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FRONTLINE

The Suicide Plan


WATCH ONLINE
An examination of the shadowy world of assisted suicide, featuring interviews with individuals who are opting to end their lives and those who, despite being at risk for prosecution, are helping them.

Government

House Passes 'Three-Strikes' Bill


Defense lawyers are criticizing the controversial measure, saying the bill is unusual in that it removes "any judicial discretion in sentencing."
Government

Governor Responds to Parking Record Controversy


By Sarah Birnbaum
A fight is being waged on Beacon Hill over a newspaper’s request to keep tabs on the comings and goings of lawmakers — and the controversy has provoked additional press criticism of Gov. Deval Patrick.
Gambling

Lawmakers Fear Wampanoag Casino Delay


By Sarah Birnbaum
At a public hearing on the compact that Gov. Deval Patrick signed with Mashpee Wampanoag tribal leaders, southeastern representatives expressed concern that the project could be frozen for years. 
Government

This Week in State Politics: A Race Against the Deadline


By Sarah Birnbaum
With the formal session deadline approaching, lawmakers hold a public hearing on the governor's casino agreement, officials consider the price of placing calls from prison and the June job numbers get released.
Government

The Governor's Difficult Budget Season


By Cristina Quinn
Gov. Deval Patrick started out confident when he signing a new Massachusetts state budget. But as the days went by, he was handed one defeat after another by a Legislature that said, "Wait a minute."
Gambling

Governor, Tribe Sign Agreement for Taunton Casino


By Sarah Birnbaum
The deal grants the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe the exclusive right to operate a casino in the southeastern part of the state. It's the most concrete development yet in the race to establish casinos in Massachusetts.
Courts, Crime & Police

Rep. Henriquez's Accuser Breaks Silence


By Adam Reilly
The woman accusing Dorchester state representative Carlos Henriquez of domestic assault and kidnapping has spoken out for the first time.
Government

House Votes to Override Governor on Three Key Issues


By Sarah Birnbaum & Cristina Quinn
Massachusetts House lawmakers have pushed back against Gov. Deval Patrick on welfare restrictions, mental health and immigration checks, overriding Patrick's line-item vetoes in the fiscal year 2013 budget.
Mental Health

Two Perspectives on Treating Mental Illness


SHOULD WE CLOSE TAUNTON STATE?
By Cristina Quinn
The debate over the Taunton State Hospital reveals a deeper philosophical debate on helping people with psychiatric disabilities. We talk to a parent who supports keeping the hospital open and an advocate for community services.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

The Big Dig: $23 Billion and Counting


THE TOLL ON THE MBTA
By Sarah Birnbaum
At a State House hearing, transportation officials said the total cost of the Big Dig is continuing to grow, starving the state of funds for other road and bridge projects.
Mental Health

Should We Close Taunton State Hospital?


By Cristina Quinn
A nurse at Taunton State Hospital argues for why the inpatient mental health facility matters — even though Gov. Deval Patrick used a budget line-item veto to relocate those services to Worcester.
Government

Analyzing the State's New Budget


By Bob Seay
On Beacon Hill, there's legislative pushback on the state's new budget. Soon after Gov. Deval Patrick vetoed funding for the aging Taunton State Hospital, lawmakers lined up calling for an override.
WGBH Local News

Governor Signs Price Scanner Law


By Jordan Weinstein
What's a better way to inform consumers of an item's price: the old-fashioned sticker or the modern scanner? Some advocates are objecting to the new law, which lets retailers rely on technology instead of putting stickers on every single item.
People & Profiles

Barney Frank, Ready to Wed


By Jesse Mayfield-Sheehan & The Takeaway
News reports are speculating that the Massachusetts congressman's wedding will take place on July 7. During the lead-up, Frank talked about the stress of wedding planning and how to ruin a good party.
Health Care

Dukakis on Health Care Reform


COMPLETE WGBH COVERAGE
By Bob Seay
Former Gov. Michael Dukakis thought the result at the high court was positive but saw challenges ahead in the struggle to fix the U.S. health care system.
Health Care

'Obamacare' Decision to Have Limited Impact on Commonwealth


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: HEALTH CARE ON TRIAL
By Sarah Birnbaum
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to rule on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act. But if it's struck down, the practical ramifications in Massachusetts may be relatively small.
Health Care

Customers to Get $57M in Health Insurance Rebates


By Sarah Birnbaum & Wires
Massachusetts health insurance plans will have to cough up almost $57 million in rebates to customers. On average, individuals will receive just over $200 and businesses will receive $936.  
Immigration

On Beacon Hill, a Reaction to Arizona


REVIEW THE ARGUMENTS: HEALTH CARE ON TRIAL
By Sarah Birnbaum
Gov. Deval Patrick praised the U.S. Supreme Court for striking down key provisions of Arizona's crackdown on immigrants. But he wasn't entirely satisfied — and neither were some of his critics.
Education

Want to Go to UMass? Get in the Lab


By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts high school students will soon be required to take at least 3 years of lab-based science classes to get into the state's 4-year public universities. 
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

Mass. Senate Passes MBTA 'Bailout' Bill


By Sarah Birnbaum
The bill passed after officials rejected a bid by five senators to replace the MBTA's current governing board with a new one.
Government

This Week in State Politics: Biotech and Bailout


By Sarah Birnbaum
Officials join scientists at the BIO International Convention and the House and Senate take up transportation spending bills. 
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

Demand Could Outpace Supply on the T


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: THE MBTA
By Jordan Weinstein
A report from a land-use think tank warns that by the end of the decade, Boston’s subways could grow so packed that trains would roll past waiting commuters, unable to accommodate more riders.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

House Passes MBTA Bailout Bill


MORE ON MBTA FUNDING
By Sarah Birnbaum
The state House of Representatives passed a bill giving the MBTA nearly $50 million from a fund that was intended to help reduce air pollution. The vote was 130-25.
Economy

Revenues Rise, but Governor's Budget Stays Cautious


By Sarah Birnbaum
A national survey of governors' budgets shows the state's tax revenues are finally projected to hit pre-recession levels. But Gov. Deval Patrick is still taking a tight-fisted approach to budgeting.
Government

'Swear Jar' Law Draws Reactions Far and Wide


By Cristina Quinn
An ordinance banning "unsavory language" in public means you'll have to shut your mouth or open your wallet. People all over are talking about it; a First Amendment advocate and the woman behind the law respond.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

Politicians Demand Transportation Funding


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: THE MBTA
By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts officials, local mayors and advocates rallied at Boston’s South Station for a solution to the state's transportation funding crisis.  
Government

This Week in State Politics: Transit and Catherine Greig


By Sarah Birnbaum
Hundreds rally to draw attention to Massachusetts' ailing roads, bridges and mass transit systems; Whitey Bulger's girlfriend heads to court for sentencing; lawmakers debate a one-time bailout of the MBTA and Gov. Deval Patrick resumes his busy travel schedule.
Transportation & Infrastructure

Big Dig Needs $1M Repair


By Sarah Birnbaum
More trouble with Big Dig infrastructure: State transportation officials said crews need to replace crumbling concrete that was supposed to last 30 years — and the fix could cost $1 million.
Education

Governor Objects to UMass Tuition Increase


By Sarah Birnbaum
University of Massachusetts trustees have approved a nearly 5 percent tuition and fee increase for undergraduates. Says the governor, "It's a crummy time to ask students to pay more."
Government

This Week in State Politics: Health Care and Casinos


By Sarah Birnbaum
The state House of Representatives begins debate on a landmark health care cost containment bill and Taunton residents weigh in on the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe's plans to build a casino in the city.
Local Politics

This Week in State Politics: Storms and the Senate


By Sarah Birnbaum
This week in Massachusetts state politics, the casino oversight board meets, officials commemorate the Western Massachusetts tornadoes and Springfield hosts the Democratic state convention.
Immigration

Before a License, an Immigration Check?


By Sarah Birnbaum
The Massachusetts Senate is expected to debate a controversial amendment to the state budget that would require the Registry of Motor Vehicles to check for proof of lawful immigration status before issuing driver's licenses.
Business

State Opens Investigation into Facebook IPO


By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts’ top securities regulator has subpoenaed Morgan Stanley related to allegations that it misled most shareholders about the value of Facebook's IPO.
Health Care

'Safety-Net' Hospitals Awarded Federal Funds


By Sarah Birnbaum
The federal government has approved the use of $628 million to implement cost-saving reforms at seven Massachusetts hospitals that treat many of the state’s poorest residents.
Courts, Crime & Police

AG Moves to Close Drunk-Driving Loophole


By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts lawmakers are trying to change a part of the state's drunk driving law that advocates say could let thousands of drunk drivers get back on the road sooner than expected.
Health Care

On Island, Health Care Coverage Gaps Are Common


By Sean Corcoran
Nantucket is getting ready for summer — a busy time not just for vacationers but for the island's labor force. But there's a serious side to island living, especially for those residents who aren't employed all year round: a gap in health insurance coverage.
Government

This Week in State Politics: On TV and in D.C.


By Sarah Birnbaum
Gov. Deval Patrick welcomes cable industry executives and celebrities to Boston, Lt. Gov. Tim Murray travels to the Pentagon and the state House and Senate debate spending and jobs.
Government

After a Tragedy, Life Jackets at Camp


By Sarah Birnbaum
A grieving father is calling for legislation at the Massachusetts State House aimed at preventing child drownings.
Economy

State Unemployment Hits Lowest Level Since 2008


By Cristina Quinn
Figures show the Massachusetts jobless rate dipped to 6.3 percent in April, down from 6.5 percent in March.
Social Issues

A Law to Help Struggling Homeowners


By Sarah Birnbaum
The Mass. House has passed a bill aimed at preventing unnecessary foreclosures by requiring loan modifications when it is in the financial interest of the borrower and the lender.
Business

Facebook, Phone Home!


By Kristina Finn & Danielle Dreilinger
With the big IPO in the headlines, Mass. House Speaker Robert DeLeo put together his own sales pitch: to convince Mark Zuckerberg to move back to the Bay State.
Government

State Senate Opens Debate on Health Care Costs


GOV. PATRICK WEIGHS IN
By Sarah Birnbaum
The bill would control the cost of health care in Massachusetts. But is it necessary — or too much?
Government

Governor Sets Requirements for Health Care Bill


STATE SENATE OPENS DEBATE ON BILL
By Sarah Birnbaum
Deval Patrick weighed in for the first time since the state House and Senate unveiled competing versions of bills to rein in health care spending, listing four elements a final bill must have.
Government

Lawmakers Support Universities and Infrastructure


By Sarah Birnbaum
Mass. House leaders unveiled plans on Monday to boost the budget for universities and local infrastructure programs as part of an omnibus economic development bill. 
Government

Attorney General Calls for Change to Open Meeting Law


THE STATE INTEGRITY INITIATIVE
By Danielle Dreilinger
The attorney general's move comes as no surprise to those who have followed the State Integrity Investigation, a nationwide look at corruption risk.
Government

This Week on Beacon Hill: Love and Money


By Sarah Birnbaum
The budget process moves forward, the Mass. Senate tries to cut health care costs and the state marks 8 years of legal same-sex marriage.
Election 2012

The Democratic Core in Election 2012


By WGBH News
Latinos, African Americans, millennials, gay voters — all were key supporters in Obama's run for the White House in 2008. But will they come out in force in November? WGBH News and NPR bring you their views and voices.
Health Care

State Senate Targets Health Care Costs


By Sarah Birnbaum
With health care spending growing at least twice as fast as the overall economy, state Senate leaders released a proposal on Wednesday to drastically rein in the costs. The Mass. House released a similar measure last week.
Gambling

Gaming Official Turns Down Job


By Adam Reilly & Sarah Birnbaum
Gov. Deval Patrick said he hoped the resignation of Carl Stanley McGee would let the new state Gaming Commission proceed with its work.
Economy

Paul Krugman Talks Solutions on Greater Boston


KRUGMAN ON THE FORUM NETWORK
By Jared Bowen
Forget "recession," forget "downturn." We're in a depression, Nobel-winning economist Paul Krugman says — and he thinks he knows how to fix it.
Education

What's the Best Fix for Community Colleges?


By Abbie Ruzicka
Community college advocates say the system's been neglected in the face of booming enrollment. But they differ about what the colleges need in order to provide a strong education and job training in the 21st century.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

MBTA Chief Mulls Your Ideas


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: THE MBTA
By Bob Seay
Could the state take back the Big Dig debt? Could the MBTA expand service? Richard Davey, secretary of MassDOT, responds to WGBH listeners' ideas.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

Former Transportation Chief: The T's Troubles


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: THE MBTA
Fred Salvucci headed the state transportation department under two administrations. He talked to WGBH's Bob Seay about his take on the MBTA.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

Should Massport Help the T?


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: THE MBTA
By Bob Seay & WGBH News
Former state transportation secretary Fred Salvucci says there's one dramatic and simple fix for the MBTA's debt: Have Massport pick it up. Here's the agency's response and your thoughts on the Big Dig debt.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

The MBTA Answers Your Questions


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: THE MBTA
By WGBH News
Talk to the top, we said — and you did. Hear what MBTA general manager Jonathan Davis had to say in response to your calls and survey responses.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

MBTA Riders Disrupt Budget Debate


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: THE MBTA
By Jordan Weinstein
Mass. House officers closed down public access to the chambers after a group of seniors and people with disabilities interrupted proceedings to protest MBTA fare hikes.
Health

From Fat Boston to Fit Boston?


By Adam Reilly
Mayor Tom Menino is introducing an ambitious program to get residents to collectively drop 1 million pounds in the next year. But will it fly?
Government

Commission Targets Corporate Tax Incentives


By Sarah Birnbaum
A bipartisan commission has unanimously approved recommendations to track and assess the performance of business tax breaks.
Government

Budget Season on Beacon Hill This Week


By Sarah Birnbaum
The Mass. House of Representatives is considering a $32.3 billion spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1.
Economy

MIT Aerospace Center Could Save Hanscom Jobs


By Sarah Birnbaum
MIT is proposing a multi-million-dollar new research facility at Hanscom Air Force Base at a time when state officials are worried Pentagon cutbacks could mean steep job losses.
Government

Beacon Hill Examines Municipal Unemployment System


By Sarah Birnbaum
City and town leaders pleaded with state lawmakers to fix the municipal unemployment system, saying that questionable claims are draining town budgets.
Gambling

The Lottery: Who Wins, Who Loses?


EMILY ROONEY: THE LOTTERY
By WGBH News
Massachusetts has one of the most successful lotteries in the country. But as the lottery turns 40 this week, not everyone is celebrating.
Gambling

Gambling Commission Looks for Expert Guidance


By Sarah Birnbaum
The newly formed gambling oversight board is holding a conference to learn about what will be a multi-billion-dollar addition to the state's economy.
Government

Proposed Budget at Odds with Governor's Plan


By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo unveiled a $32.3 billion state budget that would deal a blow to some of Gov. Deval Patrick's major policy initiatives.
Social Issues

'Death with Dignity': One Family's Story


By Adam Reilly
This fall, Bay State voters will likely be asked to weigh in on the so-called Death with Dignity Act. Heather Clish’s father ended his life in Oregon using a similar law. She shared her family's experience with Greater Boston.
Government

At the State House: Legalizing Medical Marijuana


By Sarah Birnbaum
There is evidence that Massachusetts residents support legalizing marijuana for medical uses. But at a public hearing on a proposed ballot initiative on the issue, Beacon Hill was decidedly lukewarm.
Transportation & Infrastructure

Lawmakers Consider T Bailout Bill


By Sarah Birnbaum
The debate over how to close the MBTA’s huge deficit is in lawmakers' hands now. 
Government

This Week on Beacon Hill: Budget Season


By Sarah Birnbaum
Immigration advocates rally, transportation officials testify on a bill transferring funds to the MBTA and the Massachusetts House unveils its budget for fiscal year 2013.
Energy

Power's Out? You Might Get Paid


By Sarah Birnbaum
The state Senate unanimously passed a measure that would compensate ratepayers for prolonged power outages.
Transportation & Infrastructure

MBTA Board Passes Unpopular Fare Hike


By Sarah Birnbaum
The board that oversees the Mass. Bay Transportation Authority voted 4-1 in favor of fare increases and modest service cuts as the crowd of 200-plus riders shouted "shame on you."
Courts, Crime & Police

Cahill Defends Himself Outside Courthouse


IS THE PUBLIC FED UP?
By Adam Reilly
Former state Treasurer Tim Cahill pleaded not guilty to charges that he used public funds to advance his own career. 
Transportation & Infrastructure

T Riders Make Last Push to Influence Board


BOARD PASSES FARE HIKE
By WGBH News & Wires
In the final hours leading up to a key Mass. Bay Transportation Authority board meeting, protesters gathered to decry a fare hike plan.
Government

Governor Blames GOP for Gridlock in Congress


By Sarah Birnbaum
Gov. Deval Patrick criticized congressional Republicans Tuesday, saying they're blocking President Barack Obama’s efforts to fix the economy.
Government

Is the Public Fed Up with Politics as Usual?


FORMER TREASURER INDICTED
By Adam Reilly & WGBH News
After Tim Cahill's indictment on corruption charges for lottery ads, politicians are saying everyone does it — and some observers say that's the problem. Also: What's your grade for corruption in Massachusetts?

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