April Newsletter
- May 6
- 8 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Bringing Beacon Hill to You
State Senator John F. Keenan
Abington, Braintree, Hanover, Holbrook, Quincy, & Rockland
April Newsletter
In the District
I kicked off April with an official announcement, sharing my intent to run. A promise I lived up to through my participation in the recent Interfaith Social Services “Stop the Stigma” 5K run/walk.
The event had a great turnout, with runners, walkers (like me), and supporters of all ages joining together to raise awareness and stop the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use disorders.
Earlier in April, I was up the road for the topping-off ceremony of the new Squantum Elementary School in Quincy. I was especially honored to sign the beam that sits at the highest point of the building, joining the names of all the students attending the school.
Later in the month, some of those same students visited me and Representative Ayers at the State House. They asked thoughtful questions about the building’s history and engaged us in meaningful conversation about cell phones in schools and the impact of social media.
After their visit, I returned to my office and, by coincidence, spoke with a constituent on the same issue. I shared what I had heard from the students—many are concerned about how cell phones and social media are affecting their generation and limiting their ability to engage fully in school.
I am always grateful to hear first-hand from those directly impacted by the bills we debate in the State House, and to let their insights better inform my decisions.
In a region known for seafood, we have great, local options in the district I proudly represent. I presented Kara and Ray Kelley, owners of one of those great options - Waves Seafood in Braintree - with a citation recognizing their impact as community leaders and as nominees for the 2026 Black Excellence Award.
I attended the Eagle Court of Honor celebration for Celia Killion of Abington. Celia is a first-year student at Massachusetts Maritime Academy, where she continues her commitment to service as a member of the 7th Company Band, Honor Guard, and Drill Team. Her positivity is infectious, and I have no doubt that earning the rank of Eagle Scout is just one of many accolades to come.
Also in Abington, I joined the Select Board and Representative Sullivan-Almeida in recognizing Police Sergeant Stephen Marquardt for his heroism in saving a woman from likely death on the commuter rail tracks. His courage and quick thinking exemplify the best of public service.
I also welcomed Matthew DiScuillo to the Abington Fire Department and wished him great success as he begins his service to the community.
Abington hosted its annual Vietnam Veterans Ceremony, a meaningful event honoring the service and sacrifice of Vietnam Veterans. The inspirational commemoration received strong community support from the Abington High School Veterans Appreciation Club, United States Veterans Vietnam Era Post 2 SSG. Richard A. Fitts Chapter, and the American Legion – Lewis V. Dorsey Post 112.
Quincy held its Vietnam Veterans Day commemoration at the Clock Tower at Marina Bay, where the names of 50 soldiers from Quincy who lost their lives are inscribed. Moving words were offered by Lt. Col. James P. Walsh, a Vietnam War veteran and ex-prisoner of war.
I joined other elected leaders and Fire Chiefs from Abington, Hanover, and Rockland at the annual Plymouth County Fire Chiefs Association legislative brunch. It was a great opportunity to hear directly from regional fire service leaders on how we can work together to strengthen public safety and support the brave men and women who serve as firefighters.
International Symposium on Online Gambling
I am always looking for ways to expand my perspectives on issues affecting residents of the Commonwealth, which motivated me to attend and speak at an international symposium on public health and online gambling, hosted by the Public Health Advocacy Institute at Northeastern University.
At the event, researchers from around the world highlighted the addictive nature of sports betting apps, including the role of AI-driven algorithms designed to keep users engaged and to potentially alter brain chemistry. Others pointed to lessons from countries like the United Kingdom, where online sports betting has been legal since 2005, and the long-term challenges, including, but not limited to, the high number of suicides that have followed. Still others focused on the broader public health impact, including the effects on families and communities resulting from individuals struggling with a gambling disorder.
During the symposium, I spoke about the troubling parallels between the opioid crisis and the rapid rise of sports betting. U.S. Senator Blumenthal and U.S. Representative Tonko, who are working to advance stronger sports betting regulations nationwide, offered encouraging and insightful remarks.
A recording of the event is available here, I spoke around the five-hour mark. The entire program features insightful research and perspectives, and I would encourage anyone interested to watch any portion of the discussion. I hope to attend future events like this to continue learning and engaging on this important issue.
A Day in Boston
As a junior at North Quincy High School, I participated in Student Government Day at the State House, an experience that left a lasting impression on me.
This year at Student Government Day, Representative Gordon and I chaired a hearing on advancements in AI. The exceptional students shared thoughtful, original perspectives while speaking before hundreds of their peers.
I was so impressed and proud of the three students from the district who participated.
These many years after my own Student Government Day, I was thrilled to welcome Katherine Manning, this year's Representative from NQHS. Congrats to Katherine!
Braintree and Boston College High School were well represented at the State House during Student Government Day by KinJia Wong, who served the day as a State Senator. Congrats to KinJia, thanks for serving, and best wishes!
Dilynn Fox from Holbrook High had the honor to serve as Speaker of the House. I have gotten to know Dilynn through her many school activities, including her work with Holbrook's BizarBots Robotics team. I am excited to see what else she accomplishes after graduation. Holbrook students always amaze!
I have no doubt that, as I did, students from across the Commonwealth left Student Government Day with a heightened interest in public service.
Town Clerks from across Massachusetts came to the State House to meet with elected
officials, which I particularly appreciated because for the last two legislative sessions I have served as Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Election Laws. Town Clerks serve on the front lines of defending democracy by ensuring elections across the Commonwealth remain fair, free, and accessible. I appreciated the opportunity to kick off Town Clerks Day and later, meeting with clerks from both inside and outside my district. We chatted about how proposed policies may impact their work and what support they need to continue serving our communities effectively.
Remembering Two Dedicated Public Servants
The Legislature traditionally adjourns sessions to honor distinguished individuals who have served the Commonwealth with dedication and integrity. This month, the Senate, in separate sessions, adjourned in memory of Arthur H. Tobin and James A. “Jim” Sheets.
Arthur H. Tobin passed away on January 16, 2026, following a lifetime of exemplary public service. Over his career, he served the City of Quincy and the Commonwealth with distinction as a City Councilor and Council President, State Representative, State Senator, Mayor of Quincy, and Clerk-Magistrate at Quincy District Court.
Arthur was deeply devoted to his family. He took immense pride in supporting and spending time with his 20 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, celebrating their activities and achievements with great joy.
His legacy of service, leadership, and devotion to family continues to resonate throughout the community he so faithfully served. It was an honor to remember Arthur and his beloved wife Shirley.
James A. “Jim” Sheets passed away on January 15, 2026, also following a lifetime of dedicated public service.
Jim’s connection to Quincy began during his time as a student at Eastern Nazarene College, where he later returned as a professor. He also taught at Quincy College, serving as chairman of the History and Government Department and influencing the lives of countless students.
His commitment to public service extended into elected office, where he served as Ward 4 City Councilor, Council President, and for two terms as State Representative. In 1989, he was elected Mayor of Quincy and was re-elected five times, leading the city with integrity and compassion until January 2002. I had the honor of serving as Chief of Staff to Mayor Sheets. He was widely respected for his humility, kindness, and unwavering honesty.
Despite his many accomplishments, Jim’s greatest pride was his family. He cherished Sunday dinners, family vacations, and especially the joy he found in being a grandfather.
Jim Sheets leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, leadership, and deep devotion to both his community and his loved ones.
In the Senate
On April 9, the Senate approved a statewide supplemental budget plan that included $750,000 in education and transportation investments for communities across the Norfolk and Plymouth District. The House of Representatives had passed a similar bill, and the differences are being negotiated. If as expected the final bill includes the local investments, Abington will receive funding for school capital projects and new library furniture; Hanover will be able to use funds to do the design and engineering work needed to place utility wires underground in Hanover Center as part of the Route 139/Main Street/Center Street intersection reconstruction; the Holbrook Council on Aging will get a new van to transport seniors; Quincy Public Schools will receive funding to partner with Manet Community Health Center to provide primary care and behavioral health services for students and staff; and, Rockland will receive funds to renovate spaces at its middle and high schools for its career pathways program. A press release provides more detail on how the funding is allocated among the city and towns in the district. The senate version of the bill also includes an amendment I filed to advance a road improvement project along VFW Drive/Weymouth Street Corridor in Rockland from Union Street to the Hingham line.
Earlier in the month, the Senate passed the FARM Bill, comprehensive agricultural legislation designed to support the Commonwealth’s 7,000 farms, expand access to fresh and healthy food, and safeguard Massachusetts’ food supply.
The FARM Bill supports small farm owners by removing regulatory barriers and promoting agritourism opportunities, such as corn mazes and “pick-your-own” fruit and berry operations. It also encourages expansion through a local-option property tax exemption for new agricultural buildings.
Also in April, the Senate passed the Mass Ready Act, an environmental bond bill that invests in removing “forever chemicals” from drinking water, strengthening municipal resilience to floods and droughts, and expanding access to outdoor recreation through improved parks and trails.
To further protect the environment and reduce pollution, the legislation includes provisions to eliminate single-use plastic bags at retail checkout counters and takes additional steps to curb reliance on unnecessary plastics. The Senate adopted my amendment that prevents hotels from offering plastic containers under 9 ounces for products like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
These bills will go to the House of Representatives for its consideration.
The Senate also advanced joint cannabis reform legislation aimed at strengthening oversight, increasing accountability, supporting small businesses, and modernizing consumer regulations. I opposed this bill because it unnecessarily increases the amount of cannabis that individuals can legally possess. Governor Healey signed this bill into law on April 19, 2026.
Coming Soon: Senate Budget
With all the green returning to the landscape, I am reminded that the Senate will take up the biggest money bill of the legislative year, the budget, this month. I look forward to reporting on the debate in the next newsletter.
