Massachusetts officials are making efforts to expand language access across the state government.
BOSTON - Massachusetts officials are making efforts to expand language access across the state government.
Governor Maura Healey signed an executive order on the matter in commemoration of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs through October 15. The state is working towards making more resources and services available to those who do not primarily speak English; Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll noted that roughly 25% of the Commonwealth's population speaks a language other than English.
The executive order will require branches of the state government to develop plans to enhance the levels of multilingual access provided. Departments will evaluate their current offerings and decide on how to build off of them.
The development could especially be impactful to those in Framingham, a city that notably features a large number of people who speak languages other than English.
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Local school leaders are progressing through a feasibility study to develop a plan for a new elementary school along Bethany Road, which would replace Hemenway Elementary. The company brought on board for the process estimates that construction could begin in September 2028.
About 23% of registered Framingham voters cast a ballot in 2025. Charlie Sisitsky defeated Geoff Epstein to win another term as mayor, while John Stefanini and Mary Kate Feeney won in their respective City Council races. Brandon Ward and Michael Cannon were reelected to the local legislative board, while Lorena Tovar and Brent Lewis were victorious in their School Committee bids. Changes to the city's Home Rule Charter received overwhelming support as well.
November’s funding for the food program—otherwise known as food stamps—remains uncertain amid the federal government shutdown. In turn, organizations such as Daniel’s Table are experiencing a rise in demand.
