HOUSING

With temperatures expected to be in the teens and single digits this week and snow expected tonight, several emergency shelters have been put in place in western Massachusetts.

The speech was eight pages long and touched on everything from the economy to the housing crisis in Massachusetts.

"I believe these changes are appropriate and needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the state shelter system," she said.

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey is starting to roll out some specifics from her forthcoming fiscal year 2026 budget, announcing Monday that it will include a provision to do away with renter-paid broker's fees.

Mass. lawmakers are planning for a 2.2% increase in tax revenue to spend in the fiscal year 2026 budget. There is uncertainty beyond that.

Geraldine McCafferty, director of housing for the city of Springfield, said there are a few overflow sites where people can go to seek shelter in the city.

Financial assistance is available to households in Hampden County who make too much money to qualify for low-income heat assistance, and need a utility bill paid.

Today on The Rundown with Carrie Saldo, panelists discuss why wildfire severity has increased in western Massachusetts, how a long-closed landfill in Windsor can teach lessons on climate resiliency, how some cases of alleged deed fraud are mysteriously linked to a Florida prison, and much more.

The grant will fund a clinician at Springfield District Court, who will help to connect those who are homeless and charged with a low-level crime find substance use treatment.

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