Description
The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) is a state agency within the Executive Office of Economic Development and is responsible for protecting consumers through advocacy and education. The Office of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that the businesses our agencies regulate treat all Massachusetts consumers fairly. The Division of Banks ("DOB"), Division of Insurance ("DOI"), Division of Occupational Licensure ("DOL"), Division of Standards ("DOS"), and Department of Telecommunications and Cable ("DTC") all fall under the OCABR umbrella and help us to fulfill our critical mission of building better businesses and smarter consumers.
OCABR as an regulatory agency also manages several statewide programs in accordance with applicable General Laws. These include the Home Improvement Contractor Programs, Lemon Law Arbitrator Program, Data Breach and the Massachusetts Do Not Call Program. OCABR is committed to creating and sustaining a work culture that is welcoming, inclusive, and mutually respectful to all its employees regardless of race, color, age, creed, religion, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran or disability status. We strive to reflect diversity in all facets and levels of our agency. OCABR values inclusiveness and diversity within their employee and management teams. Within our community we strive to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.
The OCABR is committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel respected, valued, and empowered to maximize their skills and talents to serve our citizens.
About the position\:
The Public Policy Specialist Co-op (PPS) is responsible for conducting research regarding emerging public policy questions in the area of consumer protection and business regulation and offering recommended paths to decision makers. The PPS Co-op will become well versed in a wide range of topics in consumer protection and business regulation and with the composition, construction, and responsibilities of OCABR and its constituent agencies. This role may be assigned or delegated at the discretion of leadership to units within the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations, the Division of Occupational Licensure, Division of Insurance, Division of Banks, Division of Standards, or the Department of Telecommunications and Cable for varied special projects or tasks.
.
Specific duties include\:
Preferred qualifications\:
Benefits of this co-op\:
We foster an environment of learning and empowerment. This is an opportunity to develop excellent communication skills, confidence and a professional demeanor through daily interaction with diverse industry stakeholders and consumers; acquisition of knowledge of consumer related rights and regulations in Massachusetts; and make a positive contribution to consumer education, enhance your research skills, and work in a collaborative, supportive, upbeat office environment where you are a valued member.
Pay\: $19/hour
The expectation is that this position may be, but is not guaranteed to be, eligible for a hybrid work schedule following an initial period of training on office policies and processes which will be in-person.
The Public Policy Specialist Co-op will work Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm with a 30-minute lunch break. All government holidays will be unpaid days off. This is 6-month co-op.
Office Location\: One Federal Street, Suite 720, Boston, MA 02110
Recent student feedback\:
"Working here was a great learning experience. It's a very fast paced job and you need to keep up with anything that happens in MA that might affect consumers. Everyone at the office was really helpful, and they all helped in any way possible if there was a question none of us at the phone could answer. This job was a surprisingly good one and I encourage anyone to apply for it."
"I learned more about diversity of backgrounds of consumers and improved my communication skills drastically. The amount of information given to us about laws was very helpful, our training made us confident with the things we were informing consumers on. Many of the problems they faced were things we could face in the future either it could be paying bills, rent, buying a car or even getting a business license."
"The relationship that I had with my supervisor was very pleasant. She was very warm and welcoming. She was very open to helping me with any problem I faced."
"I really enjoyed the work I was doing at OCABR and felt like I was doing worthwhile work and actively helping the organization."
"Customer service is applicable everywhere, and after spending 6 months speaking to the general public, I find that my communication skills have increased. Learning about how to compose oneself in an office setting should be applicable to my post-graduation experience as well, as I imagine that I'd be working in an office."
Job Function
Government – Policy and Legal
Location
Boston, Massachusetts United States
Workplace Type
Primarily on-site work, Hybrid
Compensation Currency Type
US Dollars (USD)
Compensation
$19/hour per hour
Hours Per Week
Full Time (32+ Hours Per Week)
Transportation
Accessible by public transportation
Description
The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) is a state agency within the Executive Office of Economic Development and is responsible for protecting consumers through advocacy and education. The Office of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that the businesses our agencies regulate treat all Massachusetts consumers fairly. The Division of Banks ("DOB"), Division of Insurance ("DOI"), Division of Occupational Licensure ("DOL"), Division of Standards ("DOS"), and Department of Telecommunications and Cable ("DTC") all fall under the OCABR umbrella and help us to fulfill our critical mission of building better businesses and smarter consumers.
OCABR as an regulatory agency also manages several statewide programs in accordance with applicable General Laws. These include the Home Improvement Contractor Programs, Lemon Law Arbitrator Program, Data Breach and the Massachusetts Do Not Call Program. OCABR is committed to creating and sustaining a work culture that is welcoming, inclusive, and mutually respectful to all its employees regardless of race, color, age, creed, religion, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran or disability status. We strive to reflect diversity in all facets and levels of our agency. OCABR values inclusiveness and diversity within their employee and management teams. Within our community we strive to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.
The OCABR is committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel respected, valued, and empowered to maximize their skills and talents to serve our citizens.
About the position\:
The Public Policy Specialist Co-op (PPS) is responsible for conducting research regarding emerging public policy questions in the area of consumer protection and business regulation and offering recommended paths to decision makers. The PPS Co-op will become well versed in a wide range of topics in consumer protection and business regulation and with the composition, construction, and responsibilities of OCABR and its constituent agencies. This role may be assigned or delegated at the discretion of leadership to units within the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations, the Division of Occupational Licensure, Division of Insurance, Division of Banks, Division of Standards, or the Department of Telecommunications and Cable for varied special projects or tasks.
.
Specific duties include\:
Preferred qualifications\:
Benefits of this co-op\:
We foster an environment of learning and empowerment. This is an opportunity to develop excellent communication skills, confidence and a professional demeanor through daily interaction with diverse industry stakeholders and consumers; acquisition of knowledge of consumer related rights and regulations in Massachusetts; and make a positive contribution to consumer education, enhance your research skills, and work in a collaborative, supportive, upbeat office environment where you are a valued member.
Pay\: $19/hour
The expectation is that this position may be, but is not guaranteed to be, eligible for a hybrid work schedule following an initial period of training on office policies and processes which will be in-person.
The Public Policy Specialist Co-op will work Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm with a 30-minute lunch break. All government holidays will be unpaid days off. This is 6-month co-op.
Office Location\: One Federal Street, Suite 720, Boston, MA 02110
Recent student feedback\:
"Working here was a great learning experience. It's a very fast paced job and you need to keep up with anything that happens in MA that might affect consumers. Everyone at the office was really helpful, and they all helped in any way possible if there was a question none of us at the phone could answer. This job was a surprisingly good one and I encourage anyone to apply for it."
"I learned more about diversity of backgrounds of consumers and improved my communication skills drastically. The amount of information given to us about laws was very helpful, our training made us confident with the things we were informing consumers on. Many of the problems they faced were things we could face in the future either it could be paying bills, rent, buying a car or even getting a business license."
"The relationship that I had with my supervisor was very pleasant. She was very warm and welcoming. She was very open to helping me with any problem I faced."
"I really enjoyed the work I was doing at OCABR and felt like I was doing worthwhile work and actively helping the organization."
"Customer service is applicable everywhere, and after spending 6 months speaking to the general public, I find that my communication skills have increased. Learning about how to compose oneself in an office setting should be applicable to my post-graduation experience as well, as I imagine that I'd be working in an office."
Job Function
Government – Policy and Legal
Location
Boston, Massachusetts United States
Workplace Type
Primarily on-site work, Hybrid
Compensation Currency Type
US Dollars (USD)
Compensation
$19/hour per hour
Hours Per Week
Full Time (32+ Hours Per Week)
Transportation
Accessible by public transportation
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Please see Preferred Qualifications.
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Please see Preferred Qualifications.
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
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System Requirements
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts runs state government operations to deliver public services and enforce laws for residents and communities. Government services are organized through agencies; residents interact with programs by applying for benefits, renewing licenses, or accessing records, and services are delivered via offices, websites, and call centers. It differs from private firms because it uses public funds to serve all residents and is guided by public policy and transparency rather than profits. Its goal is to improve residents’ lives by delivering reliable services and implementing public actions that respond to people’s needs.
Company Size
10,001+
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Boston, Massachusetts
Founded
1788
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West-East Rail gets $130M federal boost for track, signal upgrades. By Alison Kuznitz | State House News Service October 19, 2026 A long-envisioned passenger rail project connecting western Massachusetts to Boston has secured a $130 million federal funding jolt, Gov. Maura Healey's office announced Friday. Healey said the money, which will support the Springfield Hub Modernization Project, is a "major win for Western Massachusetts and a big step forward for West-East Rail." The project involves upgrading tracks, signals and other infrastructure, with the aim of addressing rail bottlenecks, reducing conflicts between freight and passenger trains, and creating capacity for future passenger rail service. The work will also benefit Amtrak Vermonter and Valley Flyer passengers with improved on-time performance, reduced delays and scheduling flexibility, Healey's office said. "Building West-East rail is a once-in a-lifetime investment to connect Massachusetts' communities and our regional economies like never before," U.S. Sen. Ed Markey said in a statement. "It will mean lower costs, less congestion, and access to opportunity for families across the state." MassDOT received the funding through the Federal Railroad Administration's Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements grant program. Massachusetts secured $108 million from the same program in 2023. U.S. Rep. Richard Neal attributed the federal funding infusions to the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which former President Joe Biden signed into law. "In the five years since it was enacted, Massachusetts has received more than $280 million to turn the vision of West-East Rail into reality," Neal said. Invoking the federal resources and Healey's support, Neal declared that Massachusetts is "full steam ahead on a project that will transform regional mobility and economic opportunity in every corner of the Commonwealth." In another development for western Mass. train service, MassDOT and railroad company CSX struck an agreement recently to reduce conflicts between freight and passenger trains. MassDOT will fund construction of a siding and other track improvements around Pittsfield, plus study the feasibility of a new platform at Pittsfield Station. Alison Kuznitz is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts. Reach her at [email protected]. - Digital Partners -
Landlord and tenant - Manufactured housing - Fair market rental rate. Superior Court/Business Litigation Session Where the commonwealth has alleged that the defendant owners of a manufactured housing community violated G.L.c. 93A by offering leases at greater than fair market rental rates in violation of G.L.c. 140, §32P, and 940 CMR §10.03(5), a motion to dismiss the complaint should be denied because there is no legal impediment to the commonwealth enforcing the Manufactured Housing Act's requirement that the defendants charge a fair market rental rate based on an evaluation and consideration of site-specific conditions. "The Commonwealth filed suit against The Boavida Group, LP and others (together Defendants or Boavida) alleging that Boavida purchased Willow Terrace Mobile Home Park (Willow Terrace), a 73-lot manufactured housing community located in Taunton, and shortly thereafter increased monthly rent in violation of the Manufactured Housing Act, G.L. 140, §§32A-32S (the MHA or the Act) and its governing regulations, 940 Code Mass. Regs. (CMR) §10.00, et seq. (the Regulations). On November 18, 2025, I issued a preliminary injunction barring Boavida from charging any Willow Terrace resident rent over $385 per month until January 1, 2028 or entry of judgment, and barring Boavida from commencing any proceeding against a tenant for failing to pay more than $385 per month in rent. "Thereafter, with the assent of the Defendants, the Commonwealth filed a First Amended Complaint (the FAC) asserting a single new count - Count V - which is the subject of the instant Motion to Dismiss (the Motion). After hearing and review, the Motion is denied... "The newly asserted Count V alleges that Defendants violated G.L.c. 93A, §2 by offering leases at greater than fair market rental rates in violation of G.L.c. 140, §32P and 940 CMR §10.03(5)... "Defendants make two arguments: First, that the Commonwealth is not authorized under the Act or Regulations to challenge a park owner's rental amount; and second, that the FAC fails to state a claim that the rents are not fair market rates. Neither argument persuades. "The gravamen of Defendants' first argument is that the [Attorney General's Office (AGO)] may not challenge a park owner's determination of fair market rent by alleging the rate fails to account for specific amenities and conditions at the community. Put elsewise, Defendants argue the AGO is not authorized to enforce the Act's 'fair market rental rate' requirement based on the Commonwealth's 'view of purported park conditions.' Defendants misapprehend the AGO's role in enforcing the Act as well as the applicable regulation governing fair market rental value... "Based on my own evaluation of the Act and Regulations, I find nothing in either that would prohibit the Commonwealth from proceeding with Count V... "I conclude there is no legal impediment to the Commonwealth enforcing the Act's requirement that Defendants charge a fair market rental rate based on an evaluation and consideration of site specific conditions... "For the foregoing reasons, Defendants' Motion to Dismiss Count V of the First Amended Complaint is denied." Commonwealth v. The Boavida Group, LP, et al. (Lawyers Weekly No. 09-093-26) (7 pages) (Squires-Lee, J.) (Suffolk Superior Court) (Civil Action No. 2584CV02493-BLS2) (August 2026).
MassDOT approves $200M for 20 MBTA commuter locomotives. Home " News " People " MassDOT approves $200M for 20 MBTA commuter locomotives. MassDOT approved $200 million to buy 20 hybrid and diesel locomotives for the MBTA commuter rail fleet in Boston under its state capital investment plan. October 10, 2026 12:09 pm | Last Update: October 10, 2026 12:10 pm In Brief: The Massachusetts Department of Transportation approved $200 million within a $600 million state capital package to acquire 20 battery-catenary and diesel-electric locomotives for the MBTA commuter rail network. BOSTON, UNITED STATES - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation board approved a $600 million statewide transport financing package, allocating $200 million directly to modernize the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority commuter rail fleet. Authorized under Chapter 90 legislation within the FY 2026-2030 Capital Investment Plan signed by Governor Maura Healey, the funding supports the procurement of 20 cleaner locomotives. The capital investment targets the systematic retirement of the transit agency's oldest active operating units. How is the funding structured? The $200 million allocation represents one-third of a broader $600 million multi-modal infrastructure allocation administered under the state's five-year capital program. Administered via the MBTA Rail Reliability Program, the capital directs funding into two distinct rolling stock categories: 10 new diesel-electric locomotives and 10 battery/catenary hybrid locomotives. The dual-technology split enables emission-free operations under overhead wires and battery power on non-electrified segments, alongside lower-emission diesel power for longer regional routes. Specific delivery schedules and unit contract prices were not disclosed by state officials during the board vote. Ship by Rail Discover more Book Train Trips Compare Couriers Plan Vacations Key funding data. | Parameter | Value | | Fund / Programme Name | MBTA Rail Reliability Program (FY 2026-2030 CIP) | | Total Value | $200 million ($600 million total statewide package) | | Parties Involved | MassDOT, Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) | | Timeline / Completion | Fiscal Years 2026-2030 | | Country / Corridor | United States / Greater Boston Commuter Rail Network | How does this Compare to similar funding programs? State-backed rolling stock recapitalization programs in the United States increasingly prioritize hybrid fleet transitions over pure diesel replacements to address urban emissions regulations. While peers like Chicago's CTA prioritize corridor infrastructure upgrades such as the Blue Line Forest Park Branch, and Texas agency Trinity Metro allocates capital to double-tracking projects (Source: Fort Worth Report, 2026), MassDOT's capital focuses directly on hybrid traction assets. The investment coincides with expansion across the global rail infrastructure market, which reached USD 101.11 billion in 2025 and is projected to expand to USD 126.54 billion by 2030 at a 4.59% compound annual growth rate (Source: Mordor Intelligence, 2025). Independent verification of the competitive tender schedule for the 20 MBTA locomotives was not available at time of publication. Discover more Ship by Rail Editor's analysis. MassDOT's split procurement structure demonstrates a capital-efficient transition strategy that avoids the high upfront expense of full-corridor electrification. By acquiring battery/catenary locomotives alongside standard diesel-electric traction, the MBTA can capture immediate air quality benefits in dense terminal districts without waiting for overhead wires to be strung across outer branches. This dual-track approach matches wider shifts across the railway systems market, which was valued at USD 31.1 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 50.0 billion by 2036 (Source: Future Market Insights, 2025). Faq. Q: What equipment will the MBTA acquire with the $200 million allocation? A: The MBTA will purchase 10 modern diesel-electric locomotives and 10 battery/catenary hybrid locomotives under its Rail Reliability Program. These 20 vehicles will replace the oldest, most breakdown-prone locomotives on the Boston regional rail system. Q: When will the 20 new locomotives enter active service? A: Delivery milestones and production schedules have not been officially confirmed by MassDOT. The project falls within the Commonwealth's Capital Investment Plan spanning fiscal years 2026 through 2030. Q: How do battery/catenary locomotives function on the MBTA network? A: Battery/catenary locomotives draw power from overhead wires where infrastructure exists and switch to onboard battery reserves on non-electrified track segments. This configuration eliminates diesel exhaust in urban terminals and reduces overall operating noise along suburban branch lines. Discover more Book Train Trips Plan Vacations Compare Couriers Railway infrastructure, rolling stock and transport technologies specialist focused on global rail industry developments, high-speed rail systems, signaling technologies and freight transportation. Covering railway investments, public transport modernization, rail operations and international mobility projects across Europe, Asia and North America. Ship by Rail
Conway embankments slated for repairs. Shelburne Falls Road erosion exacerbated by 2023 flooding CONWAY - Residents may see repairs to failing embankments along Shelburne Falls Road as the town seeks funding for the long-awaited project. According to Town Administrator Véronique Blanchard and Selectboard Chair Christopher Waldo, erosion, worsened by flooding in 2023, has severely damaged three key embankments supporting Shelburne Falls Road. Waldo described the failing embankments as a "huge issue" in town. "The floods of 2023 really exacerbated the problem," Blanchard said in a phone interview on Tuesday. Blanchard envisions nature-based solutions stabilizing the failing embankments to mitigate future erosion. To fund the project, the town plans to use its $75,000 earmark from the state's fiscal year 2026 supplemental budget that state Sen. Paul Mark secured. Considering the high price tag for the project, Blanchard worked with the Franklin Regional Council of Governments to secure an additional $50,500 through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's Local Early-stage and Actionable Planning (LEAP) Program, which assists city and town governments with the early designing and planning for projects related to transportation and infrastructure. As part of the LEAP Program, MassDOT recommended the town work with Bowman Consulting Group Ltd. on the design engineering, leading the Selectboard to sign a contract with the company on Monday night. Blanchard stressed that the LEAP Program has made the project possible for a small community like Conway. "I'm absolutely thrilled with MassDOT and how much they've been helping FRCOG," she said after the Selectboard meeting. Down the line, Blanchard hopes to enroll the project in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), a multi-year program that helps city and town governments earn federal funding for transportation improvement projects. With designing, planning and funding still to come, the timeline for when work on stabilizing the embankments will begin is uncertain. "It's a long process," Blanchard said. "This is the first step to get us moving on that."
Massachusetts has selected Impruvon's Electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) platform as its statewide solution for medication management across healthcare settings. The platform has achieved full compliance with the Commonwealth's Medication Administration Program standards. The state-funded system is now available at no cost to all MAP providers, covering software access, training, and support. The platform was developed through collaboration with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services and constituent agencies including the Department of Public Health, Department of Mental Health, and Department of Developmental Services. Impruvon specialises in medication management technology for intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioural health, and home and community-based services settings. The company aims to reduce medication errors and administrative burden whilst improving health outcomes.