehensive report summarizing the most up-to-date and available information on the burden of oral disease in our state. The report was developed in collaboration with many different programs within the Department of Public Health exemplifying a commitment to oral health and its integration with general health and wellness.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsterminal&L=8&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Department+of+Fire+Services&L3=Department+of+Fire+Services&L4=Office+of+the+State+Fire+Marshal&L5=Public+Education&L6=Fire+Safety+Topics&L7=FS+Topics&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=dfs_osfm_pubed_firesafetytopics_icesafety&csid=Eeops 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z

The dangers of ice and cold water.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=020110_LIHEAP&csid=Agov3 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced that thanks to President Barack Obama’s recent order to release $490 million in emergency funds nationwide through the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the state is now able to serve more income eligible families and increase their maximum benefit levels.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=020110_Haiti&csid=Agov3 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s continued efforts to provide relief and resources to individuals impacted by the Haiti Earthquake, Governor Deval Patrick announced the signing of Executive Order 520, which establishes a catastrophic leave donation program to support impacted employees in the state workforce.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=013010_recovery&csid=Agov3 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced that, in the last three months of 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) has funded 4,722 full time equivalent (FTE) positions, which amounts to 13,882 individuals at work in Massachusetts thanks to the Recovery Act.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=020110_MLK_Center&csid=Agov3 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray and Congressman James P. McGovern announced $165,000 in federal recovery funds for Worcester’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Business Empowerment Center (MLKJ-BEC) to prepare participants for jobs or apprenticeships in construction trades and related occupations.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=mg2modulechunk&L=1&L0=Home&sid=massgov2&b=terminalcontent&f=rss_winter_taxes&csid=massgov2 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z

Now is the time to gather up your W-2s and receipts. Here are some resources to make your tax filing experience easier.

http://www.lawlib.state.ma.us/2010/02/older-oil-burners-must-be-upgraded-to.html 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z

A law enacted over a year ago (St. 2008, c.453) requires homeowners with oil burners installed before 1990 to make a small change to their systems by July 1, 2010 to prevent leaks.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012810_knowledge_corridor&csid=Agov3 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration's Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick, Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray, Senator John Kerry, Senator Paul Kirk, Congressman John Olver and Congressman Richard Neal announced the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $70 million for final design and construction of the “Knowledge Corridor” along the Connecticut River rail line in western Massachusetts.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=100129_pr_nation_leading_ee&csid=Eoeea 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z

Heralding a new era in energy efficiency across Massachusetts, the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has given final approval to plans committing the state's investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities to a three-year agenda of innovative, customer-focused programs that will deliver unprecedented savings for consumers, the economy and the environment, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Ian Bowles announced.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/check-your-credit-report-often.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z

It’s a good practice because monitoring your credit report can alert you to problems, inaccuracies and unauthorized use of your credit, up to and including identity theft. By federal law, consumers have access to free credit reports, but you need to go to the right place so that you will to not be charged for this service.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2010_01_29_health_care_report&csid=Cago 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z

Attorney General Martha Coakley’s Office released a report outlining the preliminary findings of the office’s ongoing investigation into the factors that contribute to health care cost increases. During the past year, Attorney General Coakley’s Health Care Division has conducted an extensive investigation into the contracting practices between commercial health care insurers and health care providers (hospitals and physicians), specifically examining health care prices and how those prices are negotiated. According to the report, there are serious system-wide failings in our commercial health care marketplace that threaten access to affordable, quality healthcare.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012810_stem_advisory_council&csid=Agov3 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z

Building on the Patrick-Murray Administration’s commitment to education in Massachusetts, Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray chaired the first meeting of the Governor’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Advisory Council at the Museum of Science in Boston. Upon signing the Executive Order creating the council in October, Governor Patrick said “the STEM disciplines are essential building blocks of a cutting-edge highly skilled workforce. This effort to bring together the very best resources and ideas the Commonwealth has to offer around these areas of study means that today’s students will be ready for tomorrow’s jobs.”

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z 2010-02-01T00:00:00Z

Once again, this week's report shows that the amount of flu-like illness in the state remains low and is consistent with what is expected for this time of year. While it is easy to assume that the flu is behind us, we remind everyone that flu season can last through the spring in Massachusetts. Therefore, we encourage everyone to get the H1N1 vaccine.

http://lmi2.detma.org/lmi/Newsrelease/NewsLMI20100126.htm 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported that unemployment rates were higher in December than in November in all of the Commonwealth's twenty two labor market areas. Statewide, the seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate increased from 8.3 percent in November to 9.1 percent in December.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012610_pension_reform&csid=Agov3 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

Building on sweeping pension reforms he signed into law last year that closed loopholes and eliminated abuses in the public retirement system, Governor Deval Patrick filed his proposal to further overhaul the benefits plan to ensure its long-term sustainability and credibility. The Administration’s plan, informed by the recommendations of the Special Commission on Pension Reform, calls for capping pension earnings, eliminating the so-called section 10 early retirement incentive and increasing retirement ages, among other proposals.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=trepressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Ctre&b=pressrelease&f=2010_012710POWERBALL&csid=Ctre 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

As part of the largest agreement in U.S. lottery history, the Massachusetts State Lottery will begin selling tickets for Powerball, the multi-state, high jackpot game at its 7,500 agents across the Commonwealth on Sunday.

http://consumer.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/what-consumers-should-know-about-automobile-recalls.html 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

In light of Toyota Motor Corp.’s latest recall of 2.3 million vehicles, the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation wants you to know what to expect and what steps you should take if your car is recalled.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012710_FY11_Budget&csid=Agov3 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick released his Fiscal Year 2011 budget, a balanced, fiscally responsible plan that maintains an unprecedented commitment to education, cities and towns, and health care, while also reflecting his Administration’s continued efforts to speed the Commonwealth’s economic recovery and lay a foundation for long-term growth.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2010_01_26_health_plan_regulations&csid=Cago 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

Attorney General Martha Coakley’s Office announced that regulations regarding discount health plan regulations have been finalized and became effective on January 22, 2010. The regulations were designed to protect Massachusetts residents from the unscrupulous marketing of plans that claim to offer discounts on health products or services. Health discount plans are not insurance products and are therefore not regulated by the Division of Insurance.

http://www.lawlib.state.ma.us/2010/01/texting-banned-for-commercial-bus-and.html 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

Tuesday, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation banned texting by commercial drivers. The regulatory guidance is published in the January 26 Federal Register and relates to 49 CFR 390.17. Massachusetts has yet to ban texting or cell phone use for all drivers.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eelders&b=pressrelease&f=100126_embrace_your_future&csid=Eeohhs2 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick, Secretary of Elder Affairs Ann L. Hartstein, and Undersecretary of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation Barbara Anthony launched Massachusetts’ "Embrace Your Future" long-term care awareness campaign at the Morse Institute Library in Natick. With funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Massachusetts is one of 25 states involved in the national initiative to encourage adults of all ages to plan for their future long-term care needs. Governor Patrick unveiled a free, 44-page "Embrace Your Future" long-term care resource guide, which offers a range of strategies for planning ahead.

http://engage.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/your-continued-input-into-our-budget-and-spending.html 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

On our budget site, you can review a helpful guide to the budget process and can fully navigate the budget proposal. Please share your input and feedback in the comments and know that you can also engage with the Governor’s office on Twitter, YouTube, and by emailing or calling.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/mbta-key-bus-routes-realtime-tracking.html 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

MassDOT (Mass. Department of Transportation) and the MBTA announced that riders on five of the T's busiest bus lines can now track the locations of their buses in real-time on the MBTA website.

http://revenue.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/a-great-new-reason-to-make-a-haiti-relief-donation.html 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z 2010-01-28T00:00:00Z

The IRS has just announced a new law that allows taxpayers to claim Haiti earthquake relief donations made this year on their current 2009 tax returns.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012510_ARRA&csid=Agov3 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick and members of the congressional delegation released $185 million in federal recovery funds for water infrastructure improvement projects.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012510_energymanagement&csid=Agov3 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick unveiled a series of cost-cutting energy management solutions to be included in his Fiscal Year 2011 budget recommendation, including an innovative bulk energy purchasing system designed to consolidate fiscal management, reduce waste, and cut the energy bills of state agencies, quasi-public authorities, state colleges and universities, and municipalities.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/its-officially-tax-season.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z

Employers will be soon sending out W-2 statements, banks and investment companies will be sending out mortgage and interest statements and Massachusetts residents will begin their annual quest to compile the documentation necessary to file their annual tax return. There are several free resources available to help navigate this process:

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/mbta-crime-lowest-in-30-years-.html 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z

MBTA Transit Police announced serious crime on the T is at its lowest level in 30 years, with incidents down 21% in 2009 compared to the previous year.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ocapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoca&b=pressrelease&f=2010125_nmlspublicaccess&csid=Eoca 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration’s Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation announced that the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System & Registry, a mortgage licensing system operated by state financial regulators including the Massachusetts Division of Banks, is launching “NMLS Consumer Access.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2modulechunk&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Government&L2=Local+Government&L3=Community+Sanitation&sid=Eeohhs2&b=terminalcontent&f=dph_environmental_g_sanitation_storm_fact_sheet&csid=Eeohhs2 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z 2010-01-26T00:00:00Z

If a person must come into contact with the floodwater they should take the following general precautions.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012210_mma&csid=Agov3 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z

One day after proposing to fully fund Chapter 70 education funding next fiscal year and to hold the line on Local Aid, Governor Deval Patrick offered cities and towns a host of new tools that will help protect essential local services, reduce pressure on local property taxes and strengthen communities' financial footing for the long-term.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012210_METCO&csid=Agov3 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced that he is funding the METCO program at $18.5 million in his Fiscal Year 2011 budget, fully maintaining the program that provides opportunities for students and their families to receive a high quality education. The Governor also plans to fully fund Chapter 70 education aid in the budget he will release next week.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012110_Mattapan_Milton_Transportation&csid=Agov3 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z

As part of his Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick announced that funding has been approved for critical roadway intersection and sidewalk improvement projects in Mattapan and Milton.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2010_01_22_endangerment_finding&csid=Cago 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z

Attorney General Martha Coakley’s Office, 15 states and New York City, filed a motion to intervene in a lawsuit brought by industry groups last fall to challenge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) “Endangerment Finding.” The Endangerment Finding is the EPA’s formal determination that greenhouse gas emissions cause climate change and as a result may reasonably be anticipated to endanger public health and welfare. The filing signals the states’ intention to join with the EPA in defending EPA’s decision. The motion was filed in the Federal Appeals Court in Washington, D.C.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/211.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z

Mass211 is a free and confidential help line to connect people to health and human services. Individuals who need cash assistance for heat, food or other basic needs can access our Community Support Fund by dialing 2-1-1.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z

As you can see in this week's report, the amount of flu-like illness in the state remains low and is consistent with what is expected this time of year. Nevertheless, we're not out of the woods yet so we continue to urge everyone to get the H1N1 vaccine. The vaccine is now widely available and remains the best protection against the flu.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012110_sotc&csid=Agov3 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick laid out his vision for building a better, stronger Commonwealth in the midst of the current global economic crisis. The Governor connected the work he has done and the services the state provides with the direct impact they have on people who are struggling.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/rmv-branch-in-danvers-opens-monday.html 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z 2010-01-25T00:00:00Z

RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles) services will now be offered at a new limited RMV branch at the Liberty Tree Mall in Danvers. The Danvers branch will offer all registry services except, road tests, permit tests and suspension hearings.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=dormodulechunk&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Ador&b=terminalcontent&f=dor_help_RALs&csid=Ador 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z

During the tax filing season, the Department of Revenue strongly advises taxpayers to be wary of tax refund loans — also known as refund anticipation loans (RALs). RALs are secured by and repaid from a pending income tax refund.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=dorterminal&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Tax+Professionals&L2=News+and+Reports&L3=DOR+Press+Releases&L4=2010+Press+Releases&sid=Ador&b=terminalcontent&f=dor_news_pressreleases_2010_webfile_income&csid=Ador 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Revenue’s free and enhanced WebFile for Income tax filing program is up and running online at www.mass.gov/dor, DOR Commissioner Navjeet K. Bal announced.

http://www.lawlib.state.ma.us/2010/01/new-sale-regulations-in-effect-for.html 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z

The Attorney General's office regulates retail advertising as part of its consumer protection responsibilities. Some of them include the need to disclose terms in an audible manner and at a speed equal to the other speech in the advertisement. Print ads can't contain important language that is too small, or hard to read due to lack of contrast.

http://jobs.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/quest-revenue-system.html 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z

We usually devote our efforts on the Jobs Blog to job seekers, but today we’d like to share some information with employers and the business community about the QUEST Revenue System.

http://www.doe.mass.edu/news/news.aspx?id=5260 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z

Two-thirds of the state's public school districts and charter schools have signed a pledge to support the state's pursuit of up to $250 million in Race to the Top funding, a new federal grant designed to transform public education nationwide.

http://lmi2.detma.org/lmi/Newsrelease/NewsLMI20100121.htm 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z

The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported that the unemployment rate rose to 9.4 percent in December from the revised November rate of 8.7 percent. The Massachusetts rate remains below the national unemployment rate, which was 10.0 percent in December, the same as the November rate.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=012110_Green_jobs&csid=Agov3 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z

As part of his Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick announced nearly $6 million in federal recovery funds to make immediate investments in green job training and support services for unemployed and underemployed workers throughout the Commonwealth.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=100120_pr_tag_shark_florida&csid=Eoeea 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z

State marine biologists have tracked an electronic tag placed on a white shark in waters off Cape Cod last September to the coast of North Florida, providing clues to the wintering grounds and other habits of these top marine predators, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Ian Bowles said.

http://revenue.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/see-whats-new-for-the-2010-filing-season.html 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z 2010-01-21T00:00:00Z

Last week, DOR released its annual filing season video presentation. The informational videos are full of useful information for both tax practitioners and taxpayers -- topics include an update on important tax law changes, a discussion of recent health care reform changes, a talk with the Department’s Taxpayer Advocate and a look at DOR’s expanded WebFile program. Tax professionals can also earn a CPE credit for watching the presentation. Take a look!

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=011810_education_reform_signing&csid=Agov3 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z

Delivering on his promise to transform public education in Massachusetts and give all children the chance they deserve to succeed, Governor Deval Patrick signed historic legislation that will turnaround underperforming schools, promote innovation and choice and eliminate achievement gaps that persist despite the successes of the state's landmark Education Reform Act of 1993.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=011310_winchendon_infrastructure&csid=Agov3 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced that the Patrick-Murray Administration has reached agreement with nearly 9,500 union workers on a new contract that will save the Commonwealth millions of dollars and help mitigate employee layoffs.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eeohhs2&b=pressrelease&f=100115_flu_illness&csid=Eeohhs2 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced that it will make $1 million in federal funding available to community-based organizations to increase H1N1 vaccination rates in the populations they serve. The funding is part of an effort to address disparities in the impact of H1N1-related illness in the state, which has taken a more severe toll on communities of color, including Black, Hispanic and Asian individuals.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eeohhs2&b=pressrelease&f=100114_health_care&csid=Eeohhs2 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray administration released a major new report on the key role that community health workers play in improving health outcomes and reducing health disparities among Massachusetts residents. The report, Community Health Workers in Massachusetts: Improving Health Care and Public Health, was produced by the Community Health Worker Advisory Council, a group of public and private sector leaders convened as a result of the landmark 2006 Massachusetts health care reform law.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/rmv-new-online-web-service.html 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z

MassDOT (Mass Department of Transportation) announced that motorists can now order crash reports online at the Registry of Motor Vehicle’s virtual branch. It is the 12th new customer online convenience launched by the RMV in the last two years. The result: a 36% increase in web transactions.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z

We are happy to share that this week's report shows that the amount of flu-like illness in the state continues to decline and has now reached a level that is slightly below what is expected for this time of year. While this is certainly good news, we continue to encourage everyone to take this opportunity to get vaccinated. Remember, while we may not be seeing large numbers of people with the flu right now, we could still see another wave in the weeks and months ahead.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=011510_watertown_path&csid=Agov3 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick announced the construction of a multi-use path and various intersection improvements in Watertown will move forward this spring.

http://environment.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/stay-safe-on-the-ice.html 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z

With the recent bone-chilling temperatures, many bodies of water iced over and ice fishermen, skaters and others are impatient to get out on the ice. Before venturing onto any frozen water body, here are some common sense measures you can take to make sure that the ice is safe.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/donate-wisely-to-disaster-relief-organizations-.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z 2010-01-19T00:00:00Z

As relief organizations descend onto the impoverished island nation of Haiti to aid the thousands who need food, water and supplies in the wake of Tuesday’s earthquake, the Attorney General’s Office wants to encourage residents to consider donating to charitable organizations that can help those who have been impacted by this devastating natural disaster, but is also warning potential donors to protect themselves from fundraising scams claiming to benefit those affected by this week's catastrophe.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=011310_winchendon_infrastructure&csid=Agov3 2010-01-14T00:00:00Z 2010-01-14T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick announced that Winchendon will receive an Economic Development Fund (EDF) grant in the amount of up to $500,000 to fund key infrastructure upgrades that will create nearly 50 new jobs, and support major long term development and job growth in the town.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2010_01_13_donate_wisely&csid=Cago 2010-01-14T00:00:00Z 2010-01-14T00:00:00Z

Attorney General Martha Coakley’s Office encouraged Massachusetts residents to consider donating to charities and relief funds in the wake of the tragic earthquake in Haiti, but also warned potential donors to protect themselves from fundraising scams claiming to benefit those affected by this week's catastrophe.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=011110_re-employment_funding&csid=Agov3 2010-01-12T00:00:00Z 2010-01-12T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan to secure the state’s economic future, Governor Deval Patrick joined Congressman John Tierney at the North Shore Career Center of Lynn to announce $8 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds for the Commonwealth to invest in Re-employment Services (RES) programs statewide. The Commonwealth has received $4 million for this fiscal year to support RES programs in its 37 One-Stop Career Centers, and it is scheduled to receive an additional $4 million in ARRA funds for the next fiscal year.

http://openinternet.gov/workshops/innovation-investment-and-the-open-internet.html 2010-01-12T00:00:00Z 2010-01-12T00:00:00Z

The Internet has become an unprecedented, global platform for commerce, unleashing the power of American innovators and driving economic growth and job creation. This workshop will examine how the Internet's openness affects the ability of network operators, Internet content and application providers, and other Internet technology developers to innovate and to drive investment, job creation, and economic growth throughout the Internet ecosystem. These issues will be explored from the diverse perspectives of innovators and entrepreneurs, investors, network operators and equipment vendors, and experts in Internet innovation and investment.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=010810_affordable_housing&csid=Agov3 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan to secure the state’s economic future, Governor Deval Patrick and Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray were in New Bedford to announce that the state will invest $153.9 million in resources leveraged from various affordable housing programs, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds, and private investment to support 26 projects in 17 communities across the state.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eeohhs2&b=pressrelease&f=100108_health_study&csid=Eeohhs2 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has released the results of an investigation into the occurrence of scleroderma and lupus, two rare chronic diseases, in South Boston.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z

There appears to be a slight increase of flu-like illness in the state, however, the number of sites reporting this week was lower than usual so this data should be interpreted with caution. Nevertheless, there is still a chance of another wave of flu this season this so we continue to encourage all residents to get the H1N1 vaccine.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/concord-bridge-reopens-months-ahead-of-schedule.html 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z

The Flint's Bridge carrying Monument Street over the Concord River in Concord reopened more than three months ahead of schedule.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/mbta-accessibility.html 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z

When it comes to providing accessible service, the MBTA has a lot to feel good about. Since entering into a landmark settlement agreement with the Boston Center for Independent Living (BCIL) in 2006, significant improvements to accessibility have been made.

http://www.mbta.com/about_the_mbta/news_events/?id=18672&month=&year= 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z

The MBTA announced that it will begin a procurement process in 2012 for a new contract to operate commuter rail services, and, in the interim has exercised the final option on the contract with MBCR to operate the system until July 1, 2013. In exercising the option, the MBTA ensured that commuter rail riders will continue to see improvements in service, reliability and safety. The MBTA also announced a series of immediate customer-focused improvements targeted at enhancing the riding experience for the tens of thousands of commuter rail users who depend on the trains every day.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2terminal&L=6&L0=Home&L1=Provider&L2=Guidelines+and+Resources&L3=Guidelines+for+Services+%26+Planning&L4=Diseases+and+Conditions&L5=Influenza&sid=Eeohhs2&b=terminalcontent&f=dph_cdc_p_flu_about&csid=Eeohhs2 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z

National Influenza Vaccination Week is January 10–16. Just because the holidays are over does not mean that the flu has packed up and left your neighborhood! Seasonal flu season generally lasts from December through March and there is no real season for pandemic flu like H1N1. While we cannot predict where, when or who the influenza bug will strike, we do know that when more people are vaccinated against it, the disease will be less likely to spread.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/elders-and-utility-shutoff-.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z 2010-01-11T00:00:00Z

As the temperatures drop into the teens and single digits, it is a good time to remember that senior citizens are particularly vulnerable to hypothermia and, because of that, households where everyone in the home is age 65 or older are protected from utility shut-offs (gas, electricity and landline telephone) at this time of year, regardless of ability to pay. In order to receive this shut-off protection, elders must contact their local utility who will send them the appropriate form(s) to fill out.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2010_01_04_financial_literacy_grants&csid=Cago 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z

Attorney General Martha Coakley’s Office announced that it will award over $1.1 million in grants aimed at supporting financial literacy education in the Commonwealth. This new grant program will support programs that provide direct consumer outreach, and community education and services designed to help homeowners understand household budgeting, recognize predatory lending practices, and avoid mortgage foreclosure.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/01/mbta-commuter-rail-realtime-arrival-countdown.html 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z

The MBTA announced several major service improvements for commuter rail customers as it exercised the final option on the contract with MBCR to operate the system through July 1, 2013, with a new contract procurement process to begin in 2012.

http://www.mhd.state.ma.us/safetyTips/default.asp 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z

Ten safety tips to consider for driving in snow and ice.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=010610_school_transportation_funding&csid=Agov3 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z

With revenue collections to date outpacing earlier estimates, Governor Deval Patrick announced that he will restore two key programs serving Massachusetts students and low-income families. The Governor will restore funding to two programs that had been cut as part of his solution to closing an estimated a $600 million revenue shortfall in the current fiscal year.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=afutilities&L=1&sid=Eoaf&U=tech_blog_cont 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z

Postings will include topics such as, IT investments and innovative technologies that raise awareness of initiatives supporting the business, and citizens will have a forum where they can provide meaningful feedback on recommendations for improvement in services.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=100104_pr_ocean_plan&csid=Eoeea 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z

Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Ian Bowles released the nation's first comprehensive plan to protect critical marine resources and foster sustainable uses in the state's ocean waters.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=dorterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Individuals+and+Families&L2=Personal+Income+Tax&L3=Current+Year+Tax+Information&sid=Ador&b=terminalcontent&f=dor_videos_tax_credits_EITC&csid=Ador 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z 2010-01-07T00:00:00Z

If you work for a living, you may be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and get up to $6,506 cash (federal and state) when you file your 2009 tax returns.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=mg2utilities&L=1&sid=massgov2&U=user_survey 2010-01-05T00:00:00Z 2010-01-05T00:00:00Z

We are conducting a brief survey to determine how easily users can find the information or complete the task they need to accomplish. Please fill out this survey (it should only take 2 minutes!) which will be used to help us determine priorities for improving Mass.Gov.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsterminal&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Emergency+Management+Agency&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=mema_feature_story_2009_feature_stories_2009_winter_safety_series_pets&csid=Eeops 2010-01-04T00:00:00Z 2010-01-04T00:00:00Z

“As the harsh winter months settles in, it is important that you think about keeping your pets safe from all of the dangers that the season can present,” stated Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency Director Don Boyce. “MEMA offers some tips to help insure your pet’s safety.”

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/12/tobin-bridge-joins-massdot.html 2010-01-04T00:00:00Z 2010-01-04T00:00:00Z

The Maurice J. Tobin Memorial Bridge officially joined the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, MassDOT, at midnight on January 1, as required by the historic transportation reform legislation signed by Governor Patrick.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ocamodulechunk&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Government&L2=Our+Agencies+and+Divisions&L3=Division+of+Professional+Licensure&sid=Eoca&b=terminalcontent&f=dpl_consumer_src_news&csid=Eoca 2010-01-04T00:00:00Z 2010-01-04T00:00:00Z

As a part of the Governor’s restructuring of the Commonwealth’s government for greater efficiency, the day-to-day operations and general administration of the State Racing Commission moved under the control of the Director of the Division of Professional Licensure.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091229_pr_solar_pwr_support&csid=Eoeea 2009-12-31T00:00:00Z 2009-12-31T00:00:00Z

Building on the success of the Commonwealth Solar rebate program, which issued awards for 23.5 megawatts (MW) of solar power in less than two years, the Patrick-Murray Administration unveiled new rebate programs that continue the momentum toward Governor Deval Patrick's goal of 250 MW of solar energy installed by 2017.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=trepressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Ctre&b=pressrelease&f=2009_123009ABP&csid=Ctre 2009-12-31T00:00:00Z 2009-12-31T00:00:00Z

State Treasurer Tim Cahill announced that the Massachusetts Abandoned Property Division’s stock liquidation sale and eBay auction this December generated a combined $76.1 million in revenue for the Commonwealth.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091230_pr_reduce_greenhouse_gas&csid=Eoeea 2009-12-31T00:00:00Z 2009-12-31T00:00:00Z

Governors of 11 Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states took the next step toward developing a regional Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding that commits their states to continued participation in a regional effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fuels for vehicles and other uses.

http://lmi2.detma.org/lmi/Newsrelease/NewsLMI20100126.htm 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z

The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported that unemployment rates were lower in November in fourteen of the Commonwealth's twenty two labor market areas. The Lawrence-Methuen-Salem and Worcester area unemployment rates declined the most. The Haverhill-North Andover-Amesbury and Greenfield areas rates were unchanged. The Barnstable, Nantucket and Tisbury areas posted seasonal rate increase. Statewide, the seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate decreased from 8.4 percent in October to 8.3 percent in November.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoepressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eeoe&b=pressrelease&f=2009_12_23_EEC_Web&csid=Eeoe 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z

Commissioner Sherri Killins announced that the Department of Early Education and Care’s (EEC) website has joined the Executive Office of Education and Mass.Gov web portal as a key step towards enhanced customer service and communication with families, educators and early education and care programs.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/12/welcome-to-the-web-site-for-the-interstate-495-bridge-bundle-this-project-will-result-in-the-complete-replacement-or-reconst.html 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z

The end of 2009 brings major progress in the $36.9 million reconstruction of both the northbound and southbound lanes of Interstate 495 in Lowell, funded as part of the Patrick Administration's historic $3 billion, eight-year Accelerated Bridge Program.

http://environment.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/12/winter-rec-vehicle-safety.html 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z

Winter is a wonderful time to be outdoors with an abundance of activities to choose from. Whether it is hunting, fishing, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding, snowmobiling or just taking in the scenery, it can be a fun time of the year. For your safety, our officers are outdoors each season throughout Massachusetts using four-by-four vehicles, ATVs and snowmobiles to patrol off-road areas, and operating a fleet of more than 50 vessels to patrol coastal and inland waters.

http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/mwnews/2009/mwnews_0109.htm#item1 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z

Winter has made its appearance in Massachusetts, but the variable temperatures that have been experienced in the state so far this season mean the condition of ice on the Bay State's waterbodies is unpredictable and could be treacherous. How can you tell if ice is safe? There are no guarantees -- always consider ice potentially dangerous.

http://jobs.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/12/tips-for-temps.html 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z

Reports that the economy is improving and the recent reductions in the Massachusetts unemployment rate are promising signs that things will soon look up for job seekers—and it certainly couldn’t come too soon for those who have been out of work for extended periods of time. As business picks up and companies begin expanding their workforces again, job seekers should keep some important points in mind. If history is any indication, as we rebound from the recession, companies are likely to test the waters with contract or temporary workers before they bring on permanent employees.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z 2009-12-29T00:00:00Z

The amount of flu-like illness in the state continues to decline. This is wonderful news to share, but it's important to remember that flu season here in New England typically lasts well into April. We could see additional waves of flu in the coming months, so we encourage everyone to stay vigilant by getting the H1N1 vaccine, and by continuing to practice good health hygiene.

http://www.mass.gov/massinmotion/portuguese/index.htm 2009-12-21T00:00:00Z 2009-12-21T00:00:00Z

The new Mass in Motion em Português website promotes healthy eating and physical activity at home, work, and in the community. It is a resource for health care providers, businesses and members of the Portuguese-speaking community.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=122109_quincy&csid=Agov3 2009-12-21T00:00:00Z 2009-12-21T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick today joined Congressman Bill Delahunt in Quincy to announce the key final component of the long-awaited Quincy Center Concourse Downtown redevelopment project is moving forward thanks to $8.1 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=mg2modulechunk&L=1&L0=Home&sid=massgov2&b=terminalcontent&f=rss_snowstorm_121909&csid=massgov2 2009-12-19T00:00:00Z 2009-12-19T00:00:00Z

A winter storm is expected to start Saturday evening and last well into Sunday morning with heavy accumulation amounts, particularly in the Southeast portion of Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) encourages residents and drivers to avoid driving during the evening and early morning hours if possible so that local plowing crews have space to safely clear the road. Use the MBTA or regional transit options if possible.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/12/h1n1-vaccine-voluntary-recall.html 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z

Before drug manufacturers ship vaccines to distributors they, along with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), always test them to determine that they meet all safety and efficacy standards. As part of its quality assurance program, manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur, performs additional routine, ongoing tests of their flu vaccines to ensure that they continue to meet required specifications after they have been distributed health care providers.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091211_pr_safe_atv_use&csid=Eoeea 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z

As recreational vehicles begin to flock to snow-covered landscapes, the Massachusetts Environmental Police issued guidelines designed to safeguard snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) users, private property owners, and the Commonwealth’s natural resources.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eeohhs2&b=pressrelease&f=091216_health_environ_concerns&csid=Eeohhs2 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is releasing guidance regarding possible health concerns associated with polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs) compounds in building materials, including caulking, to aide in addressing these concerns associated with schools and public buildings in Massachusetts. The guidance is intended to supplement and clarify recent guidance issued earlier this fall by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency relative to potential health impacts and environmental testing.

http://lmi2.detma.org/lmi/Newsrelease/NewsLMI20091217.htm 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z

Massachusetts Unemployment and Jobs data: The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported the unemployment rate declined from 8.9 percent in October to 8.8 percent in November.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=121409_lynnfield_stimulus_aid&csid=Agov3 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z 2009-12-17T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick joined Congressman John Tierney to announce that the state intends to use $5.9 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds for signal and intersection improvements in Lynnfield and Wakefield. The stimulus funds will support essential transportation and safety enhancements in the area surrounding the Meadow Walk project, a 203-acre redevelopment of the former Colonial Golf Club site in Lynnfield, and keeps with Governor Patrick's and Congressman Tierney's commitment to invest recovery dollars in projects that deliver immediate and long term economic benefits to communities across the Commonwealth.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsterminal&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+State+Police&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=msp_feature_2009_msp_feature_2009_Dec_State_Police_Issue_Winter_Driving_Safety_Tips&csid=Eeops 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts State Police urge motorists to be safe on the roads of the Commonwealth this winter. If possible, do not travel, or keep travel to a minimum during periods of winter weather in order to allow snow removal crews to clear the roadway. For those who need to drive in adverse winter weather conditions, the State Police recommend the following winter driving safety tips.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=121409_fitchburg_commuter_rail&csid=Agov3 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration's Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick joined Congressman John Olver and local elected officials in Leominster to announce the groundbreaking of the first rail improvement project in Massachusetts supported by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

http://www.mwra.state.ma.us/01news/2009/111109wqdata.htm 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z

Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) and its member water communities perform hundreds of thousands of tests each year on hundreds of different parameters. This extensive testing covers over 120 compounds regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, as well as many other compounds that are not yet regulated. The water quality data are posted regularly on our website including the annual and monthly water quality reports.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eeohhs2&b=pressrelease&f=121109_soldiershome&csid=Agov3 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced that it has instructed the acting superintendent to keep the outpatient clinic at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home open with reduced hours while the Administration procures and reviews proposals from community-based heath care providers to continue offering outpatient services for the long-term.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=mg2modulechunk&L=1&L0=Home&sid=massgov2&b=terminalcontent&f=rss_jobquest&csid=massgov2 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z 2009-12-15T00:00:00Z

Come explore the new JobQuest, designed to connect job seekers and employers.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=121009_energy_cost_savings&csid=Agov3 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick joined community action groups and representatives from statewide utility companies to promote the Energy Bucks initiative, a collaborative campaign to build awareness about the fuel assistance, discount rates and energy efficiency services available to working families throughout the Commonwealth.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=121009_marian_mcgovern_appointment&csid=Agov3 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced he has appointed Deputy Superintendent Marian J. McGovern as the next Superintendent and Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police (MSP). McGovern will be the first female to hold the position in the Commonwealth’s history.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=091210_ice_storm_aid&csid=Agov3 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z

Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray announced the release of $5.5 million in state funding to help reimburse communities for costs associated with the December 2008 ice storm that severely impacted significant portions of Massachusetts and left more than a million homes and businesses without power.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z

As you can see in this week's report, the amount of flu-like illness in the state has been downgraded from "Widespread" to "Regional" activity. While this is certainly encouraging news, there's no way to tell if we'll see another wave of illness later this flu season.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/12/clarification-of-underlying-health-conditions-.html 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z 2009-12-14T00:00:00Z

As we announced last week, the state is starting to provide H1N1 vaccine for people up to the age of 64 with underlying health conditions that put them at special risk for complications from the flu. These conditions include the following.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsterminal&L=8&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Department+of+Fire+Services&L3=Department+of+Fire+Services&L4=Office+of+the+State+Fire+Marshal&L5=Public+Education&L6=Fire+Safety+Topics&L7=FS+Topics&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=dfs_osfm_pubed_firesafetytopics_candlesafety&csid=Eeops 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z

Candle Safety Day- December 14, 2009. The second Monday in December has been established as Candle Safety Day to promote the safe use of candles in the Commonwealth and recommending that said day be observed in an appropriate manner by the people.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsmodulechunk&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Emergency+Management+Agency&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=mema_feature_story_2009_feature_stories_2009_power_outages&csid=Eeops 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z

Severe winter weather has the potential to cause power outages. For example, did you know that the weight of a 1/2 inch of snow build-up can be enough to snap tree limbs? The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has provided the following tips for dealing with a possible winter power outage.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsmodulechunk&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Emergency+Management+Agency&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=mema_feature_story_2009_feature_stories_2009_tips_to_ensure_safe_winter_driving&csid=Eeops 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency has issued information to help people prepare for another New England Winter Season. Attached is a list of Automobile Safety Tips and a list of items to be included in your Winter Emergency Car Kit.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsmodulechunk&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Emergency+Management+Agency&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=mema_feature_story_2009_feature_stories_2009_preparing_for_winter_weather&csid=Eeops 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z

A winter storm in New England can range from a moderate snowfall over a few hours to a chilling Nor’easter, bringing blizzard conditions with blinding wind-driven snow that lasts several days. People can become stranded in their automobiles or trapped at home, without utilities or other services. The aftermath of a winter storm can have an impact on a community or the entire region for days, weeks or even months. Storm effects, in New England, include large snow accumulation, extremely cold temperatures, heavy, wet snow or icing on trees and power lines, roof collapses, coastal flooding and beach erosion.

http://jobs.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/12/jenn-james-header-template.html 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z 2009-12-10T00:00:00Z

Over the past few months, we have re-designed the Commonwealth’s JobQuest website to highlight its unique job postings and job seeker tools. JobQuest should be part of every job seeker’s employment tool kit!

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=mg2modulechunk&L=1&L0=Home&sid=massgov2&b=terminalcontent&f=rss_winter_holiday_shopping&csid=massgov2 2009-12-09T00:00:00Z 2009-12-09T00:00:00Z

It's the holiday season and many of us are still shopping for that 'perfect gift' for friends and loved ones. Here are some tips for making the most of your holiday spending.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=120709_it_industry&csid=Agov3 2009-12-08T00:00:00Z 2009-12-08T00:00:00Z

This study, commissioned by a consortium of corporate, industry association and government leaders, reflects that the Commonwealth’s IT industry continues to grow well beyond its roots, creating a strong and competitive technology hub in Massachusetts that also facilitates growth in other emerging arenas. Emerging sectors in robotics, digital media, digital gaming and mobile communications are transforming established markets, opening new business and job growth opportunities enabled by digital technology. Venture capital investment in the Massachusetts IT industry ranks second only to California, at $10,257 per IT worker. Between 2006 and 2008, half of all venture capital investment in Massachusetts went to the IT industry.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2009_12_07_solicitation_report&csid=Cago 2009-12-08T00:00:00Z 2009-12-08T00:00:00Z

Attorney General Martha Coakley’s Office released its Report on Professional Solicitations for Charity in 2008. Professional solicitors, who are paid by charitable organizations to solicit donations from the public, are required by statute to register with the Attorney General’s Office. The report released outlines the financial results of those individual charitable campaigns conducted in Massachusetts during calendar year 2008. The report is published annually and is designed to assist residents in making informed decisions regarding their charitable giving. It does so by providing the public with information regarding how much of every dollar raised by a campaign ends up with a given charity.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ocapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoca&b=pressrelease&f=20091107_overcharging&csid=Eoca 2009-12-08T00:00:00Z 2009-12-08T00:00:00Z

After a series of meetings and inspections of retailers with high counts of overcharging, the Patrick Administration’s Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation announced its efforts have led to steep reductions in inaccurate prices at cash registers at the stores.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=120709_wonderland&csid=Agov3 2009-12-08T00:00:00Z 2009-12-08T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick, Congressman Ed Markey, Speaker Robert DeLeo and Mayor Tom Ambrosino today announced plans to construct the Wonderland parking garage project in Revere. A mix of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and MBTA bond revenue financing will fund the project. The funding plan gives the green light to the planned 9-story, 1,900 space South Garage Parking Facility at Wonderland station that is ready to begin construction in 2010 and will support Waterfront Square, a critical smart growth and transit-oriented development project.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsmodulechunk&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Emergency+Management+Agency&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=mema_feature_story_2009_feature_stories_2009_ice_safety_precautions&csid=Eeops 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z

"Before we experience a tragedy that is unfortunately too common this time of year, it is important that we remind everyone, particularly children, of the dangers of unsafe ice,” said MEMA Director Don Boyce.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z

As you can see in this week's report, we are continuing to see a decline in the number of people reporting flu-like illness in the state. While we are encouraged by these new numbers, we have no way of knowing if this downtrend will continue. It is still very important that all residents continue to practice good health hygiene to help prevent getting or spreading any type of flu.

http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/mwnews/2009/mwnews_1209.htm#item3 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z

If you think an exotic animal like a monkey or alligator, would make a great pet or holiday gift, think again. Massachusetts has very strict regulations governing the possession of both native and exotic wildlife by the average citizen.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2009/12/keep-warm-keep-safe-this-winter.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z

State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan and all the members of the Massachusetts fire service remind our readers that heating is the second leading cause of home fires in Massachusetts and prevention is the key to keeping warm and safe this heating season.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=120409_revenue_gains&csid=Agov3 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z

Revenues from a significant tax settlement the state Department of Revenue agreed to this week, along with a modest increase in tax collections above the year-to-date benchmark, will allow the Administration to avoid a further round of emergency budget cuts to close a previously identified outstanding budget gap of $120 million, Governor Deval Patrick announced. Continuing to aggressively respond to the state’s budget challenges, the Governor last month directed Secretary of Administration and Finance Jay Gonzalez to develop a plan to address the shortfall after the Legislature adjourned for the year without adopting the Governor’s full proposal for closing a $600 million revenue gap for Fiscal Year 2010.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/12/h1n1-nasal-spray-vaccine-safety-concerns.html 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z 2009-12-07T00:00:00Z

As of this week, we have received more than 1.5 million doses of H1N1 vaccine in the state. Like every other state, more than 1out of every 5 doses we receive is in the nasal spray (sometimes called LAIV for Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine) formulation. While some residents have expressed concern about the safety of the H1N1 nasal spray, DPH would like to assure everyone that LAIV is a safe and effective vaccine option for healthy people 2 years through 49 years of age who are not pregnant. This vaccine is also safe for breastfeeding mothers.

http://www.mbta.com/about_the_mbta/news_events/?id=18563&month=&year= 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

Transportation officials announced the transit agency’s wintertime travel guide complete with information on how the MBTA prepares for winter storms, and how customers can get the most of public transportation.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/12/cdc-fluview-h1n1-activity-.html 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

Every week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analyzes information about influenza disease activity in the United States and publishes key findings in a report called FluView. There has been significant media coverage of the report released yesterday covering flu activity for November 15-21 citing a decrease in H1N1 activity. It is important to realize, however, that while activity has decreased in some key indicators it has also increased in others. For example, the report states that thirty-two states are still reporting widespread influenza activity at this time, including Massachusetts.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=120109_cleanup_brownfield&csid=Agov3 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Brownfield Support Team Initiative, Governor Deval Patrick and Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray announced that the cleanup work at the formerly contaminated Ted’s for Tires site is now substantially complete. Through the efforts of the Brownfield Support Team Initiative, the site will become an above-ground, multi-story, 325-space intermodal parking facility.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/12/vaccine-update.html 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

So far this flu season, the limited quantities of H1N1 vaccine available in the state have been reserved for people at especially high risk for flu, including pregnant women, children, caregivers of infants and healthcare workers with direct patient contact. The state is also starting to provide vaccine for people up to the age of 64 with underlying health conditions that put them at particular risk for complications of influenza. If you are a member of a target group, there are several ways you can stay informed about the availability of H1N1 vaccine in your community.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/12/warning-h1n1-email-scam.html 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

DPH has received word of a phishing email scam that is circulating. A message requests that users create a personal H1N1 (swine flu) Vaccination Profile on the cdc.gov website. The message then states that anyone that has reached the age of 18 has to have his/her personal Vaccination Profile on the cdc.gov site. The CDC has NOT implemented a state vaccination program requiring registration on www.cdc.gov. Users that click on the email are at risk of having malicious code installed on their system. CDC reminds users to take the following steps to reduce the risk of being a victim of a phishing attack.

http://www.mhd.state.ma.us/safetyTips/120209_010310.asp 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

These tips include “don’t drive if you have been drinking at all” and “friends don’t let friends drive drunk”, and well as other safety tips.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=elwdpressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Elwd&b=pressrelease&f=extension_announcement&csid=Elwd 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Suzanne Bump announced that additional extended unemployment benefits will soon be available to eligible claimants, and the first batch of extended benefits will be paid on December 15. This most recent extension was made possible by federal legislation passed by Congress and signed by President Obama on November 6 to expand the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) Program, allowing up to 14 weeks of additional benefits for all states.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eeohhs2&b=pressrelease&f=091201_flu_vaccine_coverage&csid=Eeohhs2 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

Health Insurers agree to reimburse public clinics for H1N1 vaccination administration.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=120109_electricity_capewind&csid=Agov3 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced that National Grid and Cape Wind have agreed to enter into negotiations for a long-term contract under which the utility would purchase the electricity generated by Cape Wind. Such a Power Purchase Agreement will be a critical requirement for financing the proposed wind farm in Nantucket Sound, and getting it into construction and operation in time to qualify for federal incentives under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that would reduce the cost of the project by 30 percent.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=120109_pr_ngrid_nstar&csid=Eoeea 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) issued an order that ensures that National Grid’s electricity distribution rates will continue to be the lowest charged by any of the Commonwealth’s four investor-owned public utilities. The DPU’s National Grid order (click here) cuts the company’s proposed rate increase by $67 million, or 60 percent, while approving a new mechanism that encourages company investment in energy efficiency by “decoupling” electric rates from sales.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=trepressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Ctre&b=pressrelease&f=2009_120209BAB&csid=Ctre 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

State Treasurer Tim Cahill’s Office announced the results of its inaugural sale of general obligation Build America Bonds (BABs). On Tuesday, December 1st the Commonwealth sold $956 million in bonds under the BABs program, with interest costs lower by more than $170 million than had the state borrowed in the tax exempt bond market.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=veteranspressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eveterans&b=pressrelease&f=091202_unclaimed_remains&csid=Eveterans 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z 2009-12-03T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced that the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) has entered into an agreement with the Massachusetts Funeral Directors Association (MFDA) and the Missing in America Project (MIAP) to inter unclaimed cremated remains of eligible veterans, their spouses and dependents. Under the agreement, unclaimed cremated remains that have been identified as an eligible veteran or an eligible family member of a veteran will be interred at one of the two Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemeteries.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=113009_expiring_use_law&csid=Agov3 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z

Standing with housing and community leaders, Governor Deval Patrick highlighted a law he signed last week to keep publicly-assisted rental properties affordable and announced the roll-out of a $150 million loan fund leveraged primarily through private dollars to support and secure long-term affordable housing preservation efforts.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/fed-stimulus-rebuilding-creating-jobs-.html 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z

Governor Patrick and MassDOT are investing federal stimulus American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds in road and bridge projects and providing jobs for today and tomorrow in every corner of the Commonwealth.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/framingham-bridge-reopens.html 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced the reopening of the Main Street Bridge over the Sudbury River in Framingham.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/massdot-board-approves-north-bank-bridge.html 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z

The MassDOT Board of Directors approved construction of a landmark bicycle-pedestrian connection from East Cambridge to Charlestown City Square and the Boston Harbor Waterfront- the North Bank Bridge.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/holiday-travel-tips-safe-winter-driving.html 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z 2009-12-01T00:00:00Z

To prepare for the coming wintry weather, motorists should check all fluids, make sure their radiator is winterized, maintain a gas tank above half-full and keep windshield washing fluid on hand. A winter survival kit should include an ice scraper and shovel, flashlight, jumper cables, flares, sand for traction, extra clothing or blankets, a first-aid kit and non-perishable food.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=091125_CSX&csid=Agov3 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced that the Commonwealth’s comprehensive multi-year rail transportation agreement with CSX Transportation (CSXT), the national freight carrier serving Massachusetts, has been submitted for federal review with the Surface Transportation Board. Filing with the Surface Transportation Board represents another major milestone towards the first closing of the historic agreement expected in May 2010.

http://consumer.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/save-money-on-car-insurance-but-dont-get-blinded-by-ad-barrage.html 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z

One of the goals of Governor Deval Patrick’s move to managed competition in auto insurance was to create a more competitive environment for companies to work to win new customers. Based on the number of auto insurance companies advertising in Massachusetts, this goal is being met. We’ve seen the ads promoting savings, better benefits, and stronger customer service. Whether the spokesmen are reptiles, respected actors, or average customers, they all offer the hope of a better deal. And while there is growing opportunity for drivers to shop for an auto insurance policy that offers both protection and a good price, consumers need to be sure a company can deliver what it advertises.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091120_pr_the-great-outdoors&csid=Eoeea 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z

Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Ian Bowles announced the launch of a new blog dedicated to engaging and informing Massachusetts residents and visitors about the Commonwealth’s outdoor activities and events, wildlife, state parks, and local agriculture.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z

We have received some questions about "Table 3: Confirmed influenza cases in Massachusetts" in the Weekly Report. This table can be somewhat confusing because seasonal and untyped influenza cases are grouped together in the final column making it seem that seasonal flu is already heavily present in Massachusetts, or that there is a lot more "other" flu than H1N1. This number can be misleading because at this point, almost all untyped flu is H1N1 influenza. However, this will start to change next month when seasonal flu traditionally arrives in MA.

http://lmi2.detma.org/lmi/Newsrelease/NewsLMI20100126.htm 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z

The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported that unemployment rates were lower in October than in September in twenty of the Commonwealth's twenty two labor market areas. The Amherst, Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford, Peabody and Leominster-Fitchburg-Gardner areas recorded the largest over the month unemployment rate declines. Two areas posted seasonal unemployment rate increases. Statewide, the seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate decreased from 9.3 percent in September to 8.4 percent in October.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091125_pr_cec_mret&csid=Eoeea 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick this week signed legislation that transfers the state’s Renewable Energy Trust to the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, streamlining support for the Commonwealth’s green economy by making a single agency responsible for fostering the development and installation of clean energy technologies.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/home-energy-audit.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z 2009-11-30T00:00:00Z

An energy audit is used to determine how much energy your home consumes and to evaluate what can be done to make your home more energy efficient. An audit assesses where and how your house is losing energy and also evaluates the efficiency of the heating and cooling systems. Energy audits are useful in deciphering ways to conserve energy which will help to scale down your utility bills and in turn save you money.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=dorutilities&L=1&sid=Ador&U=redesigned_WFB 2009-11-27T00:00:00Z 2009-11-27T00:00:00Z

The Department of Revenue will launch a new and improved version of WebFile for Business (WFB) on December 1, 2009. The application has undergone a complete makeover, both in its overall design and technical upgrades. While the "look and feel" of the site has changed, all the familiar functions remain the same. Users will still be able to conveniently fulfill all their business tax needs though the new WFB.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eeops&b=pressrelease&f=112309_funding_released&csid=Agov3 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z

Moving to help municipal police and fire departments across the Commonwealth impacted by budget cuts that have forced layoffs and vacancies resulting from attrition, Governor Deval Patrick today announced the administration will release $17.8 million in federal stimulus funds to hire, rehire or retain 83 police officers in 35 police departments and 105 firefighters in 85 fire departments. The funds will also be used to support additional shift staffing needs.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=112409_fishing_permitlaw&csid=Agov3 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick has signed legislation creating a state saltwater fishing registry that requires saltwater anglers to purchase permits to fish in coastal waters starting in 2011, with proceeds benefitting state marine fisheries programs that improve public access and resource management.

http://www.eot.state.ma.us/default.asp?pgid=content/releases/pr112009_holidayTravel&sid=release 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z

Thanksgiving week marks the beginning of the winter holiday travel season and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is encouraging residents and visitors to plan ahead to avoid delays. MassDOT is offering the following tips for drivers, transit riders and those flying to and from Logan Airport.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091123_pr_gateway_grants&csid=Eoeea 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) today announced 22 grants totaling $7.1 million for projects that will enhance parks and recreational facilities throughout the Commonwealth.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=112409_recoveryfunds&csid=Agov3 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan to secure the state’s economic future, Governor Deval Patrick today announced he will target an additional $30.4 million in recovery funds from the U.S. Treasury Department’s tax credit exchange program to revive five affordable housing developments stalled due to the lack of equity available in low-income housing tax credit markets.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=112309_community_forums&csid=Agov3 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z 2009-11-25T00:00:00Z

Building on his commitment to civic engagement and governing for the long-term, Governor Patrick and senior administration officials will host 19 Budget Hearings and Forums across the Commonwealth over the next five weeks to ensure that citizens across the state have input in developing the Governor’s budget recommendations.

http://www.doe.mass.edu/news/news.aspx?id=5156 2009-11-24T00:00:00Z 2009-11-24T00:00:00Z

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is conducting a survey to support the development of the state's "Race to the Top" grant proposal, and we are very eager to gather input from education stakeholders throughout Massachusetts. This survey is meant to help us understand what you see as the most important projects that the state should include in its Race to the Top proposal, and what would be most helpful in your districts, schools, and classrooms.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eeohhs2&b=pressrelease&f=091118_smoking_cessation&csid=Eeohhs2 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced that the new MassHealth benefit to help smokers quit is already paying off. Within just one year, users of the smoking cessation benefit had dramatic reductions in hospitalizations for heart attacks, declines in emergency and clinic visits for asthma, and a significant decrease in acute birth complications.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/massport-approves-tobin-bridge-transfer.html 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Board voted to transfer ownership of the Tobin Bridge to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). The vote paves the way for transfer of the 2 1/4-mile-long span on January 1, 2010. The transfer is another milestone of the state’s historic transportation reform legislation signed by Governor Deval Patrick.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/11/how-long-can-flu-viruses-live-on-surfaces-.html 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z

This flu season, we all need to do everything we can to keep ourselves and our families safe and healthy -- including keeping "high touch" surfaces like doorknobs, phones and toys clean. Flu viruses, including the H1N1 virus, can survive on these surfaces for several hours. However, once the wet droplets are completely dry, the virus is no longer infectious. According to the CDC, this can take anywhere from two to eight hours.

http://lmi2.detma.org/lmi/Newsrelease/NewsLMI20091119.htm 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z

Massachusetts Unemployment and Jobs data. The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported that the unemployment rate in Massachusetts dropped from 9.3 percent in September to 8.9 percent in October, the first monthly rate decline since June of 2007. Jobs are down 900 for the month of October.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091118_pr_dmf_fish&csid=Eoeea 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z 2009-11-19T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced that the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) has partnered with 15 other Atlantic coastal states in a collaboration to protect and restore fish habitats along the Atlantic seaboard.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=111709_newamericans_recommendations&csid=Agov3 2009-11-18T00:00:00Z 2009-11-18T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick unveiled the New Americans Agenda report, a comprehensive set of 131 recommendations for better integrating immigrants and refugees into the social, civic and economic life of the Commonwealth. The Governor also announced the creation of an inter-agency group to develop an action plan within 90 days for the report, a product of extensive research, expert interviews, input from state agencies and public feedback collected during a series of statewide meetings.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/methuen-route-28-bridge-opens-early.html 2009-11-18T00:00:00Z 2009-11-18T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced the reopening of the Route 28 over Route 213 bridge in Methuen. The bridge opened a full 17 months ahead of the original schedule.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/blue-line-all-new-trains.html 2009-11-18T00:00:00Z 2009-11-18T00:00:00Z

It is out with the old and in with the new on the MBTA Blue Line. As of September, the Blue Line has been all new six-car trains, all of the time. The first of 94 new Blue Line cars began operating last year, replacing over time the old four-car trains.

http://engage.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/its-national-hunger-and-homlessness-awareness-week-get-involved.html 2009-11-18T00:00:00Z 2009-11-18T00:00:00Z

Each year the National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness sponsor National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness week. Ending homelessness isn’t easy. We need the help of the entire community – including service providers, consumers, the business community, faith communities, employers, and average citizens who believe we all have a right to housing.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/11/h1n1-vaccine-update-for-parents-.html 2009-11-17T00:00:00Z 2009-11-17T00:00:00Z

As of this past weekend, the state has received just over 1 million doses of the H1N1 vaccine. However, this is still less than one third of the total amount of vaccine we have ordered. Each week we receive tens of thousands of vaccine doses in our state but we need hundreds of thousands, and eventually millions, to fully address the need. According to the latest projections from the federal government, we will see a significant increase in the volume of doses in our vaccine shipments by the second week in December.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/fed-stimulus-funds-hire-rail-employees.html 2009-11-17T00:00:00Z 2009-11-17T00:00:00Z

MassDOT, MBTA, and the Mass Bay Commuter Rail company (MBCR) announced the hiring of a diverse group of 15 employees with funds from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA). The new jobs support the $9 million Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line project funded through the ARRA stimulus program and part of the Patrick-Murray Administration's Massachusetts Recovery Plan.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/cape-canal-task-force-tackles-traffic.html 2009-11-17T00:00:00Z 2009-11-17T00:00:00Z

MassDOT announced creation of the Canal Area Regional Traffic Task Force to build consensus on the immediate, near-term, and future transportation needs related to ongoing traffic congestion at the two canal bridges in the Cape Cod region.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091116_pr_urban_forestry_grants&csid=Eoeea 2009-11-17T00:00:00Z 2009-11-17T00:00:00Z

In keeping with Governor Patrick’s commitment to protect municipal open spaces, the Patrick-Murray Administration announced nine grants to fund forestry and tree planting projects in communities across the state including Worcester, where the Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) infestation has led to the federally-mandated removal of 25,000 trees.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=111209_utility_oversight&csid=Agov3 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z

Accompanied by officials and residents of Lunenburg and surrounding areas affected by an ice storm that led to lengthy power outages last December, Governor Deval Patrick signed legislation that strengthens consumer protections, provides the necessary tools to the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) to levy financial penalties if utilities do not follow approved storm plans, and puts into law existing requirements for utility storm restoration plans.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/transportation-grants-boost-commonwealth-projects.html 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z

The Patrick Administration announced the awarding of five MassDOT Public Works Economic Development (PWED) grants for projects in Foxborough, Leominster, Braintree/Weymouth, Shrewsbury, and Boston. The PWED grants to municipalities fund transportation infrastructure improvements that create jobs, spur economic development, leverage private investment and target smart growth and better pedestrian access.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=111309_readiness_centers&csid=Agov3 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick joined with education and community leaders to launch the state’s first-ever Readiness Centers at a gathering at Salem State College. The six regional centers will help address key priorities of improving teacher quality and bridging the achievement gap across the Commonwealth.

http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/a-contract-is-a-contract.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AtIssueInFocus+%28At+Issue+%26+In+Focus%29 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z

Last year, many Massachusetts homeowners signed fixed price heating oil contracts when prices were close to $5 per gallon because they feared facing even higher oil costs later during the winter. When prices dropped they were stuck with the fixed rates, unable to renegotiate the contract. Legally, “a contract is a contract” and many oil distributors will include steep financial penalties for customers who fail to honor their fixed price or capped price contracts. During this oil heating season, consumers should carefully read what they are signing to ensure they understand the terms of the contract and get the best deal available.

http://www.mass.gov/rmv/rmvnews/2009/pr_111209prestage.htm 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z

Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) officials launched a new interactive web experience for Registry of Motor Vehicle customers at the Springfield branch where the service was first piloted. First-time drivers and new residents who want to convert their out-of-state license can now pre-stage their permit or new license application online at www.mass.gov/rmv. The program is expected to speed up the time it takes to process new license transactions and eliminate repeat visits to branches.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/developers-challenge-winners-realtime-bus-data.html 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z

MassDOT announced the winners of the 2009 MassDOT Developers Challenge at the first annual MassDOT Developers Conference. The Challenge inspired developers to create both mobile phone applications and data visualizations based on open data feeds provided on the MassDOT Developers Page. MassDOT also announced the release of a Real-Time XML Trial Feed of MBTA bus locations on five of the MBTA’s most popular bus routes. The feed includes data for bus route 39 which serves Jamaica Plain, the Longwood Medical Area, and Back Bay in Boston; and bus routes 111, 114, 116, and 117 which serve Haymarket Station, East Boston, Chelsea, and Revere.

http://www.mbta.com/about_the_mbta/news_events/?id=18510&month=&year= 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z 2009-11-16T00:00:00Z

The MBTA is in frequent contact with the Boston Department of Public Health and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for updates and any developments with H1N1 flu. To help reduce exposure to flu on the MBTA, we have a thorough cleaning process on our buses, trains and stations and on areas such as our fare collection equipment, escalator hand rails, elevator controls, and multiple contact surfaces aboard our subway vehicles and buses.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2010/02/weekly-flu-report-february-4-2010.html 2009-11-13T00:00:00Z 2009-11-13T00:00:00Z

By the end of this week, close to 875,000 doses of the H1N1 vaccine will have been distributed to healthcare providers throughout Massachusetts. While doses are still being shipped primarily to pediatrician and ObGyn offices, we have also begun to allocate limited quantities to local public health departments across the state. Although we have only received about 25% of the total amount of vaccine ordered, if we continue on the federal government’s projected timeline, we anticipate that providers will be able to schedule public clinics for the highest priority groups in the coming weeks.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/rmv-online-now-interactive.html 2009-11-13T00:00:00Z 2009-11-13T00:00:00Z

MassDOT’s Registry of Motor Vehicles Division has launched a new interactive web experience for customers. First-time drivers and new residents who want to convert their out-of-state license can now pre-stage their permit or new license application online at www.mass.gov/rmv. The program is expected to speed up the time it takes to process new license transactions and eliminate repeat visits to branches.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=111209_revitilization_lowell&csid=Agov3 2009-11-13T00:00:00Z 2009-11-13T00:00:00Z

As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration's plan to advance long-term economic recovery and job growth throughout the Commonwealth, Governor Deval Patrick, Congresswoman Niki Tsongas, and state and local leaders toured several recent public-private investments in the City of Lowell. They also attended a groundbreaking for Appleton Mills, a residential development, where the Governor announced a $13 million Growth District grant to help facilitate the project and continue the revitalization of downtown Lowell.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=111109_veterans_bill&csid=Agov3 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z

The Patrick-Murray Administration recognized the service and sacrifice of Massachusetts veterans with the signing of a bill that will expand the benefits and services available to veterans and their families in the Commonwealth.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/11/letter-from-the-commissioner-to-nations-doctors-on-h1n1-vaccine.html 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z

Letter from the FDA Commissioner to the nation's doctors on the H1N1 vaccine. This letter talks about making the 2009 H1N1 vaccine and monitoring the safety of the vaccine.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/software-improves-driver-skills.html 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z

AAA Southern New England is partnering with a leading brain fitness company to offer a new driver improvement software program to assist aging Bay State motorists.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/peabody-i95138-bridges-open.html 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z

MassDOT announced two bridges at the Route I-95/Route 128 interchange with U.S. Route 1 in Peabody will be fully re-opened to traffic ahead of schedule and on budget. The bridge preservation work is taking place under the Patrick Administration’s historic Accelerated Bridge Program (ABP), a $3 Billion recovery effort to repair bridges throughout the state.

http://www.mass.gov/dep/public/press/1109aatw.htm 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z

As part of the Massachusetts Recovery Plan to secure the state's economic future, the Patrick-Murray Administration awarded $302,000 in grants to four municipalities and five private waste haulers to retrofit 132 diesel waste collection vehicles serving 62 communities across the Commonwealth.

http://transportation.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/massdot-board-takes-mbta-safety-steps.html 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z 2009-11-12T00:00:00Z

The MassDOT Board responded promptly to the MBTA safety review ordered by Governor Patrick during its first meeting overseeing the MBTA Tuesday. Transportation Secretary and CEO Jeff Mullan announced the following actions which are found here.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=110909_help_building_contractors&csid=Agov3 2009-11-10T00:00:00Z 2009-11-10T00:00:00Z

Delivering on the themes of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Economic Summit held in October, Governor Deval Patrick announced that the Administration is partnering with the Massachusetts Community Development Finance Corporation (CDFC) to help small, minority- and women-owned businesses and contractors bid on and participate in federal stimulus-funded construction projects.

http://engage.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2009/11/greetings-im-jeffrey-simon-i-head-up-the-massachusetts-recovery-and-reinvestment-office-governor-patrick-has-assigned-o.html 2009-11-10T00:00:00Z 2009-11-10T00:00:00Z

Governor Patrick has assigned our office the task of overseeing the federal stimulus program here in Massachusetts. Hopefully we will be able to start a dialogue or a discussion about what this program means and how it works.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/11/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-pandemic-how-the-h1n1-vaccine-is-allocated.html 2009-11-10T00:00:00Z 2009-11-10T00:00:00Z

In this Sunday's Boston Globe, Stephen Smith's article "A day in the life of a pandemic" tells the story of how the Department of Public Health tackles the complicated and difficult process of disseminating doses of H1N1 vaccine to doctor’s offices, health centers and hospitals across the state. Last Thursday, Smith had the unique opportunity to observe this task he called “equal parts science and art, supply and demand” firsthand when the state received word that we were being allocated another 60,000 doses of vaccine.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091110_pr_farmer_markets&csid=Eoeea 2009-11-10T00:00:00Z 2009-11-10T00:00:00Z

As autumn marches toward winter, the Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) is reminding consumers that many farmers markets throughout the Commonwealth are open during the late fall and winter seasons, providing access to fresh, local produce all year long.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=110509_creditrating_agencies&csid=Agov3 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced that the Commonwealth’s bond ratings have been affirmed by the three major rating agencies, all of whom cited the Governor’s responsible and proactive stewardship of the Commonwealth’s finances during the current economic downturn as a leading credit strength.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091105_pr_biomass&csid=Eoeea 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z

The Department of Energy Resources (DOER) announced its selection of the Manomet Center for Conservation Services of Plymouth to lead a comprehensive study of issues related to biomass sustainability and carbon policy. Launched at the direction of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Ian Bowles, the six-month study will result in a “white paper” that brings the best science to bear as DOER prepares new regulations to establish sustainability criteria biomass facilities must meet under the Massachusetts Renewable Portfolio Standard.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=091105_pr_alb_survey&csid=Eoeea 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z

Volunteers needed for Asian Longhorned Beetle Tree surveys in Springfield & Boston. In an effort to prevent the spread of the Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB), the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) will survey trees in Boston and Springfield this month, and is encouraging residents to join state officials to help look for the invasive wood-boring insects.

http://publichealth.blog.state.ma.us/2009/11/weekly-flu-report-november-5-2009-.html 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z

As illustrated in this weeks report, we continue to see dramatic increases in the number of cases of Influenza-like illness (ILI) across the state. This means that it is more important than ever for everyone to follow our flu prevention and control measures.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=110609_funding_broadband_data&csid=Agov3 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z 2009-11-09T00:00:00Z

Governor Deval Patrick announced that Massachusetts has won approximately $2 million in federal stimulus funding to aid in the development of affordable, reliable broadband Internet services for all communities in the Commonwealth. On Wednesday, the Governor met with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke in Washington, D.C. to push for the state’s broadband priorities, noting that expanding access to high-speed Internet will create jobs, support business expansion and help students and businesses compete in a 21st global economy.