March 2025

Hello Everyone!

 

As the month of March comes to an end and we step into April, I’m reminded that every season brings new opportunities — for growth, renewal, and pushing forward together. While challenges may persist, our community’s strength and resilience continues to shine.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed in times of uncertainty, but I believe in the power of standing up, speaking out, and supporting one another. Every voice matters, and every action counts. Together, we can face whatever comes our way and keep building a brighter future for all of us.

 

Let’s keep fighting for the values we hold dear — for fairness, opportunity, and dignity. Our community knows how to get the job done, and we will continue to show up for one another. Whether it’s advocating for better schools, affordable housing, or protecting our fundamental rights, we are strongest when we work together.

 

As we move into a new month, I invite you to stay engaged, support your neighbors, and keep believing in what’s possible. Democracy thrives when we all participate, and your dedication is what makes our district a better place for everyone.

 

We’ve got this — and I’m proud to stand with you.

 

With determination and gratitude,

 

Tara Hong

State Representative 

18th Middlesex District 

On Tuesday, February 25, the House voted on Rules, and on Wednesday 2/26 House Members received their committee assignments. I was assigned to the following committees:

  • Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses
  • Joint Committee on Higher Education
  • Joint Committee on Election Laws
  • Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on these committees and look forward to forging deeper relationships with my colleagues so that we can work to improve the lives of those in our districts and across the Commonwealth as a whole.

April Office Hours
Join Us for Office Hours!

We're excited to host our third Office Hours in the District, and we'd love to meet you!  Stop by and say hello, share your thoughts, ask questions, or discuss ways we can support you. We are here for you.

 

Joining us this month will be City Councilor, Vesna Nuon!

 

📅 Saturday, April 12
📍 Kim's Donuts

      56 Branch Street, Lowell

⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Bills Filed
  • H.3506 - An Act relative to digital inclusion for seniors
  • H.771 - An Act relative to intergenerational community engagement
  • H.3850 - An Act establishing the Massachusetts veterans service dog program
  • H.603 - An Act relative to enhancing civic education in Massachusetts public schools
  • H.1526 - An Act establishing a rent stabilization commission
  • H.3851 - Resolutions condemning political oppression and encouraging free and fair elections in Cambodia
  • H.733 - An Act relative to educator pay
  • H.3129 - An Act aligning the long-term capital gains tax rate with the short-term capital gains tax rate
  • H.2347 - An Act to promote Yes in God's Backyard, allowing religious institutions to build affordable housing on their property
Bills Cosponsored
If there are any other bills you'd like me to support, please contact my office. 
Key Updates

March 5 I attended the Clemente Park Phase 1 Public Meeting and heard about the exciting $1.8 million renovation coming this year! 

March 6 Congrats to Senator Robyn Kennedy and Rep. Sean Garballey, honored at the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council & The Arc of Massachusetts 47th Annual Legislative Reception. It was great to see Lowell's own Jackie Doherty! I also attended a briefing on S874/H1396, An Act strengthening mental health centers

March 10 The Healey-Driscoll Administration discussed its Energy Affordability Agenda. The plan contains ways for consumers across the Commonwealth to immediately lower energy costs, as well as steps to reduce energy costs longterm. This coming April, every electric residential customer served by Eversource, National Grid, and Unitil in Massachusetts will receive a $50 credit on their bills and with a long plan from the Governor team on working to keep it affordable for our community. 
To learn more about the Energy Affordability Agenda visit https://www.mass.gov/info-details/governor-healeys-energy-affordability-agenda
 
To find out what other savings programs you may qualify for, visit https://www.mass.gov/info-details/get-energy-savings-now
March 19 It was a beautiful day at the State House, and even more beautiful to see over 500 people come together for Immigrants Day! A huge thank you to everyone who showed up and continues to fight for our communities.
 
A special shout-out to the more than 30 Lowell residents who took the time to stand up and speak out for our neighbors. Your voices matter, and I’m proud to stand alongside you.
 
I’m committed to continuing this fight and bringing all the support our immigrant communities deserve.
March 26 The Massachusetts Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs celebrated its 22nd annual Advocacy Day! My office was happy to meet with JuanCarlos and Stacy from the Greater Lowell Boys & Girls Club to discuss the progress of the ongoing Teen Center construction project, and the Club's positive impact on young people's lives.
Upcoming Events
SAVE THE DATE: The Annual Khmer New Year is back in town. You are cordially invited to our 3rd celebration of Khmer New Year that will be held on April 5th, 2025, at UTEC from 6:00 pm to midnight. 
 
All proceeds from this event will be donated to the Southeast Asian Water Festival and Angkor Dance Troupe. We hope you can join us to ring the year together.
 
There will be food, music, and dance!! The ticket is $60 per person, and only $35 per student. Please reserve your tickets using the button below!
Join CMAA, the City of Lowell, Lowell Community Charter Public School and Lowell Public Schools in raising the Cambodian flag in recognition of the Cambodian community in Greater Lowell.
Join CMAA's annual Khmer New Year Parade! The parade will begin at CMAA, and end at Clemente Park, followed by performances, live bands, and popular Cambodian games hosted by the Clemente Park Committee
Proleung Khmer (Khmer Soul): A 50-year Journey of Remembrance and Resilience
Proleung Khmer is fiscally sponsored by the Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association (CMAA) a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
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24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02133


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