Another warm weekend is on the way, but first, let’s dive into some news from Massachusetts.
Food Funding Cuts
Massachusetts is feeling the impact of the Trump administration’s recent decision to cut $1 billion that was designated to help schools buy food from local farmers. Governor Maura Healey shared that about $12 million in funding is now lost to the state. This is a big blow not just to school programs but also to local farmers, who are likely to face tough times ahead.
Last fall, the Biden administration had promised a $1.13 billion boost to programs that supported schools and food banks in buying food from nearby producers. This initiative aimed to strengthen local food networks and reduce reliance on large food corporations. Simca Horwitz, co-director of Massachusetts Farm to School, noted that over 125 local farms and many school districts participated, making fresh and healthy food more accessible to kids. “It helped increase healthy food access for kids,” she said.
So, what led to the funding cuts? The Trump administration claims the program no longer aligns with the USDA’s priorities. This means that schools may now be forced to rely on larger farms from outside the state to keep food costs down. Ashley Randle, the state’s agricultural commissioner, called this change “devastating” for small farmers who had begun making investments based on these contracts.
The Bigger Picture
According to Karen Schwalbe from the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Association, this cut is just one part of a worrying trend for small farmers. Alongside potential cuts to other federal assistance and rising fertilizer prices due to trade tariffs, farmers are left in a state of uncertainty. “The uncertainty is probably the biggest factor for farmers right now,” she said.
Political Changes Ahead
In New Hampshire, Governor Jeanne Shaheen has announced she won’t run for re-election in 2026. This ends her impressive political career as the first woman to serve both as a state governor and a U.S. senator. Her exit may shake things up, as some speculate it could open a chance for both Democratic and Republican candidates in a state that often swings between the two parties.
Impact on Medical Research
Closer to home, the UMass Chan Medical School is facing challenges due to funding uncertainties from the Trump administration. They could potentially lose up to $50 million a year if caps on NIH research funding are realized. This has led to hiring freezes at UMass, along with similar actions at Harvard, MIT, and Boston University.
Electric Vehicle Changes
In Worcester, electric car drivers will soon have to pay for charging at public stations starting next month. The city plans to charge 30 cents per kilowatt hour, which is still about 25% cheaper than gas.
In lighter news, there’s a lunar eclipse occurring tonight. If you’re on the East Coast, you’ll need to stay up late or wake up early to catch this rare event.
These events not only shape local communities but also reflect broader trends and issues affecting many areas today.
Check out this related article: Boosting Chautauqua: Exciting Food Distribution Events Now in Full Swing!
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