The Latest News
Governor Maura Healey Signs into Law ‘An Act Regarding Free Expression’
‘An Act Regarding Free Expression’ protects librarians and educators from harassment for doing their jobs, affirms students’ right to read, and protects authors, creators, booksellers, and publishers from economic harm due to book bans and censorship
Urgent Call to Action
It’s time to email your representatives again! The legislative year ends on July 31, which means time is running out to protect the freedom to read in Massachusetts. We urge you to ask them to support H.3594 right now!
Mass Freedom to Read Advocacy Day Press Briefing
On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, the Mass Freedom to Read coalition gathered at the State House in Boston to advocate for H.3594, An Act Regarding Free Expression. Coalition volunteers met with legislators, hosted a book fair highlighting books by MA authors and publishers that have been banned, and held a press briefing.
Mass Freedom to Read Advocacy Day is March 10, 2026
On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, educators, librarians, authors, students, publishers, booksellers, and civil rights advocates from across Massachusetts will gather at the State House in Boston and online for the Mass Freedom to Read Advocacy Day.
‘An Act Regarding Free Expression/S.2696’ Passes in the Senate!
In a victory for free speech, the Massachusetts Senate passed "An Act Regarding Free Expression/S.2696" this week on Thursday 11/13/25. The bill protects the right to access books across Massachusetts, safeguards librarians and educators from harassment for doing their jobs, and protects authors, creators, booksellers, and publishers from economic harm due to censorship.
New Update and Call To Action
We are excited to share the news that several senators have filed amendments that, if passed, will significantly strengthen the bill. The Mass Freedom to Read coalition has been working hard to push for three key improvements. Please contact your senator and urge them to strengthen the bill by voting for the improvements in Amendments 1, 4, 5, 6, and 18 before Wednesday, Nov. 12!
Announcing Mass Freedom To Read
Mass Freedom to Read is a new coalition that represents Massachusetts parents and readers, authors and creators, libraries, booksellers, and publishers. We believe that freedom of expression, including the freedom to read, is a fundamental American right, protected by the First Amendment.