GOOD NEWS: The State Senate is poised to pass an important bill to protect immigrant communities in Massachusetts, including by restricting civil arrests in state courts, child care facilities, public schools, houses of worship, and health care providers. The Arc worked with Senator Robyn Kennedy to file an amendment to include DDS-licensed and MassHealth Day Habilitation facilities in this list of protected spaces — and the amendment passed!
This amendment came out of the concerns and anxiety raised by families about ICE targeting immigrant members of our workforce. While it is crucial to note that all members of our workforce are legally authorized to work in this country, we also know that immigrants across the country have been targeted indiscriminately. Many in our provider community are prepared for what could happen — but this amendment gives them added tools and support. It also provides individuals and families with the security of an added layer of protection. Most importantly, it protects a key segment of our workforce and members of our communities while they are at work.
Thank you to Senator Kennedy for seeing the vital need of this amendment and working so hard with us to pass it. Thank you to Senate President Spilka and Ways and Means Chair Rodrigues for your leadership.
It is clear given the 700+ responses to our action alert – within less than 48 hours – that this is an important issue to our community. Thank you all!
