Volume 3, Issue 7 | January 1, 2021
Happy New Year Everyone!

Well 2020 certainly was quite a year. The pandemic disrupted our daily lives and we have all endured a lot. Still we have much to be grateful for. Our communities are resilient and residents eagerly stepped forward to support each other in big and small ways. As 2020 comes to a close, the tremendous community spirit that shone through the pall of the pandemic continues to radiate brightly.

Looking ahead, 2021 is full of promise. The Legislature will be sworn into office this Wednesday January 6 and the new Session will begin. We look forward to continuing to work with local elected officials and civic volunteers in the coming year. As always, constituent services are our top priority.

Our best wishes to all of you for a happy and healthy New Year!

Very truly yours, Joan Meschino
PUBLIC HEALTH UPDATES
Further COVID-19 Restrictions as of 12/26
As we embark on the new year, we must be mindful of the ongoing pandemic. The new vaccines will take time to be distributed widely. In the coming months, it is urgent that we remain vigilant and continue to practice social distancing, wash hands, and wear a mask.

As of Saturday, 12/26, the Administration implemented additional COVID-19 restrictions to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth, including new capacity and gathering limits. These measures will remain in effect until noon on January 10, 2021. In summary, the restrictions:
  • Place a 25% capacity limit on most industries;
  • Limit indoor gatherings to 10 people and outdoor gatherings to 25 people; and
  • Postpone or cancel all nonessential inpatient elective invasive procedures.

Read a summary of the restrictions here.

Read the emergency order here.
Administration Announces $668 Million Small Business Relief Package
On December 23, the Administration launched a $668 million program to provide financial assistance to Massachusetts small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Grants will be made available to eligible small businesses through the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC).

Established in the fall, the Small Business Grant Program has a pool of eligible applicants awaiting funding. Eligible businesses that already applied to the program, but were not funded due to limited funds, will be prioritized and do not need to reapply.

The funds will also be used to stand up an additional grant program at MGCC to target the industries most hard-hit during the pandemic. The online application portal opened on Thursday, December 31, and will close on Friday, January 15. Awards are expected to be announced in early February.

More details on how to apply and eligibility requirements are available at www.empoweringsmallbusiness.org.
COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard Released
On December 29, the Administration launched a COVID-19 vaccine dashboard to update the public on vaccine distribution and progress every Thursday by 5 p.m. Updates will include information on vaccine supply distribution, administration, and other data. The new dashboard can be found on the mass.gov/CovidVaccine website.
Holiday Safety Guidance
In the midst of the holiday season, residents are urged to follow public health guidance to help keep themselves and their loved ones safe. This year the Administration is asking residents to:
  • Limit in-person celebrations to household members only
  • Postpone or cancel travel this holiday season. If you do choose to travel, be aware of and comply with Massachusetts travel order requirements.
  • Follow the current state gathering size limits.
IN THE DISTRICT
We Saved Our Transit!
This fall, our community came together in opposition to the originally proposed service cuts from the MBTA. Through your hard work and grassroots activism, we managed to maintain service on both our 714 bus line and our Hingham/Hull ferry. At the same time, we ensured that there would not be disproportionate cuts to the Greenbush line as compared to other commuter rail services. We proved that when we come together, we can make the changes our community needs.
I Was Re-Elected!
On November 3rd, I was re-elected as State Representative for the 3rd Plymouth District. I am honored to have the privilege to continue to serve our community.

I look forward to January 6th, when I will be sworn in to a third term and can begin work on a new slate of legislative priorities. As always, constituent services will be my top priority.

Thank you for your continued support. I look forward to working with you all in the coming term.
We Continued Holding Office Hours Virtually!

We continue to hold office hours via Zoom! Please call the office at 617-722-2320 or email to reserve a time slot in the new year:

  • Monday, January 25, 4-5 PM

To learn more about our constituent services, please visit our website.
Important Links and Resources

  • MEMA has developed an interactive map showing the locations of COVID-19 testing sites around the Commonwealth.


  • HandholdMA.org website for parents of school-aged children in Massachusetts concerned about their child's mental health.


  • Massachusetts residents can seek COVID-19 testing through the Stop the Spread Initiative which provides free testing in high-priority locations.

  • DESE's report on the number of positive COVID-19 cases in schools.



  • SafeLink 24/7 Crisis Hotline for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: 877-785-2020.

Stay Informed
Visit your town websites to learn the most recent information, local services, and guidance from our municipal officials.

State Resources

Federal Resources
Constituent Questions | 617-722-2320 | Office Contact Information
Contact my Campaign Team | Volunteer! | Donate

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