ACCESSIBILITY RIGHTS

State lawmakers are supposed to only take up non-controversial matters during this informal session period.

The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor recreation has awarded nearly $165,000 to 17 groups in Massachusetts. The groups serve low-income residents, people of color, those living with disabilities and people from the LGBTQ+ community received state grants.

The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation is launching a group to evaluate the accessibility of hiking trails and make recommendations to expand and improve them.

A panel of Massachusetts educators and civil rights activists has issued recommendations for college campuses to promote access to higher education, particularly for students of color, LGBTQ+ students and low-income students. The report is in response to the 2023 Supreme Court ruling that bars the use of race in college admissions.

A bill that would evaluate access to trails on state land in Massachusetts, and make recommendations to increase access, did not get a vote in the formal legislative session.

We learn about how All Out Adventures is increasing access to the outdoors, learn about Northampton celebrated Britain's abolition of slavery in the 19th century with the latest Power of History segment, and Mr. Universe discusses the possibility of life on mars.

Today on The Rundown with Carrie Saldo, panelists discuss the growing need for local flood mitigation, the future of reliable regional broadband internet access, and how western Massachusetts can increase access to the outdoors.

Being active outside — biking, hiking or paddling — is a key part of life for many in western Massachusetts. For some people who have disabilities, outdoor recreation can be challenging, but also life-changing.

Massachusetts lawmakers are considering a bill that would maximize access to trails in state parks and forests for everyone, including people with disabilities.

There is a staffing shortage in western Massachusetts. Yet for some employers, people with disabilities are being overlooked as a potential solution.