Massachusetts governor, lawyer, and LGBTQ trailblazer
A surrogate has given birth to Gabriel in Dallas after a dispute over a termination request tied to a severe heart condition. California-based parents are the legal guardians, while the surrogate seeks parentage. Texas orders require life-saving care for Gabriel, with ongoing court battles looming.
The jury in Lindsay Clancy’s state murder trial has deadlocked 11-1, with prosecutors seeking first-degree murder and the defense citing postpartum psychosis. Lawyers say a retrial is possible; a pardon request has been floated but is legally limited to federal cases.
Massachusetts is tightening oversight of large data-center projects. Gov. Healey's executive order requires developers to source onsite clean power or fund nearby generation and to secure local community benefits before permitting. Applications for a data-center tax exemption are paused as regulators prepare to implement new rules.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has unveiled a plan to provide free nurse home visits for all families welcoming newborns and to tighten perinatal mental health screening. The move, inspired by the Lindsay Clancy case, aims to expand postpartum care, monitor maternal mental health, and screen for depression. The package includes funding for a pilot and updates to state regulations.
Massachusetts AG Andrea Campbell has released a comprehensive review of abuse in Fall River, Springfield and Worcester dioceses, revealing at least 275 clergy members accused of abusing 944 children. The report shows systemic failures and calls for reforms, with some cases referred to district attorneys and limited prosecutions due to statute of limitations.
Massachusetts city councilor Shawn Oliver, running mate to GOP gubernatorial hopeful Mike Minogue, has suspended his campaign after a DUI arrest following a late-night crash. Oliver is on restricted duty as investigators review the case; Minogue denounces the DUI and calls for accountability as the race nears the November election.
The families of Sandy Hook victims and gun-violence groups have filed friend-of-the-court briefs in two Supreme Court cases challenging assault-weapon bans in Connecticut and Cook County, Illinois. Justices are hearing oral arguments on December 2. Advocates warn that such rifles inflict catastrophic harm on children, while opponents argue bans infringe Second Amendment rights.