The Download: For the ‘canna-curious,’ a new way to buy, ‘drink weed’
Mass. population grows slightly
The Massachusetts population was estimated at 7,001,399 in the latest “Vintage 2023” population estimates from the Census Bureau, an increase of 18,659 people (or 0.27 percent) between July 2022 and July 2023.
Mass. to receive $1.4m in Google antitrust settlement
The $700 million settlement resolves antitrust litigation, with the attorneys general alleging that the company used its Google Play app store to engage in an unlawful monopoly.
My advice: Go fast, go farther, and go quickly
Just imagine if you could get to Springfield from South Station in 45 minutes. This would be transformative. Suddenly you could work in downtown Boston and be home in Springfield—a place you can afford to live—in time for dinner.
Cost of emergency shelter system nearly tripling this year
The report said the cost of the program has nearly tripled, growing from roughly $325 million at the start of this fiscal year to $932 million as Massachusetts has tried to find shelter for a growing wave of migrants from other countries.
MBTA, out $7m for tunnel mitigation, still waiting
Nearly four months after the reopening of the Sumner Tunnel, the MBTA is still waiting to be reimbursed by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation for its efforts to mitigate the traffic impact caused by the two-month closure.
Warren endorses Healey housing plan
Do you think that housing is in short supply in Massachusetts right now?” Sen. Elizabeth Warren asked. “Do you think that rents are already rising like a hot air balloon? Well buckle up for a rough ride.”
Feds say Steward engaged in illegal referral scheme
According to the complaint, Steward violated a federal law barring a hospital from billing Medicare for services requested by a physician who stands to benefit financially from the referral.
Should community college be free?
Eliminating tuition and fees for degree programs at community colleges for all in-state residents, regardless of financial need, has broad appeal, but some say it may not be the best way to reach the goal of expanded access to higher education.
Will artificial intelligence make or break newsrooms?
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE is already in the newsroom. Smart transcription software helps reporters go through their notes faster and review meetings they didn’t have a chance to attend in person, large […]
Will artificial intelligence make or break newsrooms?
Journalists, like everyone else, are wrestling with the impact of AI on their work. Sarah Scire, deputy editor of Nieman Lab, joins CommonWealth Beacon’s Jennifer Smith to discuss predictions about AI tools in journalism, their use and misuse, and how readers feel about the technology.
Healey administration backtracks on offshore wind security deposits
The quick edit came one day after CommonWealth Beacon reported that Massachusetts was assessing a much higher security deposit on offshore wind developers who had reneged on projects in Massachusetts but not in other states.
Two lawmakers made key decisions on closeout spending bill
This concentration of power in the hands of a few people is commonplace in the Legislature, so much so that it is largely taken for granted.
Wastewater surveillance a proactive tool in stemming drug abuse
About 100 communities in the country are currently utilizing wastewater surveillance in some manner to identify high-risk drug use.
A first look at Wu’s housing production goal
Mayor Michelle Wu and her planning chief hedged on setting out long-term housing production goals during a press briefing earlier this week. Days later, the administration offered stakeholders a first look at shorter-term housing targets.
Short takes: Wu, Kraft appearance creates some buzz
Rumors have swirled for months about who might challenge Michelle Wu in 2025, as she’s widely expected to run for reelection. Josh Kraft acknowledged in November he had been approached about running for mayor.
Mass. should ban evictions during the winter months
Despite its frigid weather, Massachusetts doesn’t prohibit evictions during the winter months like some other states and cities.
Jewish senators criticize comments of Miranda
Top Senate leaders who are Jewish say they’re disappointed and saddened by a colleague’s remarks on the Israel-Hamas conflict that seemed to invoke antisemitic tropes.
Creating opportunities for those most impacted by the war on drugs
A legislative update enacted last year may provide the greatest opportunity for individuals directly impacted by the war on drugs.
Mass. raises eyebrows with offshore wind security deposit stance
As Massachusetts gets ready to take bids for the state’s next offshore wind procurement, questions are arising over how to deal with developers who won earlier contracts and terminated them because of changed economic circumstances.