May 29, 2025
If you’ve been following REquipment, Inc. on social media, you are probably aware that it’s been another nail-biter budget season for the program with the state legislature.
The House budget bill released on April 31st did not include our $500,000 earmark that keeps the program whole, and Rep. Domb’s amendment to restore the funds was not adopted, despite achieving 31 co-sponsors.
Then, on May 7th, the Senate budget proposal also failed to include the $500,000 earmark for REquipment Inc.
The pressure mounted. Unless the Senate passed an amendment adding back REquipment Inc.’s $500,000, it would be the end of the road for the reuse program as we know it. It is unclear how REquipment can move forward without the $500K that supports staff, drivers, vans, and equipment.
On May 12th, however, Senator Michael Brady sponsored Amendment 568, and with another advocacy push from REquipment program champions across the state, Amendment 568 passed on May 20th.
Hoo-ray! This means REquipment is still in the running.
If you made a call, sent an email, and especially if you are a state senator who signed on to co-sponsor Amendment 568, thank you.
And if you are a constituent of a Senate sponsor or co-sponsor of Amendment 568, please take a moment to call their office and express your gratitude. They are: Senators Michael Brady, Rebecca Rausch, Paul Mark, Bruce Tarr, Jacob Oliveira, James Eldridge, Pavel Payano, Dylan Fernandes, Patrick O’Connor, and John Velis. (Find their contact information here: Legislators)
These calls and emails matter. Your advocacy makes the difference in whether valuable, durable medical equipment and assistive technology will continue to be available without insurance hoops or hurdles in Massachusetts.
And the impact of your efforts is undeniable.
On the day the Senate budget proposal was released, REquipment received satisfaction surveys from 15 consumers spread across the state, and nearly all took the time to write a note of thanks.
“What a fantastic program. We can’t wait to give back.” – Charlestown, MA
“The process was easy and helped my family get a transfer wheelchair for my brother. I would highly recommend this [..]” – Sharon, MA
“Loved your service” – Springfield, MA
“very grateful” – Hyde Park, MA
“You are AMAZING! Thank you so much for the work you do.[…]” – Norwood, MA
“Excellent service. Received wheelchair for my daughter faster than expected. Great condition. Thank you.” – Brockton, MA
“The people who helped me get equipment for my mother were kind, courteous, and attentive to her needs.” – Greenfield, MA
“I was so appreciative that I was able to get this wheelchair that was much safer for my Dad.” – Marlborough, MA
“This is a wonderful service and I am so grateful!” – Arlington, MA
“Someone named Elijah went above and beyond,” – Williamsburgh, MA
“Brian the delivery driver was excellent and extremely friendly and helpful.” – Granville, MA
“You are the best, and I’m so glad my daughter told me about you. I have been on your page weekly to see if you have something I need or others I know” – Framingham, MA
[All of these, and more, were received by the program on May 7th, 2025.]
You did this. Your device and dollar donations. Your referrals. Your advocacy. The members of the REquipment community are looking out for one another.
Stay tuned. The budget’s next stop is with the Conference Committee. This is where the differences between the House and Senate proposals are hammered out. Expect more information from us in the coming days.
Thank you for everything you do!
