By: State Rep. Ryan Hamilton – 9-24
Serving as State Representative for the 15th Essex District continues to be an immense honor, and I am proud to highlight a series of legislative accomplishments from the 2024 session.
These accomplishments include improvements and commitments to education, healthcare, housing, veterans’ support, local governance, and sustainable infrastructure.
Education Initiatives: I have been and will continue to advocate for student mental health and support services. I co-sponsored House Bill 465, which establishes comprehensive school counseling programs, ensuring that students receive necessary mental health support.
Additionally, I introduced House Bill 494, which focused on providing mental health professionals in public schools.
These measures aim to create supportive and nurturing educational environments for all students, and I am hopeful for the differences these strides will make.
Healthcare and Public Health: I sponsored House Bill 172 in the healthcare sector, enhancing hospital care for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. Furthermore, my office introduced House Bill 3912, requiring automated external defibrillators in sporting facilities and stadiums, thereby improving emergency preparedness and potentially saving lives during critical moments. I am looking forward to the advancements these two bills will encourage.
Housing and Veterans’ Support: Addressing housing affordability and support for veterans, I pushed for House Bill 1320 to promote housing cooperatives, offering more affordable housing options for residents. I also worked on House Bill 2822, expanding property tax exemptions for veterans, recognizing their service, and easing their financial burdens.
Local Legislation for Methuen: Demonstrating my dedication to local governance, I proposed House Bill 2547 and House Bill 2548 address the reinstatement of positions according to seniority and adjust the maximum age requirement for police officers in Methuen, respectively. These bills are tailored to meet the specific needs of the Methuen community.
Local wins for Haverhill: I secured funding for Cogswell ArtSpace and Haverhill Inner City Boxing, amongst other significant improvements for the city.
Transportation and Infrastructure: In collaboration with Representative Vargas, I advocated for the electrification of the Haverhill line of the commuter rail system through House Bill 3459.
This initiative promotes environmentally friendly transportation options, reducing carbon emissions and improving the overall sustainability of the region’s infrastructure.
These legislative efforts reflect my unwavering commitment to the well-being and advancement of my constituents in the 15th Essex District. I will continue to work diligently to address the pressing issues facing the community and I look forward to furthering these initiatives in the sessions to come. ◊