The Massachusetts Senate session on May 1, 2025, featured a notable appearance by former Acting United States Secretary of Labor, Julie Hsu. The session highlighted her significant contributions to labor policies during her tenure in the Biden administration, which has been recognized as the most pro-labor federal administration in recent history.

During her time in office, Secretary Hsu played a crucial role in implementing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which has successfully put tens of thousands of union members to work. She also focused on modernizing outdated Department of Labor policies, resulting in improved overtime compensation for salaried employees and enhanced regulations to protect workers from misclassification.

Before her federal role, Hsu served as California's Labor Secretary, where she oversaw the implementation of a bill closely modeled after Massachusetts law. This legislation presumes that all workers are employees, ensuring they receive protections under wage, hour, and benefits laws. Her extensive experience includes nearly two decades as a nonprofit attorney advocating for low-wage and vulnerable workers, as well as her tenure as California Labor Commissioner from 2011 to 2018, where she was credited with innovative approaches to combat wage theft and protect immigrant workers.

The Senate welcomed Secretary Hsu warmly, acknowledging her impactful career and dedication to labor rights. Her presence underscored the ongoing commitment to advancing worker protections and labor rights at both state and national levels.