City councilors from Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville are collaborating to shift the burden of broker fees from tenants to landlords, inspired by a recent decision in New York City. This initiative, driven by local councilors and activists like Bonnie Jin, aims to address the high costs of renting in Massachusetts, where tenants often pay broker fees despite landlords hiring the brokers. The councilors are filing hearing orders and home rule petitions to push for legislative changes at the state level. The move is part of a broader effort to make housing more affordable and equitable, with significant support from local officials and community members.

The Healey administration in Massachusetts is implementing significant changes to the family shelter system to reduce costs and phase out the use of hotels as shelters. The new system will direct families to either a Rapid Shelter Track or a Bridge Shelter Track, with the aim of providing more sustainable and independent housing solutions. The changes, which include extending temporary respite center stays and increasing rental assistance, are designed to address the needs of both migrant and resident families. The administration is also relocating family welcome centers and closing some temporary respite centers. These adjustments are part of a broader effort to manage the demand on the shelter system, which has been capped at 7,500 families.

The Healey administration in Massachusetts is implementing significant changes to the family shelter system to reduce costs and improve sustainability. The changes include phasing out hotels as shelters, introducing Rapid and Bridge Shelter Tracks, and increasing rental assistance through the HomeBASE program. These adjustments aim to better support families, particularly those with complex needs, and are part of efforts to manage the high demand for emergency shelters. The state has successfully maintained the number of families in the system at around 7,500, despite projections of higher numbers.

Boston remains one of the few major cities where renters are responsible for paying broker fees, a practice recently changed in New York City. The article discusses the implications of these fees, which can significantly increase the cost of moving into a new apartment. There is a push from various stakeholders, including housing planners and legislators, to shift the responsibility of these fees to landlords to improve housing affordability. However, concerns exist that landlords might pass these costs back to renters through higher rents. The article highlights the ongoing debate and potential legislative changes in Massachusetts, with support from entities like Zillow and local officials.

Haitian community leaders in Massachusetts express deep concern over escalating violence and political instability in Haiti, exacerbated by gang activities and the trafficking of firearms from the United States. The Federal Aviation Administration has suspended flights between the U.S. and Haiti following attacks on planes, while the U.S. government faces calls to halt deportations and provide humanitarian aid. The situation is further complicated by the removal of Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille and ongoing challenges faced by Haitian migrants seeking asylum in the U.S. Local leaders urge more decisive action from the U.S. government to address the crisis.

Following the stabbing of two correctional officers at Souza-Baranowski maximum-security prison, advocacy group Prisoners’ Legal Services claims that prisoners are facing collective punishment, including restricted access to education and programming, and harsh lockdown conditions. They have called for reforms in a letter to state officials, alleging that the Department of Correction's measures have increased tensions. The Department is reviewing these recommendations while implementing new security measures. The Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union has received legislative support for enhanced safety protocols. Advocates demand more transparency and accountability from the Department of Correction.

The article discusses the significant shift in Latino voter support towards Donald Trump in Massachusetts, highlighting a broader trend of Latino voters moving away from the Democratic Party. Despite Vice President Kamala Harris winning in majority Latino cities, her margins were significantly lower than previous Democratic candidates. The article explores reasons for this shift, including dissatisfaction with Democratic messaging and policies, and a preference for Republican values on issues like the economy and immigration. Key figures like Alberto Vasallo III and Nina Datshkovsky Ennis provide insights into Latino perspectives, emphasizing a desire for policies over personality and a perception of Trump's message as optimistic. The article also touches on the complexities within the Latino community regarding immigration and social services.

The Orange Line in Boston is now operating at full speed for the first time in 15 years, following the completion of a track improvement plan that eliminated all slow zones. State officials, including Governor Maura Healey, celebrated the achievement, highlighting the benefits for riders and the economy. The MBTA's efforts, led by General Manager Phil Eng, have resulted in increased train speeds and more frequent service, restoring public trust in the transit system. The nonprofit A Better City emphasized the long-term gains from the short-term disruptions caused by the improvements.

Massachusetts experienced a significant shift in Latino voters supporting Donald Trump, despite Vice President Kamala Harris winning in majority Latino cities. Experts suggest Democrats misread Latino priorities, focusing too much on Trump's rhetoric rather than issues like the economy and education. Latino support for Trump is attributed to perceptions of a broken economy and border insecurity. The article highlights a broader trend of Latino voters leaning towards conservatism, challenging the Democratic Party's traditional hold on this demographic.

The Boston Elections Department is under investigation by the Secretary of State, Bill Galvin, following ballot shortages at several polling locations, causing delays and voter frustration. Galvin criticized the department for poor management and lack of communication, while Boston City Councilors are calling for a review of election procedures. The Lawyers for Civil Rights group criticized Galvin for not extending voting hours. The investigation may lead to the appointment of a receiver for the next election.