Hello everyone!

Although I have only been state senator for the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire district for three months, it has been a packed time period, and I wanted to give you all an update of some of my work.

Going from the state representative for one city to the State Senator for 11 different communities is a huge change, and I have dedicated plenty of time to visiting these communities, meeting with local officials and constituents, and learning about different needs and issues. COVID-19 has affected so many people, and much of my work so far has been on helping communities and residents get the help they need right now, whether it be unemployment benefits, testing information, or other resources.

Legislation wise, I’ve quickly been a part of some important bills. The Senate has passed several major funding and relief bills during these months, including the Endure Act and the COVID-19 Supplemental Budget. The Endure Act authorizes $455 million to communities to aid small businesses and workers, and stimulate economic development. The Supplemental Budget, which was recently signed into law by Governor Baker, is in direct response to COVID-19, and provides $350 million for PPE and $30 million for community health centers among other things. Included in the final bill was my first piece of Senate legislation, an amendment earmarking $250 thousand for the Holyoke Soldiers Home. As a veteran, I spent plenty of time at the Home before these tragedies, and as the Senator now representing the Home, I have made advocating for the facility and its residents one of my top priorities. I have held listening sessions with the families of those who have passed away, had conversations with the Department of Veterans Services and the Governor’s administration on how to improve the Home, and worked alongside advocates and community stakeholders, and will continue doing so.

I’ve also been proud to advocate for our district in a number of different ways. In recent bond bills, I have pushed for infrastructure upgrades to public safety departments, and increased funding for transportation projects across our district. I have called for increased COVID-19 testing capabilities alongside my Western Mass colleagues, and am glad that state testing is now available at no cost in Agawam and Holyoke. I’ve met with community organizations and businesses in every town and city, and learned how I can best support them through my work, and I’ve begun to build relationships that will serve me and our district well.

Being in the Senate is a change from the House, and I’ve learned a lot in these few months. One thing that has not changed though, is my duty to you all. I got elected to be your state senator, not a candidate, and if I can ever be of assistance, please never hesitate to reach out. You can find me at 413-572-3920, at john.velis@masenate.gov, or at senatorjohnvelis.com. Be safe, and stay well.

John Velis
State Senator
2nd Hampden and Hampshire District