(Boston) On Wednesday, June 18th, members of the Elders Climate Action (ECA) Massachusetts Chapter rallied in the State House for a lobby day in support of numerous climate-related bills. Between meetings with legislators, climate advocates gathered at noon at the Grand Staircase. There, they were greeted by Representative Joan Meschino (D-Hull), Representative Dan Sena (D-Acton), and Representative Steven Owens (D-Watertown), who shared remarks offering insight, encouragement, and appreciation for their advocacy efforts. In light of federal challenges to environmental efforts and the increasingly urgent need to strive for net zero emissions, Representative Meschino highlighted the importance of grassroots advocacy and local action.

“We need your advocacy to stay the course and propel the climate movement forward,” Representative Meschino (D-Hull) told ECA members. “Sometimes, legislators must be reminded about the importance of our path to a safe, carbon-free future. It is people like you who can step up, be the wind in our sails, and remind us of why this work is needed. Keep pushing, keep showing up, and don’t let the legislature forget about the importance of climate advocacy.”

ECA, a group of volunteer elder activists mobilized to actively combat climate change, has maintained an undeniable presence at the State House for nearly a decade. By cultivating a network of connections with legislators, environmental justice communities, and other activists, the ECA aims to influence policy that would help protect the well-being of future generations. In the 2025-’26 legislative session, their priorities include building decarbonization, gas systems regulation, nature-based solutions, and cleaner transportation infrastructure. 

Among the bills endorsed by the ECA, three have been filed by Representative Meschino related to drought management (H.1003) the creation of a climate bank (H.3937), and the decarbonization of buildings (H.3529). Representing three coastal municipalities on the front lines of climate change, Representative Meschino recognizes the importance of taking prudent action to mitigate and prevent the climate crisis and ensuing environmental damage. 

H.1003 calls for a coordinated response to drought conditions by providing a more consistent and proactive approach across municipalities. 

H.3937 dovetails with one of Rep. Meschino’s common reminders: “the solution to climate change is economic.” The bill establishes the Massachusetts Climate Bank as an independent public authority to finance and support climate and clean energy initiatives, positioning Massachusetts as a leader in climate financing.

H.3529 provides a plan for the state to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from new construction and existing buildings by empowering municipal leadership and ensuring access for overburdened communities.

Representative Meschino concluded the day by hosting an engaging meeting with ECA members, where they discussed ways to move bills forward. ECA members come from various backgrounds, concerns, and areas of expertise, bringing diverse perspectives on how to meet the moment and advance effective climate legislation. 

State Representative Joan Meschino represents the communities of Hingham, Hull, and Cohasset. Rep. Meschino and her Legislative Aides can be reached at the State House at 617-722-2092 or by email at Joan.Meschino@MAHouse.gov. To learn more about Rep. Meschino’s constituent services and legislative work, please visit www.JoanMeschino.com. 

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