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Tag: State policy

Featured Tag: State policy

Policy Updates – 10/22/2026

DHS indefinitely extended TPS for Ukraine and Sudan on Monday; those with protections will retain status for the time being. TPS for these countries was set to expire on October 19, but the agency declined to announce any decision on the future of over 100,000 people impacted, only saying that an announcement “will be made … Continued

Advancing Policy Solutions for Immigrant Mental Health

Immigrant and refugee families in Massachusetts are carrying an enormous weight. Increased enforcement, the loss of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for many families, including many with children who are U.S. citizens, and constant federal policy shifts are taking a real toll on mental health. Meanwhile, people seeking help face long wait times, language gaps, insurance … Continued

TPS for Ukraine and Sudan still valid

TPS for Ukraine and Sudan still valid Temporary Protected Status (TPS) protections are still in effect for TPS holders from Ukraine and Sudan. The TPS designation for Ukraine and Sudan was set to expire on October 19, 2026. However, the Trump Administration has not announced whether the designation will be terminated or extended. Until further … Continued
A Powerful Day on Beacon Hill: Community, Courage, and a Call for Action

A Powerful Day on Beacon Hill: Community, Courage, and a Call for Action

Blog

On Tuesday, November 25th, hundreds of advocates, community leaders, and impacted residents filled the Massachusetts State House for a day that showcased the strength, unity, and clarity of purpose behind the Protecting Massachusetts Communities (PMC) campaign. From an energizing pre-hearing rally to two packed public hearings, Massachusetts sent a powerful message: our communities are united … Continued

The Massachusetts State Legislative Session Has Paused. What Now?

The Massachusetts State Legislative Session Has Paused – What Now?

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What Is the August Recess—and Why Does It Matter for You? Each August, members of the Massachusetts Legislature take a break from the formal lawmaking process on Beacon Hill and return to their home districts. This month-long “August recess” isn’t just a vacation—it’s a time for legislators to reconnect with their communities. They attend local … Continued

Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition

Protecting Our Immigrant Communities Campaign Celebrates Expanded Legal Aid for Immigrants

News

Press ReleaseFor Immediate ReleaseJuly 4, 2025 FY26 state budget includes $5 million to provide immigrants at risk of deportation with legal counsel BOSTON – The Protecting Our Immigrant Communities (POIC) campaign is celebrating the passage of $5 million in the FY26 state budget to help provide legal representation to immigrants at risk of deportation.  “Today, Massachusetts … Continued

MA house and senate take a stand for immigrants

MA House and Senate Take a Stand for Immigrants

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This week, the Massachusetts legislature took aim against federal attacks on our immigrant communities. The House passed an annual budget that included $5M to fund legal representation for low-income immigrants facing deportation proceedings – a first in Massachusetts! This critical House funding initiative lays the groundwork for a statewide immigrant legal defense program proposed in … Continued

Governor Healey, Speaker Mariano Celebrate Immigrant and Refugee Rights at 27th Annual Immigrants Day at the State House

News

State leaders joined policymakers and advocates at the MIRA Coalition’s yearly event, celebrating new beginnings for immigrants and refugees across the Commonwealth Boston, MA – Governor Maura Healey and Speaker Ron Mariano, as well as state legislators and immigrants rights advocates, joined the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition to celebrate recent expansions of immigrant … Continued

STATEMENT: MIRA Coalition Issues Statement on Proposed Housing and Educational Support for Recent Arrivals

News

Boston, MA – In response to Governor Healey’s supplemental budget bill filing to support recent arrivals, Elizabeth Sweet, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition issued the following statement:   “We applaud Governor Healey for swiftly proposing $85 million to provide emergency housing and education support for the rapidly growing number of international arrivals coming … Continued

MEDIA ADVISORY: State Legislators, Advocates to Hold Press Conference in Support of Legislation Expanding Non-English Language State Resources

News

Boston, MA – A coalition of policymakers, immigrant rights advocates, and directly-impacted individuals will host a press conference next Wednesday to advocate for the expansion of non-English language resources in the state’s public-facing state agencies: a move that would empower hundreds of thousands of limited English proficient speakers in Massachusetts. Policymakers and advocates will use … Continued

STATEMENT: MIRA Coalition Issues Statement on Proposed Funding Increase for Immigrant and Refugee Support

News

  Boston, MA – In response to Governor Baker’s recent $139 million supplemental funding bill filing to support immigrant and refugee arrivals, Elizabeth Sweet, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition issued the following statement:   “We are grateful that the Baker administration is seeking to set aside $130 million in funding to bolster access to emergency … Continued