Senator Hedlund Reflects on Memorial Day

The following is an op-ed from Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund on the meaning of Memorial Day:

John A. Logan, famous American General during the Mexican American War and the father of Memorial Day, once said “Let no vandalism of avarice or neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations, that we have forgotten, as a people, the cost of a free and undivided Republic.” To honor the soldiers and their sacrifice the first Memorial Day, then called Decoration Day, was conducted in 1868 on May 30th, chosen because it was not the day of a battle during the civil war.

These first Memorial Days both in the North and South, by all historical accounts, were somber occasions for families and friends to remember their loved ones. Services were simple and the theme of the day was remembrance. The day was chosen as May 30th because it retained significance as a day of peace during what would become the bloodiest conflict in American history.

This all changed on June 7th, 1968 when the Federal Government passed the Uniform Holiday’s Bill, which moved three holidays from their traditional dates, to a specified Monday creating a three day weekend. Memorial Day was one of them, and was moved from the traditional May 30th, a date of importance, to the last Monday in May. This was the beginning of the end for the traditional Memorial Day as a day of remembrance. As the VFW said in a 2002 Memorial Day Address, “Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed a lot to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day.”

I could not agree with the VFW’s categorization of Memorial Day more strongly. A day once reserved for tradition and honor, for the linking of generations, has over time been corrupted so as to dilute the significance of the Memorial Day holiday. A three day weekend harkening the start of summer, barbeques, and special sale promotions at the mall, all compete for the attention of our citizenry for the meaning of the day.

For this reason I have co-sponsored Senate Bill 1826, reinstituting our old Blue Law closure for Memorial Day only. As politicians and elected officials, we often invoke the specter of remembrance for our war dead and their families; we say how important it is to remember their sacrifices to honor their service, we then conclude our speeches and the few who attend these ceremonies leave, and Memorial Day is over to be forgotten for another year.

That is not the ceremony I want for those that have made the ultimate sacrifice for my freedom. This Memorial Day please remember General John A. Logan and all the men and women who in the service of their country gave their lives, and remember what this day used to be about, not what it has become.

Senator Tarr's Statement on Passage of Senate's Version of Fiscal Year 2012 Budget

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr released the following statement today, following the Senate’s passage of its Fiscal Year 2012 budget:

“The last two days have been characterized by the kind of open, fair and vigorous debate that the issues at hand and the citizens of the Commonwealth deserve. Through this process, the Senate has secured some major accomplishments, including pioneering reform of the methods by which municipal health insurance is provided and paid for and a renewed focus on performance-based governing. Important spending priorities such as special education funding and regional school transportation have also found their place in the actions that have occurred during this budget debate. Yet, although there have been some important accomplishments, there have also been a number of significant missed opportunities to provide relief for beleaguered taxpayers struggling with one of our nation’s worst recessions, to contain the cost of health care that is burdening so many households and employers, and to take actions to spur job creation and revenue growth.

While we must necessarily move forward with a spending document for Fiscal Year 2012, at some point we must do so with an understanding that if we continue to remain inactive in terms of economic growth, further reforms, and health care cost containment, the difficult decisions that we have been facing in this budget debate will grow inevitably worse in the days ahead.”

Video Blog: Senator Tarr Offers Closing Budget Remarks

Media Alert: Senator Hedlund on Fox25

Tune in to tonight’s Fox25 Nightly News broadcast to see Senator Robert Hedlund discuss his thoughts on Governor Patrick’s scheduled court appearance during tomorrow’s hearing.

Media Alert: Senator Ross on the Jeff Katz Show

Tomorrow morning Senator Richard Ross will be speaking with guest hosts Joe Malone and Holly Robichaud of the Jeff Katz Show on Talk 1200AM Boston to recap the Senate budget debate for Fiscal Year 2012. Please tune in tomorrow morning at 7:35 AM to listen to their discussion.

Video Blog: Senator Tarr Discusses Increases to Regional School Transportation and Special Education Accounts

Video Blog: Senator Hedlund Discusses A U.S. History Education Amendment

Media Alert: Senator Knapik on the Jeff Katz Show

Tomorrow morning Senator Michael Knapik will be speaking with guest hosts Joe Malone and Holly Robichaud of the Jeff Katz Show on Talk 1200AM Boston to discuss the first day of Senate budget debate for Fiscal Year 2012. Please tune in tomorrow morning at 7:45 AM to listen to their discussion.

Video Blog: Senator Tarr Delivers a Day 1 Recap of the Senate Budget

Video Blog: Senator Hedlund Discusses Income Tax Rollback

Video Blog: Senator Hedlund Discusses 40B Projects

Video Blog: Senator Knapik Discusses a Sales Tax Holiday

Video Blog: Senate Tarr Delivers Pre-Budget Thoughts

Senator Tarr on the Jeff Katz Show

Tomorrow morning Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will be speaking with Jeff Katz of the Jeff Katz Show on Talk 1200AM Boston to discuss the upcoming Senate budget debate for Fiscal Year 2012 and many of the amendments that the Senate Republican Caucus filed. Please click here to read a previous post about some the amendments filed by the caucus and here to read the actual text of all 599 amendments filed by the members of the Senate. Please tune in tomorrow morning at 7:00 AM to listen to their discussion.

Video Blogging the Senate Budget Debate

Senator Hedlund on NECN’s “Broadside”

Last night Senate Assistant Minority Leader Robert Hedlund joined former Lt. Governor Tom O'Neil and host Jim Braude on New England Cable News Network’s “Broadside”. Their discussion included the GOP presidential field, President Obama’s visit to Ireland, and U.S. Senator Scott Brown’s 2012 re-election campaign. To watch last night’s clip please play the posted video below or click here.

Some Key Proposed Amendments

The Senate Committee on Ways and Means released its budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2012 last week, and by a 12:00pm deadline on Friday 599 amendments had been filed by Senators seeking to modify that proposal. The Senate Republican Caucus has sponsored a number of amendments which offer the potential to reform state government, impose or strengthen fiscal discipline, and promote economic growth. Among them are:

• Meals Tax Holiday (OTHER-11)
Provides a meals tax holiday from October 21, 2011 through October 26, 2011.

• Job Creation Tax Credit (OTHER-40)
Creates a business tax credit of 50% of a new worker’s income tax for every business that increases its work force. A business may take the credit for no more than 50 new eligible employees added, and must take the credit over the course of three years, provided that the business maintains the employment increase.

• Asset Forfeiture (LOC-64)
Provides for the asset forfeiture of motor vehicles for those individuals charged with violating federal immigration laws.

• Revert Local Aid (LOC-55)
Stipulates that 50% of the state’s surplus revenues available at the end of FY12 be slated for distribution to cities and towns through the Lottery formula.

• Confidentiality Agreements (GOV-113)
Directs state agencies and departments that should they enter into a settlement agreement with an employee that includes confidentiality or gag order clauses, the employer must make publicly available a statement as to why the gag order is in the public’s best interest.

• Taxpayer-Funded Advertising (GOV-115)
Prohibits state advertising on subjects other than public health and public safety.

• Gubernatorial Personnel Cost Savings (GOV-119)
Requires the Governor to report on all salary increases and decreases in FY2011 and planned increases or decreases in FY2012.

• Government Transparency and Accountability (GOV-120)
Establishes a searchable website to find out who is receiving state contracts, grants, and other funds. It would build off other existing but inadequate resources, such as Operational Services Division’s Comm-Pass system, and the Executive Office of Administration and Finance’s budget tracking site.

• Fiscal Responsibility with Grants (GOV-121)
Requires the governor, state agencies and quasi-state agencies to submit a cost benefit and job outcome analysis to the Legislature prior to issuing any grants totaling $500,000 or more to private companies.

• Fair Employment and Security (GOV-122)
Requires the Attorney General to set up a hotline for immigration employment and status violations, and also directs the Attorney General to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Attorney General relative to enforcement of immigration laws. Increases penalties against employers who hire workers not legally present in the United States as well as prevents companies in violation from obtaining state government contracts. The amendment also increases penalties for individuals in possession of and/or who distribute falsified identification documents and protects taxpayers’ money by insuring state benefits are not fraudulently acquired by undocumented residents, including health insurance, housing and educational assistance.

• Voter Identification (GOV-125)
Requires voters to provide at the time of voting an identification document. Those unable to provide an identification document must meet the requirements of Chapter 54, Section 76 of the MGL, requiring the voter to submit their name and residence in writing on the ballot, and for the clerk to keep an accurate record of such voters.

• State Contracting Threshold (ECO-210)
Increases from $500,000 to $2 million the threshold for determining which state projects are eligible for privatization.

• Inmate Fees (EPS-354)
Requires $2 daily payment from prisoners as a form of defraying the costs of incarceration. Also requires sheriffs to report on the success of the program 12 months after passage.

• Restrictions on Cash Benefits and Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Cards (EHS-444)
Prohibits the purchase of alcohol, tobacco, and lottery tickets with cash assistance benefits. Provides appropriate penalties for both store owners who knowingly sell prohibited items to recipients and for recipients who use benefits for prohibited purchases. Also adds tough penalties for fraudulent uses of cash benefits – for example, fines and possibly prison time for those who misrepresent their life status to obtain benefits.

• Prescription Drug Waste (EHS-445)
Directs facilities licensed by the departments of public health, mental health and corrections to recycle or return unused medication if it is unopened, individually sealed and within its recommended shelf life. Similar legislation has been adopted in 38 states, and will save the state millions of dollars in drug costs. In particular, in nursing homes, unopened and unused drugs are wasted and disposed of after patients leave the facility, discontinue use of the medication, or pass away.

• Medicaid Utilization (EHS-448)
Requires the office of Medicaid to develop and improve regulations to ensure that Medicare-like claims editing is fully and effectively implemented.

• Mandatory Prescription Drug Coverage (EHS-449)
Gives Massachusetts residents the option of selecting a health care plan that does not include prescription drug coverage without violating the individual mandate law.

The amendments proposed by all of the members of the Senate can be viewed by clicking here. Debate on the amendments will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, and will be webcast at http://masslegislature.tv/?l=sen_video.

Senator Tarr on the Fox 25 Morning News

This morning Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr had the opportunity to discuss the upcoming Senate budget debate and some amendments to the budget that the Senate GOP Caucus filed with news commentator VB of the Fox 25 Morning News. Among the subjects discussed were voter id and the income tax rollback approved by the voters in 2000. To watch today's segment please play the posted video below.

Budget debate: What will get cut?: MyFoxBOSTON.com

Senator Hedlund on 'Broadside' Tonight

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund (pictured at left) will be a guest on Broadside with Jim Braude tonight at 6 p.m. on NECN. Hedlund and Braude will be discussing the GOP field, President Obama's visit to Ireland, and Scott Brown, along with former Lt. Gov Tom O'Neil. Tune in tonight at 6 on NECN to follow the discussion live. The show will be rebroadcast at 8 p.m. and at 3:30 a.m.

Sen. Tarr on Monday’s Fox 25 Morning News

On Monday, May 23rd, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will be talking with news commentator VB of the Fox 25 Morning News to discuss next week’s Senate budget debate and amendments filed by the Republican Caucus. Please tune in at approximately 7:35 a.m.

Senator Hedlund on WGBH's "Week In Review"

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund was on WGBH’s “Week In Review” radio program with Emily Rooney today discussing various topics including the GOP field of contenders and other political and human interest stories from the week. Please play the audio player below or click here to listen to their lively discussion.

Scaling Beacon Hill

Beginning on Wednesday, June 1st, the Massachusetts Senate Republican Blog, “Scaling Beacon Hill”, will permanently switch to the url http://www.scalingbeaconhill.com/. Please click the link and bookmark the page to ensure you have the new address saved.

Senate Adopts Republican Probation Reforms

The Senate adopted a series of probation reforms offered by the Senate Republican Caucus today, incorporating the GOP proposals into a comprehensive probation reform and court reorganization bill that passed unanimously.

A total of seven Republican amendments were approved by the Senate, including one that directs the newly-created advisory committee on personnel standards to use merit-based standards for hiring court personnel, and to post these standards on the trial court’s website. Another amendment requires applicants for any trial court position to be certified as meeting the merit-based considerations for employment before any letters of recommendation submitted on behalf of the applicant can be taken into consideration.

“The probation department has operated for far too long under a dark cloud where politics tainted the hiring and promotion process,” said Senator Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), who offered the amendments along with Senators Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth), Michael Knapik (R-Westfield) and Richard Ross (R-Wrentham). “With the passage of this bill, we can begin to restore public confidence that probation and court personnel are being hired or promoted based on their qualifications and skills, and not on other factors such as political connections.”

The move to create a more transparent hiring process was sparked by a scathing November 2010 report by independent counsel Paul Ware that unveiled evidence of an extensive “pay to play” system within the probation department under former commissioner John O’Brien. The report, which detailed examples of “systemic abuse and corruption” within the department, concluded that “[H]iring and promotion have been thoroughly compromised by a systemic rigging of the interview and selection process in favor of candidates who have political or other personal connections.”

“The Ware report uncovered a serious patronage issue within the probation department which needs to be addressed,” said Senator Tarr. “Probation officers play an important public safety role, and it is imperative that these positions be filled by individuals who are truly qualified for the rigors and demands of the job.”

Other Republican amendments adopted by the Senate today would:

• require the newly-created court administrator to study the feasibility of allowing trial court fees and fines to be paid with a credit card;

• clarify the process for filling court vacancies;

• expand the membership of the proposed advisory board charged with offering recommendations on the management of the probation office to include an active member of the Massachusetts Bar and an experienced probation officer;

• require the chief justice of the trial court and the court administrator to submit a report to the Legislature 90 days prior to the temporary closure or temporary relocation of any courthouse, detailing personnel transfers, reallocation of resources, the impact on other courthouses and other factors associated with such actions; and

• ensure that supervision is provided in an orderly and effective manner for those individuals who are subject to dual supervision.

“As a member of the Probation Reform Working Group this winter, I am happy to see both branches of the Legislature are taking seriously the recommendations of our committee and those of the Supreme Judicial Court,” Senator Knapik said. “During our study it became clear that the entire court system required attention, so I am pleased this legislation has taken a broad approach.”

The House approved a version of the court reorganization bill last week. The differences between the two versions will be worked out by a six-member conference committee that is expected to be appointed next week.

Senator Knapik Shares His Thoughts on the Release of Senate's FY'12 Budget Proposal

Senator Michael R. Knapik (right), the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Ways & Means, offered his comments yesterday on the importance of maintaining fiscal discipline as the Committee rolled out its FY 2012 Budget document at an Executive session at the State House. WWLP-TV22 of Springfield was there to record his remarks. Check out Senator Knapik’s comments on the video clip below and read WWLP's story clicking here.

Senate releases budget proposal: wwlp.com

Senate Republicans Plan to Offer Series of Probation Reforms for Thursday's Debate

The Senate Republican Caucus has filed a series of amendments designed to improve the management of the state’s trial court and to provide more transparency and accountability within the probation department.

The amendments will be debated in the Senate on Thursday as part of a court reorganization bill that was drafted in response to a scathing probation department report issued by independent counsel Paul Ware in November of 2010. That report detailed evidence of “systemic abuse and corruption” within the probation department under former commissioner John O’Brien, including a “pay-to-play” system that often gave job candidates with political connections an inside track over those with more experience and stronger qualifications.

“The bill that is before the Senate tomorrow includes essential reforms the Senate Republican Caucus has long championed, including repealing the probation commissioner’s unilateral hiring authority and establishing a merit-based system to ensure that only qualified court applicants are hired,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester). “While the bill represents a good start, the Caucus has a number of amendments that we feel will make it even better and will go a long way towards restoring the public’s faith in our judicial system.”

The amendments – which are being co-sponsored by Senators Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth), Michael Knapik (R-Westfield) and Richard Ross (R-Wrentham) – would:

· allow for the transferability of funds within the trial court to ensure that the court’s seven departments and the probation commissioner’s office have adequate resources;

· require the chief justice of the trial court to provide the Legislature with a cost and budgetary analysis of the proposed reorganization’s impact prior to implementation;

· provide for an annual independent audit of the trial court by the State Auditor and Inspector General, beginning in 2013;

· require the advisory committee on personnel standards to use merit-based standards for hiring court personnel, and to post these standards on the trial court’s website;

· require applicants for any trial court position to be certified as meeting the merit-based considerations for employment prior to the consideration of any letters of recommendation submitted on behalf of the applicant;

· expand the membership of the proposed advisory board charged with offering recommendations on the management of the probation office to include an active member of the Massachusetts Bar and an experienced probation officer;

· allow for the removal of officers and employees based on merit-based standards;

· require the chief justice of the trial court and the court administrator to submit a report to the Legislature 90 days prior to the temporary closure or temporary relocation of any courthouse, detailing personnel transfers, reallocation of resources, the impact on other courthouses and other factors associated with such actions; and

· require that future hiring within the probation department be done in consultation with the first justice of the applicable court in which an applicant is to be placed.

Senator Tarr’s Statement on the Release of the FY'12 Senate Ways and Means Budget

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr released the following statement regarding today’s release of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means version of the Fiscal Year 2012 state budget:

Producing a state budget proposal is a daunting task under any circumstances, and particularly so in the face of vanishing federal stimulus funding and a challenging economic climate. Thus, I appreciate the work that’s been done by Chairman Brewer and the members of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and Senate President Murray to take the initial steps toward a responsible budget for next year without resorting to new broad-based taxes or other inappropriate measures.

Through their work the stage has been set for a vigorous and productive debate about the meaningful reforms and economic growth actions necessary to improve efficiency, expand our state’s economy, create new jobs and strengthen the sustainability of our state government for those who depend on what the budget funds, and those who bear the burden of providing those funds.

Senate Republicans are now working vigorously to digest and analyze the Senate Committee on Ways and Means proposal, and to develop and introduce the types of amendments that can make a true difference for our Commonwealth.

Probation Reform Advances

Today the Senate Committee on Ways and Means released its version of “An Act Relative to the Reorganization of the Judicial System in the Commonwealth,” which contains major changes in the way our courts are managed, and substantial and needed reforms in the practices utilized to hire and promote Probation Department personnel and court officers.

The bill follows the November 2010 public release of the shocking report completed by Independent Counsel Paul Ware for the Supreme Judicial Court and repeated calls for reform by the Senate Republican Caucus. The bill does, in fact, contain some key elements of legislation proposed as recently as last month by Senate Republicans.

An order adopted today set a deadline of Wednesday at noon for amendments to the bill, which is scheduled to be debated in the Senate on Thursday beginning at 1 p.m.

A summary of the bill provided by the Senate Ways and Means Committee is posted below.

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Changes are on the Way...

The Senate Republican Caucus' blog is undergoing some design changes. The first change, which is effective immediately, is the blog's name change to "Scaling Beacon Hill". Our blog might have a new name, but will be providing the same great coverage of the goings-on here at the Massachusetts State House as we've done since 2008.

Another change that will be permanently in place on June 1st is the site's domain name/url. The current domain name is www.scalingthehill2010.com but will soon switch to www.scalingbeaconhill.com. Please click the link and bookmark the new page to ensure you have the new address saved.

You also may have noticed that we recently began adding quick link/hot buttons at the end of every post. These buttons are to provide you with easy capabilities to either repost, share or print the most recently posted entry on our blog.

Look for more changes in the coming months.

Senator Tarr on the Jeff Katz Show Thursday

On Thursday morning, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will be calling in to the Jeff Katz Show on Rush Talk 1200AM Boston to discuss the meals tax holiday bill that he filed with the GOP Senate Caucus and that is co-sponsored by members of both parties and both branches. The bill will be heard during tomorrow‘s Joint Committee on Revenue hearing in room A-1 of the State House at 10:30 A.M. Please tune in or click here tomorrow morning at 7:00 A.M. to listen to what is sure to be a lively discussion. To read the actual text of the bill please click here.

New MTF Report Details Cost Savings Associated with Municipal Health Plan Design

The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation (MTF) has long touted the benefits of municipal plan design, citing the potential for cities and towns to realize combined annual health care savings as high as $100 million. Today, the MTF drove that point home by releasing a community-by-community historical analysis that it says helps quantify “the dramatic impact of municipal health care reform on municipal budgets and jobs.”

Over the last 10 years, while health care costs under the state’s Group Insurance Commission (GIC) increased by an average of 6.4 percent annually, “more than 90 percent” of the state’s 351 cities and towns saw their health insurance costs “grow at much faster rates,” according to the MTF. In preparing its analysis, the MTF reviewed each community’s actual health care spending from FY2001 to FY2010 , then compared those numbers to what each community would have spent had their local health insurance costs increased at the same average rate as the GIC.

How dramatic an impact would such a simple reform have on communities? According to the MTF, if cities and towns had been granted plan design authority in 2001, more than $3 billion in health care cost savings would have been achieved statewide over the last decades, or the equivalent of 6,500 municipal jobs, based on an average salary of $50,000 per job per year. Boston alone would have saved a cumulative $260.1 million, or the equivalent of 520 municipal jobs each year.

The Senate Republican Caucus has historically advocated for changes in the financing of municipal health insurance. Without such changes, MTF President Michael Widmer warns, “cities and towns across the state will suffer irreparable damage as they are forced to lay off more and more teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other local employees who provide critical public services.”

Senator Tarr's Statement on Today's Joint Revenue Committee Public Hearing

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr released the following statement regarding today’s Revenue Committee hearing:

“Bills on today’s Revenue Committee hearing agenda clearly delineate the philosophical differences between some Democrats and the Senate Republican Caucus when it comes to taxes. Our bills are focused on assisting Massachusetts residents and allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned money, including:

• Senate Bill 1526, which would establish a commuter tax deduction to help offset rising gas prices;

• Senate Bill 1537, which would assist first-time homebuyers by offering a private mortgage insurance tax deduction; and

• Senate Bill 1542, which would fulfill the voters’ wishes to reduce the income tax to 5 percent.

Unfortunately, some legislators continue to explore ways to extract even more revenues from the taxpayers. An impartial observer might assume that with April tax revenues coming in at record highs, the Legislature wouldn’t be trying to raise taxes even higher. But Senate Bill 1416 would implement a graduated income tax that would increase the personal income tax from 5.3 to 5.95 percent and the investment income tax from 5.3 to 8.95 percent for some taxpayers.

Taxpayers shouldn’t be lulled into a false sense of complacency just because the House passed a budget with no new taxes. The reality is that some legislators are intent on pursuing every available avenue to raise taxes, but the Senate Republican Caucus intends to stand up for the taxpayers and work aggressively to defeat these proposals. We believe now is the time to be proactive in moving the state forward from a period of recession to prosperity, and the best way to do that is to empower our taxpayers with more disposable income to invest in our economic recovery.”

Senator Hedlund on 'Week In Review'

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund was a guest on the April 29th edition of the "Week In Review" on the Emily Rooney Show on WGBH Radio (89.7 FM). Hedlund, along with former State Treasurer Shannon O'Brien and Boston Globe Magazine columnist Tom Keane, joined Rooney for a spirited discussion of former House Speaker Sal DiMasi’s corruption trial, President Obama's decision to release his birth certificate, and other stories and bylines wrapping up the week in politics. Check it out by clicking on the audio link below.

Senator Tarr: 'A Victory for Freedom'

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr released the following statement today regarding the death of 9/11 terrorist mastermind Osama bin Laden:

The news that President Barack Obama delivered to the nation on Sunday night of the successful military operation that not only located but killed Osama bin Laden in a compound in Pakistan is a welcome and important development in the war against terrorism and a testament to the commitment of those who defend our nation to bring bin Laden to justice. It has been almost ten years since bin Laden orchestrated the terrorist hijacking of four commercial airliners on September 11, 2001 that resulted in nearly 3,000 victims losing their lives and even more sustaining long-lasting health afflictions.

Although the War on Terrorism is far from over, the elimination of bin Laden is an accomplishment of incalculable significance, and offers us all an opportunity to reflect and think of not only those lost on that tragic day but of those who have fallen bravely fighting to thwart the objectives of tyrants and terrorists. With the efforts of our service members, our intelligence agencies, and the dedication of countless others both domestically and abroad, the search for the most wanted man in the world is over and we can take solace in the fact that bin Laden won't ever have the opportunity to kill again.

The decade long search for bin Laden, initiated by President George W. Bush and advanced by President Obama, is a true testament to the dedication and unity that this nation has maintained in bringing this man to justice and I want to express my appreciation to all of those who contributed to this successful effort.

Senator Tarr Issues Statement on Senate President's Finance Law Reform Proposal

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr testified this morning before the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight in support of Senate Bill 1900, An Act to Improve the Administration of State Government and Finance. After the hearing, Senator Tarr released the following statement:

“I was pleased to testify today in support of the legislation filed by the Senate President, which would implement the first steps in an effort to improve transparency and efficiency in the state’s finances, through tools such as debt affordability analysis and periodic performance management reviews to eliminate waste and duplication. These issues have been a priority for the Senate Republican Caucus for the past several years, and we are happy to partner with the Senate President to address them in this legislative session. We recognize that today’s proposal is an important interim step towards the ultimate goal of having an infrastructure for transparency and accountability permanently in place in state government. We firmly believe that, in the end, it is imperative that we implement a system of zero-based budgeting to ensure that the expenditure of every taxpayer dollar is justified and sustainable. Senate Bill 1619, which is a bipartisan measure that we have filed and is currently pending before the committee, will achieve that goal, and we will continue to aggressively pursue its passage.”

Senator Ross Recovering After Fall

Everyone here at Scaling The Hill would like to wish Senate Minority Whip Richard Ross (R-Wrentham) a speedy recovery. Senator Ross underwent knee surgery last week to repair a torn quadriceps he suffered after taking a fall at the State House. Yesterday, he issued the following statement in response to the outpouring of support and well wishes he's received:

I cannot thank everyone enough for all the kind words, thoughts and prayers I have received since last week's fall at the State House. I am home right now resting comfortably after undergoing emergency surgery last Thursday to repair a torn quadriceps in my left leg. Though it will take a few months of rehab to get back to 100 percent I have no doubt I will be back on my feet in no time. Again I cannot stress enough how much I appreciate everyone's well wishes and I look forward to getting back to work at the State House as soon as possible.

Patriot Ledger Editorial Endorses Hedlund Proposal to Abolish the Governor's Council

An editorial published in last Saturday's Quincy Patriot Ledger offers an endorsement of Assistant Minority Leader Robert Hedlund's efforts to abolish the Executive Council. More commonly referred to as the Governor's Council, the eight-member elected body dates back to Colonial times and is primarily responsible for approving the Governor's judicial appointees, as well as reviewing requests for criminal pardons and commutations. While critics have long dismissed the Council as antiquated and obsolete, the Patriot Ledger was even more blunt in its assessment, referring to the Council as "useless, costly and embarrassing."

Hedlund is actually backing not one but two bills to abolish the Governor's Council. He is the lead sponsor of Senate Bill 17, and is co-sponsoring Senate Bill 15 with Senator Brian Joyce (D-Milton). Both bills were heard by the Joint Committee on the Judiciary on April 14.

Sen. Hedlund on 'Emily Rooney Show' Friday

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund will be a guest on the Emily Rooney Show on Friday. The shows airs from noon-1 p.m. on WGBH radio (89.7 FM), and can also be streamed live.

Senator Tarr Shares His Thoughts on House Municipal Health Care Amendment

Earlier this week, the House of Representatives passed an amendment to the House version of the Fiscal Year 2012 state budget that would change the way healthcare plans for municipal and school employees are developed. On Wednesday, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr had the opportunity to discuss his initial thoughts on the issue with host Barry Armstrong of WRKO radio's "Lunch Money" program. To listen to the interview, please click the photo posted below. To read the actual language of the amendment, please click here.

Senator Hedlund Joins 'Broadside' Debate on Senator Brown's 2012 Re-Election Prospects

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund was a guest on Monday night's "Broadside" on NECN with host Jim Braude. Hedlund appeared alongside Doug Rubin, former Chief of Staff and Campaign Manager for Governor Deval Patrick, and challenged Rubin's recent Boston Herald column titled “Dems Can Beat Scott Brown in 2012 Here’s How”. Hedlund maintains the column is actually a template on why Senator Brown will be re-elected to the U.S. Senate next year. The debate can be seen in its entirety here.

Senator Tarr Joins 'Tolman and Gray'

On Thursday morning, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr was a guest on the Fox 25 Morning News' segment "Tolman and Gray". Tarr joined former State Senator Warren Tolman and Fox 25 Morning News co-anchor Gene Lavanchy to discuss the upcoming trial of former House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi; the release of the House Ways and Means Committee's proposed state budget for Fiscal Year 2012, which includes a municipal health care reform proposal; and the possibility of suspending the state's gas tax temporarily to provide relief to consumers. You can watch the full discussion by playing the video posted below.

Talking Politics: MyFoxBOSTON.com

Senator Tarr on Fox 25 Thursday Morning

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will appear live in-studio tomorrow morning as a guest on the Fox25 Morning News segment “Tolman and Gray”, analyzing the latest political issues with former State Senator Warren Tolman. Some of the topics that may be discussed include a look back at last year's BP oil spill, Governor Patrick's national book tour, and the recent release of the House Ways and Means budget for Fiscal Year 2012. The segment is scheduled to air Thursday at approximately 7:15 a.m., so be sure to tune in.

House Budget Writers Endorse Republicans' Position on Wage Violation Penalties

What a difference a few years make.

In 2008, over the objections of Republican lawmakers, the Legislature approved a change in the General Laws mandating that all employers be subject to treble damages for wage violations, even if the violation was unintentional. At the time, Republicans argued that treble damages should apply only in those cases where the wage violation was committed willfully and intentionally. Even Governor Patrick acknowledged that the proposed changes were "overly punitive" to those employers who made an honest mistake.

Fast forward three years later, as the House Ways and Means Committee released its budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2012. Included in the budget is language that reverses the 2008 changes and limits treble damages to those cases where the delay in paying wages to an employee was done intentionally. Be sure to check out the State House News Service's coverage of this latest development, which includes comments from Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr.

Senate GOP Re-files Probation Reform Bill

Continuing their commitment to address allegations of widespread patronage and a "pay-to-play" scandal within the state’s probation department, the Senate Republican Caucus has re-filed legislation outlining several key reforms needed to help restore the public’s confidence in the judicial system.

The Senate bill seeks to address many of the problems identified in independent counsel Paul Ware’s November 2010 report, which detailed evidence of “systemic abuse and corruption” within the probation department under former commissioner John O’Brien. The report – which was commissioned after a Boston Globe Spotlight Team investigation – found that “[H]iring and promotion have been thoroughly compromised by a systemic rigging of the interview and selection process in favor of candidates who have political or other personal connections.”

“The integrity of our criminal justice system has been called into question by what has been allowed to transpire unchecked for far too long within the probation department,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), who is sponsoring the bill with Senators Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth), Michael Knapik (R-Westfield) and Richard Ross (R-Wrentham). “The reforms we are seeking will help to ensure that future job candidates are hired or promoted based on their actual qualifications for the job, and not on their political connections.”

The latest bill contains language similar to a proposal the Senate Republican Caucus offered as an amendment during the Fiscal Year 2011 budget debate last spring. The Caucus also filed a stand-alone reform bill at the end of the 2009-2010 legislative session.

A key component of the new reform bill is that it would reverse the Legislature’s 2001 decision to remove the probation department from the court system and grant the commissioner autonomy over personnel decisions. The Ware report found that the problems within the department began shortly after this transfer of power occurred.

The Senate bill would:

• transfer control over personnel decisions within the probation department to the Chief Justice of Administration and Management for the Trial Courts, including all appointments, dismissals and assignments;

• give the probation commissioner executive control and supervision of the parole service;

• require the development of a merit-based system to ensure that only qualified candidates are hired and promoted; and

• limit the probation commissioner to a five-year term, subject to appointment by the Chief Justice for Administration and Management for the Trial Courts.

“The public has a right to a probation department with true integrity and wants to see decisive action taken to correct these problems,” said Senator Tarr. “This bill provides a roadmap for implementing positive changes within the probation department and correcting the mistake the Legislature made 10 years ago that allowed politics to trump process.”

Senate Unanimously Adopts Early Local Aid Resolution Requested by GOP Caucus

Today the Massachusetts State Senate acted on a Republican Caucus order to provide cities and towns with a set of preliminary Fiscal Year 2012 (FY12) local aid figures. The Senate resolution, which passed unanimously by a roll call vote of 36-0, sets the minimum amount of Chapter 70 education aid and general government assistance communities can expect to receive from the state for the new fiscal year that begins on July 1st.

“This resolution addresses two critical factors – timing and reliability,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr. “Through its adoption, municipal and school officials can have the information they need to make timely decisions about their budgets, and they can count on specific amounts of aid, at a minimum, to be there when they need them."

Tarr filed an order last week with Senators Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth), Michael Knapik (R-Westfield) and Richard Ross (R-Wrentham) compelling the filing of today's local aid resolution by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and its consideration by the Senate.

The local aid figures reflect a $120 million – or 3.1 percent – increase in Chapter 70 education aid for cities and towns, bringing the statewide total to $3.99 billion. Unfortunately, unrestricted general government aid is reduced to $833 million statewide. This represents a cut of $65 million, or 7 percent, compared to this year’s totals.

The timing of the resolution is critical, since municipal and school budgets must be acted upon and approved by local legislative bodies well in advance of the July 1st deadline for the implementation of the state budget for the coming fiscal year.

“Senate Republicans have consistently expressed the belief that local aid is a budgetary priority, and today’s vote reflects the agreement of the full Senate with that belief,” Tarr noted.

Senator Tarr Interviewed by Channel 5 About New MBTA Employee Amnesty Program

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr spoke with reporter Sean Kelly of WCVB-TV Channel 5 yesterday about the MBTA's new employee amnesty program. A Channel 5 investigation discovered that the MBTA has been allowing workers who misrepresented their educational background on their original employment application to come clean without fear of losing their job, provided they obtain their GED in a timely fashion. The report -- which originally aired on Wednesday night’s 11 p.m. newscast -- can be viewed by playing the attached video link.

Senator Tarr Issues Statement on Commuter Rail Oversight Hearings

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr released the following statement on the Transportation Committee’s decision to hold the first of two commuter rail oversight hearings yesterday, following a written request by the Senate Republican Caucus:

"I want to thank the chairmen of the Joint Committee on Transportation for responding to the concerns raised by the Senate Republican Caucus and holding this important informational hearing to get to the bottom of some of the problems that have plagued our public transportation system in recent months. Today’s hearing has given us a better sense of the contributing factors that have led to countless service disruptions and delays on our commuter rail system, but the public hearing process won't be complete until the public has an opportunity to be heard. I look forward to the second hearing on May 3 and hopefully others, where it is imperative that members of the general public have the opportunity to provide their comments and suggestions for getting the commuter rail system back on track. Armed with the information from today's hearings and the thoughts and suggestions of those who depend on commuter rail service everyday to travel, we then can and must do whatever is necessary to prevent continued hardships and disruptions."

Tarr Addresses Commuter Rail Delays

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr was a guest on the Fox 25 Morning News, where he had the opportunity to discuss yesterday's MBTA Oversight Hearing held by the Joint Committee on Transportation with morning news anchor Gene Lavanchy. Yesterday's public hearing featured testimony from MBTA and MBCR officials, legislators and transportation experts who provided insight on the issues surrounding commuter rail service disruptions. To view the interview in its entirety, just play the posted video below.

Lawmakers preparing to grill MBTA: MyFoxBOSTON.com

Hedlund Weighs in on Corporate Tax Breaks

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund sits on the Senate Post Audit and Oversight Committee, which recently conducted an oversight hearing on the tax breaks given to Evergreen Solar and Fidelity Investments. The following is an op-ed piece Senator Hedlund distributed to his local newspapers regarding the hearing:

Beacon Hill saw a flurry of activity last month, from the passage of an over $300 million supplemental budget, to multiple committee hearings, one you may have seen both newspaper and television coverage of. On Tuesday afternoon, March 29th, the Senate Post Audit and Oversight Committee, of which I am the ranking minority member, heard testimony from executives of Evergreen Solar and Fidelity Investments.

State officials are concerned over the recent decision by Fidelity to close its Marlborough facility and relocate some of those 1,000 jobs to Rhode Island and New Hampshire, and Evergreen Solar’s attempted sale of its $450 million manufacturing plant in Devens after benefitting to the tune of almost $21 million in tax breaks and grants, and moving production to China.

These decisions highlight a larger problem for the Commonwealth. Specifically, targeted tax breaks for favored industries, the Commonwealth’s inability to track job growth from tax incentives due to corporate shield laws, and the lack of effective clawback provisions allowing for the recouping of investments if job growth doesn’t meet expectations. In short, what I have believed for a long time is a failed tax policy and ineffective economic development strategy has created a situation where the Administration is gambling with your tax dollars, and putting the Commonwealth in a position of reading tea leaves to pick winners and losers in specific industries.

This has been the failed policy since 1996, picking the industry flavor of the month, Raytheon was first, then the film industry - with testimony from this hearing claiming the state is giving away $113,000 in tax credits for every temporary film job created - and most recently the biotech industry.

In the case of Evergreen Solar the Administration considered them a “winner” until they decided to close up shop and move to China. Bringing us to one crux of the problem: state law protects companies from having to disclose tax information, making it virtually impossible for the Commonwealth to track the effectiveness of the tax and other incentives it offers. In the case of Evergreen that means when the economy shifts and the jobs “disappear”, as Chief Executive Michael El-Hillow testified, the Commonwealth is left holding an empty $21 million bucket.

Testimony from Housing and Economic Development Secretary Gregory Bialecki indicates the Commonwealth could recoup up to $13 million from Evergreen through existing clawback provisions, but over $7 million of that was an investment tax credit that went unclaimed. Some feel more effective clawback provisions could help the State in the future.

In the case of Fidelity a 1996 change in the tax code, not considered a tax break according to testimony of Fidelity President Ronald O’Hanley, allowed the mutual fund company to join manufacturers in benefitting from a single sales factor calculation for income tax rather than the three-factor formula which accounts for payroll and property. In this case Fidelity may be right; I do not categorize this as a giveaway. I think it was a common sense incentive to get businesses to come to Massachusetts. The problem is that at the time of the passage the legislature required companies to increase employment by 5% a year for 5 years to take advantage of the single sales calculation. Fidelity exceeded this by creating nearly 3,000 jobs, double what it was required, while enjoying the tax break in perpetuity.

Frankly, government should not be in the business of allocating a special benefit for one industry over another, or worse picking winners within one industry to receive special favors, tax breaks, or grants, as we now do with biotech companies through the “Life Sciences Initiative.” This should serve as a wake-up call to this administration, and the legislature.

Tax policies need to be revisited, the tax code needs to be simplified and our corporate tax burden reduced across the board. Massachusetts is currently ranked #32 by the Tax Foundation in the State Business Tax Climate Index fiscal year 2011 calculations. Another step is making sure taxpayer investment is done with oversight and accurate information.

Media Alert: Tarr on Fox 25 Morning News

Tuesday morning at approximately 7:45 a.m., Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will be a guest on the Fox 25 Morning News to discuss his thoughts on the Joint Committee on Transportation's MBTA oversight hearing, which is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon at 2 p.m. in the State House. To read a past blog post on Tarr Talk on how the oversight hearing came to fruition, please click here, and don't forget to tune in tomorrow morning for what is sure to be a lively discussion.

Senate Republicans Secure Commitment for Early Local Aid Notification by April 14

The Massachusetts Senate has approved a Republican Caucus proposal to provide cities and towns with preliminary Fiscal Year 2012 local aid figures no later than April 14.

An Order adopted by the Senate today requires the Senate Ways and Means Committee to prepare and file local aid numbers for cities and towns by April 13, detailing the minimum amount of Chapter 70 education aid and general government assistance communities can expect to receive from the state for the new fiscal year that begins on July 1. Those numbers will be voted on by the Senate at the next formal session on April 14.

“Given the continued uncertainty surrounding the state’s economy, it’s important that we provide cities and towns with preliminary figures in advance of the new fiscal year so local officials can have realistic numbers in front of them when they prepare their municipal budgets,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), who filed the Order along with Senators Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth), Michael Knapik (R-Westfield) and Richard Ross (R-Wrentham).

Tarr said the early local aid notification will allow municipalities to be better prepared by providing communities with the most up-to-date numbers in advance of their annual town hall meetings, rather than making them wait until the budget is finalized on July 1.

Media Alert: Senator Tarr to Appear on 'Conservatively Speaking' and Jeff Katz Show

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr is scheduled to join Senator Richard Moore and "Conservatively Speaking" host Jon Weston on WCRN True Talk 830 on Saturday morning. They will be discussing the Secure Communities Program and parole reform in Massachusetts beginning at approximately 7:30 a.m.

On Monday morning, Senator Tarr will be speaking with Jeff Katz of the Jeff Katz Show on Rush Talk 1200 Boston to discuss several Medicaid reform amendments to yesterday's supplemental budget that were filed by the Senate Republican Caucus. Please tune in on Monday at 7:05 a.m. to hear the interview.

To read more about the Medicaid amendments that were filed please check out the recent Tarr Talk post.