Our Impact
When Common Cause Massachusetts takes action, we make a real difference for democracy. See the history of our major wins over the last 50 years.
With the support of our dedicated members, we have shown up time and time again to protect Bay Staters’ rights. We will continue to make our government here in Massachusetts more open, honest, and accountable. Check out some of our most impactful victories:
Hear from Common Cause members....
Passing the VOTES Act
In 2023, we led a historic effort to pass the VOTES Act — the largest expansion of voting access in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in years. This law made several permanent changes to Massachusetts’ election laws, including: allowing voters to vote by mail without an excuse, expanding early voting options, making sure that eligible voters who are incarcerated are able to request a mail ballot and vote, and more.
Securing No-Cost Calls for Incarcerated People
In 2023, Massachusetts became the fifth state to make prison phone calls free statewide — and the first to include provisions for free calls from county jails — after a successful campaign by Common Cause Massachusetts and the No-Cost Calls Coalition. Ensuring free phone calls guarantees better access for incarcerated people who wish to engage in their government, stay connected to their community, and become informed voters.