Massachusetts Senate attendance records for the 2025 session have been released, revealing that 34 out of 39 senators achieved a perfect attendance rate. The findings come from a report by Beacon Hill Roll Call, which detailed that the Senate has conducted a total of 116 roll calls as of December 5, 2025.
The attendance records reflect the number of roll calls each senator participated in, calculated as a percentage of total roll calls held. Under current Senate rules, senators may vote remotely if they are not physically present in the chamber, eliminating the need to justify their absence.
While the majority of senators maintained a 100% attendance record, a few stood out for their absences. Sen. Lydia Edwards (D-Boston) missed the highest number of roll calls, with 23 absences, resulting in an attendance rate of 80.1%. Edwards did not respond to multiple inquiries regarding her absence.
In addition to Edwards, four other senators missed one or more votes. Sen. John Velis (D-Westfield) missed 20 roll calls due to his active-duty deployment with the Massachusetts National Guard at the southern border. His office confirmed that this deployment prevented him from attending two formal Senate sessions in November.
Senators Mike Barrett (D-Lexington) and Adam Gomez (D-Springfield) missed two and one roll calls, respectively, achieving attendance rates of 98.2% and 99.1%. Both senators also did not provide reasons for their absences when contacted.
Traditionally, the Senate president votes infrequently, a practice maintained by current Senate President Karen Spilka. She participated in 30 out of the 116 roll calls, yielding a voting rate of 25.8%.
Senatorial Attendance Summary
The following list illustrates the roll call attendance records of local senators as reported through December 5, 2025. The percentage indicates the votes cast by each senator relative to the total roll calls, while the number in parentheses reflects missed votes:
– Sen. Michael Barrett: 98.2% (2)
– Sen. John Cronin: 100% (0)
– Sen. James Eldridge: 100% (0)
– Sen. Barry Finegold: 100% (0)
– Sen. Cindy Friedman: 100% (0)
– Sen. Bruce Tarr: 100% (0)
This attendance report highlights the commitment of most senators to participate actively in legislative duties, despite the challenges some face. The data serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and representation in the legislative process.
In other developments, the Massachusetts government announced significant legislative actions aimed at improving public welfare and safety. These include the release of federal funds for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, new protections for transit workers, and proposed measures to address homelessness and improve education resources.
Governor Maura Healey recently signed legislation that extends protections to all public transit workers, ensuring they are safeguarded from assault while performing their duties. This law includes provisions for those employed by private contractors, enhancing safety across the public transit system.
Additionally, the House has given initial approval to a bill prohibiting “hostile architecture” that targets the homeless, a move towards addressing the growing issue of homelessness in urban areas. Advocates emphasize the need for humane solutions rather than exclusionary practices.
As the legislative session progresses, these developments underscore the ongoing efforts by Massachusetts lawmakers to address pressing social issues and improve the quality of life for all residents. The attendance records, alongside legislative actions, reflect a commitment to transparency and accountability within the state government.
