STATE HOUSE — The state's political history being what it is, the Massachusetts Republican Party hopes to make modest electoral gains at the state level this year, favoring a targeted strategy rather than casting the kind of wide net that has blown up in its face before.
Despite Gov. Charlie Baker's soaring popularity and fundraising prowess, Republican candidates will challenge for just about 40 percent of House and Senate seats this fall. Party leaders say they want to maximize their resources and avoid being stretched too thin.
STATE HOUSE — Massachusetts shoppers would be able to buy craft beers and spirits at farmers markets — but not take those bottles or any other purchases home in a plastic bag — under a bill approved Thursday by the Senate.
An omnibus bill (S 2171) that passed the Senate on a 36-1 vote takes a variety of steps aimed at promoting agriculture in the state.
