BOSTON (WWLP) - Fifteen organizations spanning from Somerville to Springfield sent top lawmakers a letter urging them to pass their joint rules package as quickly as possible and carry on with more meaningful work. At the beginning of every two year session, lawmakers work on establishing their j oint rules, and this year, they say they will focus on government transparency and access for the public. UMass medical students advocate at the State House As March draws to a close, however, a group of progressive organizations said in a letter to lawmakers that they have concerns about their lack of progress thus far. The letter was penned by Act on Mass, a progressive group, and their Executive Director says it reflects the wants of residents of the Commonwealth. "As Massachusetts residents who are afraid of a lot of what's going on, we can't wait until 2026 to see a state response," said Executive Director Scotia Hille. Several local organizations signed on as well, including Springfield No One Leaves. They say some of the proposed rule changes would represent significant progress for western Massachusetts residents. "Many times bills will go to a committee to die," said Organizing Director Tim Benoit. "Representatives will only be given a day to read a bill, or the public only has short notice to give comment at the State House, which has always cut western Mass. out of state politics and representation." Usually, lawmakers have their rules done by mid-February, but as of now, there is no public timeline for this year's votes. Local News Headlines Eversource, Arbor Day Foundation to provide free trees to Springfield customers Governor Healey appoints new member to Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Western Massachusetts organizations push for joint rules deal This local nonprofit is looking to buy Beaver Brook Golf Course for recreation and conservation WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less