Author: Paisley Huang
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Bill aims to secure community health workers amid job insecurity
In Worcester, community health workers provide critical care and trust — while facing an uncertain future. A woman who regularly visits the Family Health Center of Worcester continues to suffer from hypertension. Her blood pressure fluctuates dangerously, and she struggles…
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State bill seeks earlier detection of kids’ vision problems
The bill, proposed by Sen. Michael Moore of Millbury would expand the current requirement for a recent eye exam for children entering kindergarten to those entering preschool. When a child is unable to follow the teacher’s instructions or actively participate…
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Proposed law could require minimum gratuity during busy seasons
Jared Forman, owner of Deadhorse Hill Restaurant in Worcester, said the bill is adding more complications by only allowing restaurants to charge a service fee during peak seasons As the holiday season approaches, restaurants expect to see large crowds celebrating…
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AI ‘friends’ may expose kids to dangerous content, study warns
AI toys pose new challenges that parents and caregivers may not be prepared for, according to Darlene Belliveau, director of Children’s Services at the Central Mass YWCA in Worcester. Miko, the bright blue robot, shows a yawning face on its…
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For state’s homeless, a new bill could make IDs easier to obtain
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Robyn Kennedy and Rep. James O’Day of Worcester will waive the $25 fee for homeless applicants and reduce their burden to obtain proof of residency. It has been about two years since Avi Manning lost…
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Proposed bill aims to ban rodenticides for wildlife, pet safety
“The need to run to a toxic chemical shouldn’t be the first choice,” said Sen. Michael Moore of Millbury Lethal pesticides targeting rodents are also killing wildlife and pets through secondary exposure. A statewide effort aims to phase them out. …
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Lawmakers push to restrict migrants’ eligibility for shelters
Access to emergency shelters would be restricted under a proposal by Sens. Peter Durant, R-Spencer, and Ryan Fattman, R-Webster. As winter approaches and more families might struggle to put a roof over their heads, Central Massachusetts legislators have proposed restrictions…