House Speaker Ron Mariano told reporters Wednesday that he feels “hopeful that something happens in Washington” to “tighten the immigration system” and ease the burden on states like Massachusetts.
Gov. Maura Healey has turned to 76 hotels and motels to bulk up the number of beds available under the state’s emergency shelter program. Dozens of contracts with social service organizations show nights at those sites can often run up to $300, a cost that includes food and supportive services.