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Hello Everyone,
As May unfolds, I’m reminded of how change often begins quietly—through conversations at kitchen tables, ideas shared in classrooms, and the steady work of neighbors who care deeply about where we’re headed.
This month, I’ve continued listening, learning, and working alongside people who are building solutions with heart and persistence. Whether it’s students speaking up about education, families navigating housing challenges, or local organizations tackling food insecurity, I see the same thread: when we root our work in community, progress becomes possible.
There’s a lot happening at the State House —budget season, policy reviews, and work of advocating for our district’s needs. My commitment is to carry your stories and concerns into every one of those conversations.
May is a time of growth, and that is what this moment calls for: not just planting seeds, but tending to them together so that real change can take root.
Let’s keep showing up—for each other, and for the future we believe in.
Tara T. Hong
State Representative
18th Middlesex District
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This month, my team and I will be out and about in the district visiting local businesses, listening to their concerns, and working to find meaningful ways to offer support from the state side.
We will be touring the district June 16 - 20. Please come say hello if you see us!
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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
To stay updated on when are the hearing and learn more please visit my website:
www.reptarahong.com
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- 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
- HD.4593 - An Act authorizing the city of Lowell to contract for the provision of transportation of homeless students
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If there are any other bills you'd like me to support, please contact my office.
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The Massachusetts House has just passed its $61.5 billion FY 2026 budget — and I’m proud to share that it includes $75,000 in direct funding for the 18th Middlesex District.
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This bill was shaped by many conversations with members of our community. The goal of this bill is to close the digital divide for low-income seniors by providing financial support for internet access, and expanding free Wi-Fi in senior community centers and living facilities.
Everyone deserves to stay connected—no matter their age or income. |
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May 10 I had the privilege of attending the AAPI Commission Unity Dinner.
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May 13 I had the honor of joining the City of Lowell, veterans, families, and community members at the Ladd and Whitney Monument to place flags in memory of our fallen soldiers.
Each flag represents every brave service member from Lowell who gave their life defending our country since the Revolutionary War. It's a powerful message of community support to the families of these fallen heroes that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
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May 22 What an honor to join the first annual Military Appreciation Day at the State House. It was a privilege to nominate Andeth Vann—a dedicated community leader, a proud veteran and a Lowell Police officer—in recognition of her service and sacrifice. Thank you to all who have served and continue to serve. Your courage and commitment inspire us all. |
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May 24 The House passed the FY25 supplemental budget. This bill fills urgent needs in our communities—including funding for child care, housing, and especially the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), which so many in the 18th Middlesex District rely on for fresh, local food. Now, the bill heads to the Senate. |
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May 27 The Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses held its first hearing. We heard testimony from state agencies, advocates, and community organizations regarding their observations on the status of small businesses across the Commonwealth.
Congratulations to Rep. Andy X. Vargas on your chairmanship of the Joint Committee on Community and Small Businesses. The Committee hears information and legislation related to the needs of our small businesses and how to best support them. I am glad and honored to be a part of the Committee, and I forward to the work we will do. |
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Local Business Recognition |
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May 21 I stopped by Heng Heng Asian Fast Food to offer a citation in recognition of their continued contribution to the local economy. Located in Lowell’s Cambodiatown, Heng Heng Asian Fast Food offers authentic and delicious Southeast Asian dishes that are ready to go right away! If you would like to try some amazing food and support one of our community’s small businesses, stop by Heng Heng Asian Fast food at 32 Branch Street #4, Lowell.
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On Saturday, June 7th come join the Pride festivities!
There will be a Pride flag raising at Lowell City Hall at 12 pm, and then the Pride Festival taking place from 1 pm - 4 pm at DCR Lowell Heritage State Park (160 Pawtucket Boulevard).
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The Lowell Health Department is seeking community input to address the opioid epidemic and determine how Lowell's share of the funds will be used. Your feedback is crucial in shaping how these funds will be utilized, and we thank you for your valuable time and input!
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It will be an exciting week of STEM MashUp, Architecture, Gamemakers, Crime Science, Battlebots, and Harvard MedScience. Thank you to Project Learn and UMASS Lowell for sponsoring this year's Idea Camp.
Any questions, email padams@lowell.k12.ma.us.
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The City of Lowell's Economic Development office is conducting a short survey for businesses that make and sell physical products - like home goods, packaged food, or handmade items.Our goal is to better support these businesses with opportunities and resources to start and grow.
Please share with any Lowell-based product businesses you know!
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Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth Mental Health: Strategies for Parents & Caregivers: A Virtual Event Thursday June 5th, 7-8pmHow can you show up best for your LGBTQ+ child or teen?Join Cartwheel and guest speaker Dr. Jessica Fish for a free live webinar which will provide strategies on how to foster meaningful connection and show support in ways that are authentic to you, while being affirming to your child or teen and their experience.This virtual event is part of Cartwheel's free webinar series for parents, caregivers, and school staff.
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Come visit us at a stop near you! Click here to see the Bookmobile schedule of stops. All stops are highlighted in pink: https://buff.ly/qRpsqqg |
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