What to know about the new pork rules in Massachusetts

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Today is unofficial callout sick day. Whether you’re sneaking in a trip to the beach before the rain returns this weekend or actually sick at home scrolling for more details about the new Boston-based reboot of “Frasier,” here’s what to know today:

Nearly seven years after Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly backed a ballot measure to require more space for farm animals raised for food, pigs are finally getting their day. Beginning today, pork products from pigs raised in gestation crates are prohibited in Massachusetts, as is the use of the tightly confining cages by local farms. The rules are taking effect despite a pending lawsuit by national pork producers arguing against their constitutionality. But for now, rules are rules.

UMass Memorial Health is trying to prepare patients for the planned closure of the birthing center at Leominster Hospital. The maternity ward is slated to close next month, because hospital leaders say it doesn’t get enough business to keep it open. However, critics say the closure will force many pregnant patients in north central Massachusetts to travel at least 20 miles to give birth.

Logan Airport is getting $45 million from the federal government to redesign some of its taxiways. The goal to reduce the risk of collisions between planes on the ground, as well as close calls like the one that occurred last week between a Spirit and American Airlines plane.

Boston has a new school committee member: Mayor Michelle Wu appointed Chantal Lima Barbosa yesterday, the first Cape Verdean woman to serve on the board. Lima Barbosa is replacing former school committee member Lorena Lopera, who resigned earlier this year. She’ll serve at least through the end of Lopera’s term into 2024.

P.S.— Do you have some space in your post-Labor Day schedule? We have two community listening sessions scheduled next month: Sept. 5 in Chelsea and Sept. 9 in Lawrence. The small, off-the-record conversations are a chance for us to hear directly from the community about the the issues that are top of your mind. (There will also be refreshments!) RSVP at the links above.