by 
Massachusetts State Representative | 3rd Essex District (Haverhill)
Panelist | The Future of Cities
Rep. Andy X. Vargas stands tall as a dynamic force for change and progress within Massachusetts politics. Andy’s story begins with a historic milestone when he was elected to the Haverhill City Council at the age of 22, becoming the city’s very first Latino elected official. From the very start of his career, he was a trailblazer, breaking barriers and paving the way for others to follow.
With a heart dedicated to the welfare of his community, Andy’s passion for education and economic development shines through in his roles as Vice-Chair of the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. A firm believer in the power of education to empower youth, he has made it his mission to mandate civics education for all public school students, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
But Andy’s dedication to education doesn’t stop there. He recognized the urgent need to address child hunger in Massachusetts schools, and as a result of his efforts, he successfully passed legislation providing universal free school meals for all students. This groundbreaking move not only alleviates the burden of hunger but also removes the stigma associated with meal assistance and boosts academic outcomes.
In the realm of housing and zoning, Andy’s vision has brought about a transformative change. With his leadership, he championed a housing and zoning code overhaul that mandates multifamily zoning in transit-oriented areas.
This visionary move will have a lasting impact on housing accessibility and affordability in the region.
He has also been at the forefront of the fight against gun violence, spearheading a groundbreaking program on gun violence prevention through a public health lens. This initiative, now backed by an annual $13 million grant, stands as a model for the nation in tackling this critical issue.
With an unwavering commitment to justice reform, Andy has played a pivotal role in modernizing the parole and criminal justice system. Chairing the Commission on Structural Racism in Parole, he laid the groundwork for transformative changes to ensure a fair and equitable system for all.
Recognizing the urgent need to combat the opioid crisis, Andy has also worked tirelessly to expand access to naloxone, a lifesaving drug that can reverse overdoses. His efforts in this area have undoubtedly saved countless lives, bringing hope and healing to families and communities impacted by addiction.
His passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of justice have touched the lives of countless individuals, making the world a better place one legislative victory at a time. As he continues his trajectory, there is no doubt that his leadership will shape the future of his community and inspire others to join the fight for a more just and equitable society.
