On April 11, 2024, Governor Maura Healey highlighted the significance of the MASS Leads Act during a visit to Boston Metal in Woburn, Massachusetts. The meeting focused on the state's commitment to climate technology and innovation, emphasizing the role these sectors play in economic development and job creation.
Governor Healey described the MASS Leads Act as a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening Massachusetts' leadership in innovation across various sectors. She noted that the act will invest in climate technology, life sciences, and applied artificial intelligence, reinforcing the state's position as a leader in these fields. "There is no state better positioned to lead when it comes to climate tech and innovation than Massachusetts," she stated, citing the state's robust research capabilities, venture funding, and skilled workforce.
Secretary of Economic Development Yvonne Hough also spoke at the event, expressing pride in the collaborative efforts of local legislators, investors, and companies like Boston Metal. She highlighted the impressive advancements made by Boston Metal, which has developed a steel production technology that reduces emissions by 99% compared to traditional methods. Hough emphasized the importance of continued investment in such innovations to maintain Massachusetts' competitive edge against other states and countries.
The MASS Leads Act proposes a $1 billion investment in climate technology, aimed at supporting companies like Boston Metal to expand and thrive within the state. Hough underscored the urgency of this initiative, stating, "This is not the time or place for us to kind of just rest and hang out." She called for strong legislative support to ensure the act's passage, reinforcing the state's commitment to addressing significant challenges such as climate change while creating job opportunities.
The meeting concluded with a shared vision of Massachusetts as a leader in climate innovation, with both Healey and Hough expressing optimism about the future of the state's economy and its role in global efforts to combat climate change.