Senate Republicans Pursue Major Budget Changes; Amendments would Reform, Reinvigorate and Reinvest

Calling the Fiscal Year 2015 budget proposal filed by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means a good place to start, the Senate Republican Caucus has filed a number of amendments seeking major positive change to capture efficiencies and savings in state government, to strengthen cities and towns and schools, and support working families all across the Commonwealth.

“The budget is not only the most important spending document of the year, it also charts a course for the future of our state,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), who added that “Now is the time to begin building a post-recession Massachusetts featuring critical elements like efficiency and prosperity.  These amendments set a course toward those goals.”

Toward that end, the caucus has carefully examined the budget with an eye toward amendments targeting the three major themes of Reform, Reinvestment and Reinvigoration.  They include amendments to:

REFORM:

·  respond directly to problems at the beleaguered Department of Children and Families (DCF) (amendments 40, 65, 76 and 80);

·  make key changes to the state’s Sex Offender Registry system, to cause better communication with law enforcement agencies, and more properly classify offenders with a greater risk of re-offense (amendment 612);

·  change the state’s interaction with the federal Affordable Care Act by restoring important elements of Massachusetts’ existing law, including rating factors, choice of plans and a website that works (amendments 885, 890 and 894);

·  increase accountability through amendments dealing with state-issued credit cards (amendment 192), the granting of medical marijuana licenses (amendment 911), crime lab oversight (amendment 622) and other problematic areas;

·  implement needed reforms to the state’s system of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards that remain trapped  in a stalled conference committee (amendment 836)

REINVIGORATE:

·  eliminate barriers to job creation and economic growth such as corporate excise taxes for new business ventures (amendment 43), excessive sales and income taxes (amendments 16 and 25), energy costs (amendment 204) and other anti-competitive costs;

·  provide incentives such as tax credits for newly-created jobs (amendments 18 and 45) and the long-delayed FAS 109 tax deduction promised to employers since 2008 (amendment 46);

·  cuse the creation of a real state economic development plan with measurable goals and benchmarks (amendment 460)

REINVEST:

·  begin to restore unrestricted local aid to its levels in 2008 (amendment 87), and direct a portion of budget surpluses to cities and towns  (amendment 86);

·  improve school performance and student achievement by reinstating the Innovation Schools line item (amendment 464), restore the Foundation Budget Review Commission to address deficiencies in Chapter 70 education funding (amendment 21), and expand the Education Pothole line item to assist communities facing unanticipated fiscal challenges (amendments 82 and 504); and

·  support the statutory promises of regional school transportation funding (amendment 545)

“This budget debate provides us with a great opportunity to start keeping the promises we’ve made to taxpayers for more reform, lower taxes and a better economy with more and better jobs,” said Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert L. Hedlund (R-Weymouth).  “It’s also a great opportunity to re-commit to our cities and towns, who have taken it on the chin in recent years with inadequate local aid and more and more unfunded mandates.  My colleagues and I in the Republican Caucus are ready to fight for these promises and principles and I hope after all the debate we have a budget I can proudly support.”

“This budget presents a myriad of opportunities to offer significant changes that will benefit taxpayers and municipalities across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Richard J. Ross (R-Wrentham), the Ranking Republican on the Senate Ways and Means Committee. “My colleagues in the Republican Caucus and I will continue to advocate for meaningful government reform to enhance efficiency and transparency, while alleviating the financial burdens felt by taxpayers and businesses statewide.”

“The Republican Senators are mindful that the citizens of our Commonwealth continue to struggle with the high costs of living and working in Massachusetts,” said Senate Minority Whip Donald F. Humason, Jr. (R-Westfield).  “We intend to promote a state budget that is responsible and respectful to the taxpayers of the Bay State while continuing to push for efficiency and accountability in our state government.  It is the least we can do for the people who send us to be their voice on Beacon Hill.”

Senate Republicans Seek Federal Waiver from Obamacare; Public Dollars Continue to be Wasted because of IT Failures

In an effort to advance fiscal responsibility within state government, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), Assistant Minority Leader Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth), Senate Minority Whip Donald Humason (R-Westfield), and Senator Richard Ross (R-Wrentham), the Ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Ways and Means filed an amendment to a $144 million supplemental budget that would have required the Governor of the Commonwealth to formally request a federal waiver to allow Massachusetts to return to the state’s original health care website exchange, which was built in 2006, rather than paying for another costly website to comply with the Federal Affordable Care Act. The text of the supplemental budget included a $65 million item to fund the operations of the Connector, compelling the Senate Republican Caucus to file the amendment, which would have frozen any additional connector funding from being used to create a new website until after a formal waiver request was made.

“Month after month, the Connector has spent millions of dollars trying to create the Taj Mahal of insurance websites while many consumers’ coverage is at risk,” said Senator Tarr. “Now the agency wants to continue on a two-track path that will cost millions more and jeopardize the health insurance policies of even more people, even though we had a system that worked to begin with.”

Senator Tarr went on to say “If the federal government is sincere in its claims that Massachusetts has been a model that should be recognized and accommodated, then it should be more than willing to grant a waiver to allow us to return to a system that previously worked to secure coverage for 98% of our residents and cost only $10 million to build. We should be rewarded for that accomplishment, not punished.”

Regarded as the model for the nation’s federal health care plan, the Massachusetts Health Care Connector led to over 98% of the Commonwealth’s residents having health care insurance coverage. To transition the citizens of the Commonwealth to the then newly created plan, the state built a website that cost less than $10 million to design; however, in an effort to comply with the federal act, Massachusetts has now spent nearly a half billion dollars in public funds. Expenditures to comply with the federal health care law include:

• $270 million in federal grants to implement the Affordable Care Act;

• $120 million for the continued usage of Commonwealth Care plans; and

• $50 million to pay Optum, a health care technology company base in Minnesota, for assisting with an application backlog.

The massive website boondoggle has led many Massachusetts’ citizens to submit paper applications and/or have been placed on temporary Medicaid until the state is able to determine the appropriate coverage, causing a spike in health care costs. Now there are plans to completely scrap the first federal care exchange attempt, which cost over $100 million in public funds, and to spend an additional $100-$145 million on a new website exchange.

Recently, the federal government has demonstrated flexibility regarding the Massachusetts Health Care Exchange by consenting to extensions such as rating factors and the grace-period for calendar year plans.

Unfortunately, the Senate Republican Caucus was unable to secure the needed votes for the amendment, which failed by a roll call vote of 4-33 along party lines. Despite the rejection of today’s amendment, Tarr and the caucus remain steadfast in their commitment to returning to a system that works rather than endlessly pursuing one that may not.

Next week the Senate will debate a $36 billion state budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2015, where the caucus plans to file many amendments that highlight fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability.

Senator Tarr’s Statement on the Release of Senate Ways and Means’ FY’15 State Budget

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding the release of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means’ Fiscal Year 2015 state budget:

“The Fiscal Year 2015 budget proposal released today by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means invests in important priorities such as special education, substance abuse, child welfare, and public safety.  In addition the committee has made laudable strides in the proposal to reduce its dependence on the stabilization fund and increasing taxes.

Today’s action by the committee is an important starting point, and in the days ahead we must work vigorously to secure initiatives to grow jobs, reform state government, and find savings and efficiencies to complete the effort.

Our caucus will be offering many ways to do so, and we look forward to working with our colleagues to build a post-recession Massachusetts that has efficiency and fiscal discipline in state government, and an economic climate that promotes prosperity for years to come.”

Senator Tarr’s Statement on a Proposed Substance Abuse Recovery Bill

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding a substance abuse treatment and recovery bill released today from the Senate Committee on Ways and Means:

“We have all seen the destructive nature of what opioids and other drugs can have on the life of someone caught in the vicious cycle of addiction, and the harm it can have on a family and their community.  It is vital that Massachusetts does not stand idly by as families deteriorate and continue to suffer, and it is time that the legislature puts in place the tools necessary to seriously combat this issue in an effective and responsible fashion.

The measure offered by Senate President Therese Murray and Senator John Keenan is a great starting point and a wonderful opportunity to begin the process of exchanging ideas to best combat this major issue troubling our society.  I applaud their efforts for creating the vehicle for that to happen, and I look forward to having a spirited debate on the matter where Senate Republicans will be active participants.”

Letter from Senate Republican Caucus to DCF Commissioner Deveney Regarding Justina Pelletier

Today, the Massachusetts Senate Republican Caucus sent the following letter to Interim DCF Commissioner Erin Deveney regarding Justina Pelletier:

   http://www.scribd.com/doc/222151456/2014-05-05-SIGNED-CAUCUS-Letter-to-DCF-Commissioner-Deveney-Re-Justina-Pelletier"  style="text-decoration: underline;" >2014.05.05 SIGNED CAUCUS Letter to DCF Commissioner Deveney Re Justina Pelletier

Senator Humason to Hold Public Office Hours at Easthampton Senior Center May 12th at 11 a.m.

Senator Don Humason of the 2nd Hampden & Hampshire District and his staff will hold public office hours at the Easthampton Senior Center between the hours of 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Monday, May 12^th.

The Easthampton Senior Center is located at 19 Union Street in Easthampton.  There is ample parking around the building and plenty of room for any who wish to meet with the Senator.

All are welcome to come, visit, and share their thoughts or concerns on state matters with Senator Humason.

Senator Humason and his staff are also available to meet with constituents at their district office located at 64 Noble Street in Westfield.  No appointment is necessary, but calling ahead to (413) 561-1366 is recommended in case they are at the State House.  Senator Humason's Boston office can be reached at 617-722-1415 for legislative matters.

Senator Humason's email is Donald.Humason@MASenate.gov and his website is www.DonHumason.org

In Case You Missed It...

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth) was a guest on last night's broadcast of "Greater Boston".  Hedlund and fellow guest Maria Mossaides of the Children's League of Massachusetts joined host Emily Rooney for an in-studio discussion of the Department of Children and Families and yesterday's resignation of DCF Commissioner Olga Roche.  You can watch their discussion by playing the video link below.

Media Alert: Senator Tarr on NECN at 11 a.m.

This morning Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will be a guest on NECN’s Morning News, where he’ll be discussing the latest developments regarding the resignation of the Department of Children and Families Commissioner Olga Roche, and what the department needs to do moving forward to regain public trust.

Please tune in at 11:00 a.m. for today’s appearance.

Media Alert: Senator Tarr On the Air with Fox25, Senator Hedlund on ‘Greater Boston’ Tonight

Tonight, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) will be a guest on the Fox 25 Evening News to discuss the resignation of Department of Children and Families (DCF) Commissioner Olga Roche, and the necessary steps the department needs to take to regain the public’s trust.  The segment will air during the 5 p.m. broadcast.

Also tonight, Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth) will join host Emily Rooney as an in-studio guest on “Greater Boston” to discuss the changes at DCF.  The show airs at 7 p.m. on WGBH Channel 2 and re-airs at 12:30 a.m.

Senator Tarr's Statement on the Resignation of DCF Commissioner Olga Roche

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding the resignation of Department of Children and Families Commissioner Olga Roche:

“The resignation of Commissioner Roche is an important and necessary step in reforming the Department of Children and Families, but it’s not the only step that needs to be taken.

DCF has systemic failures, and they demand sweeping reform to protect some of our state's most vulnerable children and families. Responsible caseloads, accountability at every level, a focus on the best interest of the child, and timely actions need to be part of the fabric of this agency.

For the legislature and the Governor to leave these reforms undone in the wake of Roche's departure would be a serious mistake and a disservice to our state.”

Senator Tarr's Statement on Latest DCF Failures

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today, following reports of the deaths of two more children under the care of the Department of Children and Families:

“The most recent tragic deaths of Aliana Lavigne and Bailey Irish are an emphatic reinforcement of the fact that DCF is experiencing systemic failures that demand sweeping reforms that extend from new leadership to reasonable caseloads to the kind of comprehensive protocols and accountability that will prevent further harm to some of the state’s most vulnerable children and families.”

Senator Tarr's Statement on MA Affordable Care Act Waiver Extension

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today after it was announced that the federal government has given Massachusetts a one-year waiver extension on an Affordable Care Act mandate that will change the way insurers calculate premiums for businesses:

"This waiver extension is indeed good news for small businesses in our state and the people who depend on them. Healthcare costs are a major challenge to increasing employment in the wake of a long and difficult recession.

That's why we need to use the time gained from the waiver to redouble our efforts to secure permanent relief from a risk rating system that will disrupt what has worked for our state to accurately price risk and to help prevent the rate spikes that the federal mandate could well cause.

If people in Washington truly believe that  Massachusetts has been a pioneer in health care reform, then they should give our system the respect it deserves and prevent it from being disrupted by a mandate that doesn't make sense for our state."

Support for the PAWS Act

Today the PAWS Act received its public hearing before the Joint Committee on the Judiciary.  There were several legislators, animal activists, and advocacy groups testifying in support of the comprehensive animal abuse protection bill that Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr authored, which has 75 additional co-sponsors.

Today’s hearing was an important next step in the legislative process.  With formal sessions ending on July 31^st, it is imperative that people call, email, or write to the members of the Judiciary Committee to release the bill favorably.  Click here for the contact information for the members of the Judiciary Committee.

The legislation raises fines and penalties, and creates an animal abuse registry. Highlights of the bill include:

• Establishing an anonymous animal abuse tip hotline;

• Expanding the use of the Homeless Animal Prevention and Care Fund to include the rehabilitation and care of abused animals, and increasing the size of the board that administers the fund to include a special state police officer from an animal humane organization, and a member of local law enforcement;

• Imposing a fine of up to $1,000 on any veterinarian who knowingly and willfully fails to report a suspected act of cruelty to an animal;

• Increasing the penalties associated with cruelty to animals, or maliciously killing, maiming, disfiguring, or exposing them to poison from a monetary fine of $2,500 or imprisonment in the state prison for not more than 5 years or imprisonment in the house of correction for not more than 2 ½ years to between $2,500 and $10,000 and/or imprisonment;

• Providing judicial discretion to expand the penalties for up to 5 additional years imprisonment and an additional $10,000 fine based on a finding of the existence of aggravating factors, including but not limited to the number of animals involved, the degree of premeditation or planning,   whether the abuse occurred in the presence of a child; whether the abuse occurred as a result of acts undertaken for financial benefit (i.e., dogfighting), and whether the abuse was systematic or isolated;

• Increasing the penalties for a second or subsequent offense from 5-10 years state imprisonment and a fine between $5,000 to $20,000;

• Increasing the penalty for a hit and run conviction on a cat or dog from a $50 fine to up to $2,000 fine and/or up to 60 days in a house of corrections;

• Creating a statewide registry of convicted individuals of animal abuse crimes, and requires all animal shelters, pet stores or animal breeders to check the registry prior to offering, selling, delivering, or giving an animal to any individual; and

• Creating a 9-member commission to review the state’s animal cruelty laws, many of which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Senator Humason to Hold Office Hours at Southwick Town Hall Friday, 10:30-Noon

Senator Don Humason of the 2nd Hampden & Hampshire District, and his staff will hold public office hours at Southwick Town Hall between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and Noon on Friday, April 25^th.

Southwick Town Hall is located at 454 College Highway in Southwick and the Senator will be in Conference Room 2. There is ample parking behind the building and plenty of room for any who wish to meet with the Senator.

All are welcome to come, visit, and share their thoughts or concerns on state matters with Senator Humason.

Senator Humason and staff are also available to meet with constituents at their district office located at 64 Noble Street in Westfield.  No appointment is necessary, but calling ahead to (413) 561-1366 is recommended in case they are at the State House.  Senator Humason's Boston office can be reached at 617-722-1415 for legislative matters.

Senator Humason's email is Donald.Humason@MASenate.gov and his website is www.DonHumason.org.

Senator Tarr’s Statement on the Scheduling of a Public Hearing for the "PAWS Act"

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding Senate Bill 1914, An Act Protecting Animal Welfare and Safety (the PAWS Act), which has been scheduled for a public hearing on April 24^th at 1:30 p.m. in hearing room A-2 of the State House by the Joint Committee on the Judiciary.  The bill offered by Senator Tarr has a total of 76 sponsors, with members of both parties and both branches supporting the bill:

“News that a long awaited public hearing for the PAWS Act has been scheduled is indeed good.  Sadly the heinous crimes against Puppy Doe, a dog who was left beaten, battered, and alone in a Quincy Park, is far from the first animal to be cruelly tortured.  Multiple examples exist across the Commonwealth, and now is the time for the legislature to act swiftly to take action against those who commit such heinous crimes.

The scheduling of Thursday’s hearing is a call to action for legislators, public officials, organizations, and all who care about animal welfare in our Commonwealth.  With limited time remaining in this legislative session we must deliver a united, clear, and compelling message that the legislature needs to act in a bold and decisive way to confront senseless acts of cruelty with strong penalties for abusers and a comprehensive system to prevent abuse and assist animals in distress.”

Senator Tarr’s Statement on the One Year Anniversary of the Boston Marathon Bombings

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding the one year anniversary of the April 15, 2013 Boston Marathon Bombings:

“Today marks the one year anniversary of the tragic Boston Marathon bombings that left us all wounded and scarred due to the horrific actions of terrorists.  The attack on Boston shook the very core of our society, triggering great concern for our safety and the safety of our loved ones. 

Sadly the bombs took the lives of Krystal Marie Campbell, Lu Lingzi, and Martin William Richard, and during the manhunt to catch the suspects, we lost MIT Police Officer Sean Collier.  In total another 264 people were injured near the marathon’s finish line, many of whom lost limbs.

An act of terror is meant to intimidate, as much as it is meant to kill and maim; however, what the terrorists failed to contemplate was the strength of Bostonians and the people of Massachusetts.  With the assistance of public safety officials, first responders, hospital personnel, government agents, volunteers, and people from around the country and the world, we grew stronger as we united together. 

No matter how hard terrorists try to break down our society and our values as Americans, they will never breach our trust and faith in one another, and although a year has passed since the events of that infamous day occurred, we remain Boston Strong, and I couldn’t be more proud.”

Sen. Ross Appointed to Domestic Violence Panel

Senator Richard Ross (R-Wrentham) was recently appointed to a panel focused on initiatives to combat domestic violence. Ross and colleagues from the House and Senate will craft compromise legislation as part of a conference committee.

 

“Curbing domestic violence is a challenge that we must take on. We need to help victims and increase penalties for future perpetrators,” said Senator Ross. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to address this problem.”

 

The legislation provides employment leave to victims of domestic violence to address matters related to the abuse. It also establishes the crime of strangulation, and increases penalties for other domestic violence crimes.

 

The Senate and the House of Representatives passed differing versions of this legislation. This conference committee has been assembled to create a compromise bill that will be presented to Governor Patrick for his approval.

Senator Tarr’s Statement on the Passage of a Natural Gas Leaks Bill

Yesterday Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement regarding the passage of S.2073, An Act relative to natural gas leaks:

“Today’s passage by the Senate of S.2073, An Act relative to natural gas leaks, is an important step for public safety and our environment.  When Wayne Sargent’s house exploded in January, 2009 in Gloucester we all saw firsthand the devastating consequences of gas leaks.  Through this legislation we can put in place a classification and management system that will not only compel timely and effective responses to leaks that pose immediate threats, but also cause the systemic and effective replacement of an aging transmission system that often causes those leaks in the first place.

            Wayne has been a critical force in getting this bill passed.  His inspiration, motivation, and thoughtful suggestions have been valuable assets in the legislative process.

            Hopefully we can now advance the bill engrossed by the Senate today swiftly through final passage and onto the Governor’s desk to become law.”

###

 

* Photo Caption:

Gloucester Police Officer Wayne Sargent, whose house exploded in January 2009 due to a natural gas leak, stands with Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) in the Senate Chamber after the passage of S.2073.



Senator Hedlund's Statement on Governor's 'Road Recovery' Program Announcement

Senate Assistant Minority Leader Robert L. Hedlund, the ranking member of the state’s Transportation Committee, issued the following statement on the Patrick Administration’s announcement of a $40 million “Road Recovery” program:

“The number should be $100 million.  That’s the amount the Governor shortchanged cities and towns when he released just $200 million of the $300 million authorized by the Legislature.  There are misplaced priorities in the Governor’s Transportation spending plan.  The additional $100 million for cities and town should be at the top of his list, not pie-in-the-sky capital projects.”

Senator Tarr Discusses Judiciary Committee Backlog on Fox 25 News

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr made two appearances on the Fox 25 news program last night to discuss the backlog of bills that have been awaiting action by the Judiciary Committee.  A total of 791 bills are still pending in committee, including several bills to protect children from sex offenders, and more than 200 are still waiting for a hearing, including a bill addressing parole for juvenile murderers and the Protecting Animal Welfare and Safety Act (the PAWS Act) filed in the wake of the horrific Puppy Doe case.

To watch both segments, please click on the video link below.  A complete list of all 791 bills still pending before the Judiciary Committee is posted just below the video link.

Boston News, Weather, Sports | FOX 25 | MyFoxBoston

Judiciary Bills by Troy Wall

Senator Tarr’s Statement Regarding a DCF Audit by Auditor Bump

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding the release of a two-year audit of the Department of Children and Families by Auditor Suzanne Bump:

“Today’s audit report issued by Auditor Bump reconfirms the risks posed to vulnerable children because of deficiencies and systematic problems at the Department of Children and Families.  Now, more than ever, it is clear that reforming this agency needs to be a priority for the Legislature and the Administration, and the job needs to be done in a timely and effective way.”

MEDIA ALERT: Senator Ross on Fox 25 at 5

 

Senator Richard Ross, the Ranking Republican on the Senate Ways and Means Committee, will be appearing on Fox 25 news this afternoon to discuss SenateBill 787, An Act Relative to Divorce.  The segment will air at 5 p.m.  To learn more about the bill, please click here.

Republican Legislators Seek to Freeze UI Rate Increase

Today House Minority Leader Brad Jones and Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr distributed the following press release:

House and Senate Republican Lawmakers Decry Inaction on Unemployment Insurance Rate Freeze

Impending April Increase to Cost Small Businesses Hundreds of Millions of Dollars

BOSTON - With a drastic increase to the Massachusetts unemployment insurance rate taking effect during the first quarter, House and Senate Republican lawmakers have filed legislation to freeze the unemployment insurance rate at its current level. The move comes after continued inaction from the Democratic-led Legislature to act on preventing an increase to the unemployment insurance rate paid by thousands of small businesses across the Commonwealth.

Led by House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) and Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester), Republican lawmakers are attempting to prevent a $500 million exposure to businesses, should Democratic legislators fail to act on legislation protecting hardworking entrepreneurs across Massachusetts.

“By leveraging the freeze of our state’s unemployment rate as a means to obtain their desired minimum wage level, Democratic lawmakers have signaled their willingness to use the Commonwealth’s small businesses as a pawn in their political game,” said State Representative Brad Jones. “At this time, it is an extreme disservice to businesses throughout the Commonwealth to not consider this proposal separately based on its merit.  A freeze of the unemployment insurance rate is imperative for both our state’s workforce and entrepreneurs. If not approved immediately, this increase will have a negative impact on our economy.”

The effort to prevent an increase to the state’s unemployment insurance rate comes six months after Republican legislators were successful in advocating for the repeal of the crippling technology tax which was approved by Democratic lawmakers. As was the case with the largest and broadest tax on computer and software services in the nation, an increase of 33% to the rate incurred by small businesses in regards to unemployment insurance will have a long-lasting and negative effect on the businesses that are the backbone of the Massachusetts economy.

“Freezing unemployment insurance rates is critical to the viability and sustainability of employers and jobs in our state, and if we don’t act now we will be risking serious damage to our economy,” said Senator Bruce Tarr.  “The House and Senate may well continue to be divided over issues like the minimum wage, but there can be no doubt that we should act immediately on behalf of the commonsense a freeze represents.”

Having been filed in both the House and Senate, House Docket 4163, An Act Relative to the Unemployment Insurance Rate, awaits assignment to a legislative committee.

Media Alert: Sen. Tarr on the Air with Fox 25

Tonight, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will once again be a special guest on the Fox 25 Evening News, where he will be discussing with Investigative Reporter Mike Beaudet the recent arrest of a level 3 sex offender charged with indecent assault and battery on a child under the age of 14, reckless endangerment of a child, enticement of a child, and dissemination of pornography to a minor.

To watch this evening’s discussion, please tune in tonight at 5:00 p.m.

Senator Tarr’s Statement on a Report Issued Today by the Child Welfare League

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding a report issued by the Child Welfare League, who has been hired to review the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families:

“Today’s progress report from the Child Welfare League makes it clear that we have substantial work to do to reform the Department of Children and Families, and to ensure that the health, safety, and well-being of vulnerable children are not jeopardized by this agency.

The report confirms the need for responsible caseloads, more modern technology and better medical screening protocols, and woven through all of these issues is greater accountability at all levels.

In addition, the report also points to the immediate need to confront the problem of granting waivers for children to be placed in homes with those convicted of felonies and other crimes.  There is a clear contrast between the situation we have today and the system we need to have, which bans some placements outright and puts in place monitoring and accountability to protect the children in others.

Changing from a system that grants waivers to one that requires approval, as expressed in the report, reflects the intent of the amendment offered by Senate Republicans and approved by the Senate on February 13th, to require that the safety and necessity of these placements be certified in writing before they are allowed.”

Senate Republican Caucus Seeks to Address Major Loophole within State Employee Travel Expense Regs

Confronting a situation that has recently been highlighted by travel and other expenses incurred by commissioners and employees at the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), Assistant Minority Leader Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth), Senate Minority Whip Donald Humanson (R-Westfield), and Senator Richard Ross (R-Wrentham), the Ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Ways and Means are filing legislation this week that would further regulate expenditures made by state employees.

Current law mandates all governing bodies that receive state appropriations to follow strict travel expense guidelines.  However, because the Massachusetts Gaming Commission does not receive such appropriations, the commission has interpreted that the regulations do not apply.  The bill authored by the Senate Republican Caucus, which is also available for co-sponsorship by the members of the legislature, eliminates the wording of “state appropriations” to make the regulation all-inclusive.

“Our state’s expense rules need to be clear, understandable, and even-handed,” said Senator Tarr.  “These commonsense reforms achieve those goals and go a long way toward preventing abuses and extreme expenses.”

With unclear travel spending regulations, which were originally codified in 2004, outrageous expenditures may occur if left unchecked.  Recently, the Boston Business Journal found employees of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to be lavishly spending during business trips nationally and internationally.  Their review of over 700 credit card charges and expense reimbursements from May 2012 to the end of 2013 found employees of the commission spent nearly $85,000 on airfare, $61,000 on hotel accommodations, and $37,000 on meals.

Compelled to address a number of problems with the current law, the bill seeks to resolve the ambiguity of the state employee travel reimbursement regulations by:

• clarifying the reimbursement rules regarding lodging, entertainment, airfare, and other travel expenses;

• applying the state reimbursement rules to every state employee; and

• removing the current distinction between managers and employees.

“These loopholes, if left unchanged, would at the very least create a cloud of impropriety, and at the very worst, allow widespread abuse,” said Senator Tarr.  “With state government continuing to evolve, this measure aims to instill confidence by removing speculation to ensure state employees are spending precious dollars appropriately.”

Statement on a Local Aid Resolution Agreement

Today Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr released the following statement regarding the announcement of a proposed local aid resolution:

“Local aid accounts are critical for municipal budgets and providing essential services such as education and police and fire protection, and an early local aid resolution is an important tool to provide valuable information to the municipal officials who are working now to write city and town budgets.

Because of that importance, consideration of a local aid resolution is a welcome opportunity for debate about how best to help our cities and towns. In that debate we should consider the context of a likely increase in state spending of almost 5%, and aspire to reach beyond increases in Chapter 70 spending which account only for inflation and incremental increases per pupil that resemble those we have seen in the past.

Similarly, if the state budget is going to increase by 5%, we need to address Unrestricted General Government Aid more than we have over the past several years, and in a way that addresses the projected performance of the lottery and the needs of our municipal partners in government.”

Senate Republican Caucus Succeeds in Securing Transparency Amendment in Transportation Bond Bill

Today the Senate Republican Caucus distributed the following press release regarding a transportation bond bill the Massachusetts State Senate passed on Thursday, March 6:

Senate Republican Caucus Succeeds in Securing Transparency Amendment in Transpo Bond Bill

Caucus Vows to Continue to Fight for Accountability and Responsibility in State Transportation System

 

Boston- On Thursday, March 6th, the Massachusetts State Senate debated a transportation bond bill that totaled more than $13 billion to assist in the financing of transportation projects throughout the Commonwealth.  Among the 237 amendments filed, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), Assistant Minority Leader Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth), Senate Minority Whip Donald Humason (R-Westfield), and Senator Richard Ross (R-Wrentham), the Ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Ways and Means succeeded in securing an amendment to S.2023, An Act financing improvements to the Commonwealth’s transportation system, that would instill needed transparency and allow for more accountability within two of the state’s major transportation agencies.

The amendment, which passed unanimously by a roll call vote of 38-0, requires the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to post an annual report to the MassDOT website of all financial activities.  It also requires the MBTA to post an annual itemized budget online, allowing anyone the opportunity to scrutinize and examine the expenditures made by the agency.

“Our state government spends billions of taxpayer dollars on a system of transportation that people depend on every day, said Senator Tarr.  “It makes sense to open the doors of accountability to allow people to see how their money is being spent, and compare those expenditures with the value they are getting when they drive on a roadway or ride on a train.”

While this amendment passed overwhelmingly, several other amendments aimed at increasing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the state’s transportation system were offered unsuccessfully by the caucus, which will continue to pursue them in other venues.  They include:

• Requiring the secretary of transportation to issue a five-year plan prioritizing the repair and maintenance of existing transportation infrastructure over expansion projects, also known as the Fix it First Plan;

• Prohibiting the MBTA from undertaking expansion projects without first conducting a cost analysis and demonstrating that sufficient revenue exists or will be generated to operate and maintain the expansion project; and

• Prohibiting the registrar from raising Registry of Motor Vehicle fees until after the secretary of transportation has reported on the status of a mandate requiring all state transportation employees’ salaries and benefits being funded through the operating budget, and not with bond money.

“In order to increase transparency within our state government and instill the system with greater integrity, it is paramount that measures like these are vigorously pursued at every opportunity, and the Senate Republican Caucus will continue to fight for a more transparent and efficient state government,” said Senator Tarr.

The transportation bond bill was engrossed by the Senate by a unanimous vote of 38-0.  The House previously passed its version of a transportation bond bill, and now the two chambers will work together to reach an accord.

N.E. Commercial Fisheries to Receive Federal Aid

Today Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr released the following statement regarding the announcement that the New England commercial fisheries will receive almost $33 million in fisheries disaster relief aid:

“Our commercial fishing industry is facing a prolonged crisis that threatens its very survival, and these funds represent a critical lifeline for fishing families and ports.  Although the amount is modest in the context of the threat, it does represent recognition by the federal government of its obligation to provide resources in the face of this dilemma.  Now, the funds need to get to the people who need them without delay, without being sacrificed to the costs of overhead and bureaucracy, and without a mistaken belief that they will solve the problems the industry faces.

Hopefully, with these funds at work to prevent immediate extinction of commercial fishing in Massachusetts and New England, we can use the time they buy to chart a course for better management, and a groundfishery that can survive now and prosper in the days ahead.”

Please click here to read New Bedford Stand Times Reporter Steve Urbon’s latest report on the fisheries disaster relief money.

Senate Approves Restrictions, Inquiry into Foster Care Placements with Individuals having Prior Criminal Records

The Senate today approved temporary restrictions on the placement of children under the care of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) in foster homes with individuals who have a prior criminal record.

The amendment, offered by Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) and the Senate Republican Caucus, prohibits DCF’s approval of any new foster care placements involving individuals or family members convicted of a felony, unless there are specific written findings on the necessity of such placement and a finding that the placement poses no threat to the safety of the child.  The amendment was approved on a roll call vote of 32-5 as part of a $196.4 million supplemental budget passed by the Senate today.

The amendment also requires the Office of the Child Advocate to examine all such existing foster care placements to ensure the safety of each child, and to determine whether or not such placement is appropriate.

The Senate’s actions follow recent media reports indicating that DCF has allowed foster parents with prior criminal records to take children into their homes in 650 cases since 2013.  There are currently 552 active homes caring for children where the guardian has a prior criminal conviction.

Under DCF policies that were last updated in 2008, prospective foster parents who have been convicted of crimes such as soliciting sex from a minor, motor vehicle homicide, and armed assault are not automatically disqualified from becoming foster parents, and can seek a waiver from DCF.  This is due in part to a 2000 Superior Court decision.

According to recent media reports, DCF maintains a “discretionary” list that includes about 110 crimes applicants can have on their records and still qualify as foster parents.  Some of these offenses include:

·         inducing sex from a minor;

·         soliciting a prostitute;

·         possessing obscene “pornographic” material;

·         assault and battery with a dangerous weapon,;

·         armed burglary;

·         involuntary manslaughter;

·         motor vehicle homicide while driving under the influence; and

·         trafficking in cocaine or heroin within 1,000 feet of a school

Last December, the Massachusetts Senate Republican Caucus – led by Senator Don Humason (R-Westfield), the Caucus’ representative on the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities – released a letter calling for an independent investigation into the failures of DCF regarding the disappearance of Jeremiah Oliver.  Oliver, a five-year-old Fitchburg resident, went missing last fall while under DCF care, and his whereabouts remain unknown.

The supplemental budget now heads to the House of Representatives for further action.

An Interesting Editorial

In today’s Gloucester Daily Times, the newspaper cites an important issue regarding the federal government’s REAL ID Act, and the repercussions citizens of the Commonwealth will soon face if the state doesn’t comply with the federal law.

To read today’s editorial, please click here.

Senator Tarr’s Statement on Unemployment Insurance Reform

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today, following the Senate’s adoption of an order scheduling debate on an unemployment insurance reform bill for Thursday, February 6^th:

“The need for reforming our broken unemployment insurance system is clear, and legislative action is long overdue.  Senate Republicans have been offering reforms consistently for the past several years.  Finally, the opportunity is before us to take the steps necessary to implement lasting reforms that will encourage businesses to hire workers, make the system fair for all, and prevent the types of abuses that have plagued the system for years, while at the same time ensuring that the trust fund remains solvent.

Now that it appears the Senate is serious about bringing this issue to the floor, we will be offering a series of amendments to achieve these goals.  Hopefully, this week we can pass the type of real reform bill that we have been calling for repeatedly, and one that will break the cycle of perennial rate freezes while positive change waits for action.”

Senator Tarr's Statement on the DOC’s Decision to Appeal Latest Ruling in Kosilek Case

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today following reports that the Department of Corrections will appeal a 2-1 decision made by a panel of First Circuit of Appeals judges that ruled to uphold U.S. District Judge Mark Wolf’s 2012 ruling that the Department of Corrections were in violation of Michelle Kosilek’s constitutional rights by denying her gender reassignment surgery:

“The recent decision made by a panel of First Circuit Court of Appeals judges to uphold an earlier decision ordering the Department of Corrections to provide a gender reassignment surgery for a convicted killer is not only outrageous, but injudicious.  Providing extraordinary surgery for someone who has committed 1st degree murder isn’t a wise decision for state tax payers and certainly doesn’t serve the interests of justice in Massachusetts or a precedent for the rest of the country.

I applaud Governor Patrick and the Department of Corrections’ decision to appeal this ruling. It sets a bad precedent that will result in serious ramifications that go beyond just the borders of the Commonwealth.”

MEDIA ALERT: Tarr on 'Greater Boston' Tonight

Tonight at 7:00 p.m., Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) will be a featured guest on WGBH’s Greater Boston with host Emily Rooney.  Senator Tarr will be discussing with Emily and Defense Attorney Jack Cuhna a bill that he filed that would provide parole for juveniles convicted of 1st degree murder.

Please tune in to watch tonight’s segment. To learn more about the bill, please click here to read a previous blog post.

MEDIA ALERT: Senator Hedlund on 'Broadside' Tonight

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth) will appear live on “Broadside” tonight, where he will join host Jim Braude for a discussion of issues raised by Governor Patrick and President Obama in their State of the Commonwealth and State of the Union speeches last night, including the minimum wage and other issues likely to come up for debate during the 2014 legislative session.

“Broadside” airs live at 6 p.m. on New England Cable News, and repeats at 7:30 p.m., 2:30 a.m. and 4 a.m.

Senator Tarr's Statement on Governor Patrick's State of the Commonwealth Address

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement last night regarding Governor Patrick’s State of the Commonwealth Address:

“Tonight Governor Patrick has spoken eloquently about the strengths of our Commonwealth, and the many attributes of the people of our state. In doing so he has recounted our challenging path through a long and difficult recession, and expressed our prospects for recovery.

Yet the Fiscal Year 2015 budget he has delivered to the legislature creates serious concerns. First, it increases state spending by nearly 5%, an ambitious amount in light of the fluctuating revenue patterns of the past several months, and it depends on revenue from gaming, though it’s proving difficult to get even one facility started in the state.

Unfortunately, the governor’s proposal also once again incorporates new taxes and stabilization fund withdrawals into the state spending plan, continuing a trend of dependence on these things even as we should be seeking to move away from them to build a solid foundation for future prosperity.

Hopefully as the legislative process unfolds we can chart a new course toward prosperity, and one which spends the dividends of robust economic growth rather than making tax increases and one-time revenue measures an integral part of every budget discussion. There are many ways to accomplish that goal, and we must be bold enough to pursue them.”

MEDIA ALERT: Senator Hedlund to Discuss Flood Insurance on 'Greater Boston' Tonight

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth) will be appearing on tonight's edition of "Greater Boston" with host Emily Rooney.  Senator Hedlund will be discussing the redrawn federal flood insurance rate maps and how they are affecting the towns in his district and across the state.  Be sure to tune in to WGBH Channel 2 at 7 p.m. to watch the discussion.

Senator Tarr's Statement on an Independent Investigation of DCF

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding an independent investigation of the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families conducted by the Child Welfare League of America:

 

“A thorough and unbiased third-party investigation is necessary and important to correcting problems at DCF, and my hope is that the Child Welfare League of America can provide such an investigation.  At a minimum it must be as comprehensive as possible, be able to go where the facts take it, seek and use information from many sources, and be produced through a transparent, accountable process that is supported by sufficient resources to get the job done.

 

The facts surrounding the case of Jeremiah Oliver, and those that have surfaced as a result of that case, are deeply disturbing and they demand that we all work to address this situation in an effective manner.  I appreciate today’s update from Governor Patrick, and hope that he will continue to openly report on the progress of CWLA’s efforts.”

Media Alert: Senator Tarr On the Air with Fox 25

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will once again be a guest on the Fox 25 News to discuss a bill he recently filed that would set parole for juveniles convicted of first degree murder.  Please tune in at 6:15 p.m. to watch tonight’s segment.

Coalition of Legislators File Parole Eligibility Bill for Juveniles Convicted of 1st Degree Murder

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) and State Senator Barry Finegold (D-Andover) have joined with a coalition of legislators including Senators Richard Ross (R-Wrentham), Donald Humason (R-Westfield), James Timilty (D-Walpole), Richard Moore (D-Uxbridge), Eileen Donoghue (D-Lowell) and Joan Lovely (D-Salem), and Representative Theodore Speliotis (D-Danvers) in filing legislation requiring juveniles convicted of first degree murder to serve a minimum of 35 years before becoming eligible for parole.

The legislative measure comes on the heels of a 2012 United States Supreme Court decision stating that it is cruel and unusual punishment for states to require all juveniles who commit the crime of murder to be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, and a decision made last year by the Massachusetts Supreme Court ruling that all juveniles convicted of first degree murder under the age of 18 must be eligible for parole.

“In the wake of court decisions eliminating life without parole for these offenders, we must act now to ensure that those murderers serve the sentences their crimes deserve, and that we protect public safety from their premature release,” said Senator Tarr.  “If we must consider parole in these cases, it must be done with respect to victims and their families and the security of our communities as much as to the rights conferred by the judiciary.”

The bipartisan, bicameral bill, which meets the recommendation of District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett and the Massachusetts District Attorneys Association, was filed on Tuesday and currently has a total of 22 sponsors.  More legislators are expected to sign-on to the public safety bill before the deadline of Friday, January 31st at 5:00 p.m.

“The Supreme Court said that it is cruel and unusual punishment that a juvenile would have to spend their life behind bars without parole, but it is also cruel and unusual punishment that after only 15 years and every 5 years thereafter, a victim’s family would have to relive such a horrible tragedy,” said Senator Finegold.

Currently, due to the courts’ recent rulings, Massachusetts now requires parole eligibility of 15-25 years after a first degree murder conviction, which is the same period for a second degree murder conviction.  The new process will now allow families of victims to appear before the parole board to provide testimony and relive the tragic details concerning the death of a loved one, making it difficult to ever truly recover from such a horrific event.

The family of Beth Brodie said “Serving fifteen years of a life sentence does not seem like a reasonable punishment for a killer of any age.  Could we find a number of years that’s more reasonable?  No we don’t think we could, but this feels like a slap in the face.  Preparing for parole hearings forces us to re-live the worst days of our lives.  The pure and innocent are paying the price for the evil and twisted.  We seek justice, justice for Beth Brodie, justice for all families involved.”

“Lost in the decision of the Supreme Judicial Court is justice for victims and those that mourn such devastating losses. We are thankful for this effort to right a great injustice for victims and their families. It is our hope that Senator Finegold’s proposal will pass the legislature and be signed into law so that those convicted of first degree murder serve longer sentences before they are eligible for parole and therefore prevented from harming others,” said the Ritzer family.

Once the deadline has past, the bill will be assigned to a committee for further action.

MEDIA ALERT: Senator Tarr on Fox 25 Today

This evening at approximately 5 p.m., Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will once again be a guest on the Fox 25 News.  The topics scheduled for discussion include Governor Patrick’s latest climate control plan, and the effects recent storms have had on coastal communities.

Please tune in to watch tonight’s discussion.

MEDIA ALERT: Sen. Tarr on 'Broadside' Tonight

 Tonight at 6 p.m., Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will be a featured guest on NECN’s “Broadside” with host Jim Braude.  They will be discussing the failures of the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, and the need for an independent investigation to review the practices and procedures of the department.

 “Broadside” re-airs at 8 p.m., and again at 3:30 a.m.

Senator Tarr's Statement on Governor Patrick's DCF Comments

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today, following news reports that Governor Deval Patrick is considering a third party investigation of the Department of Children and Families in light of the disappearance of 5-year-old Fitchburg resident Jeremiah Oliver:

“The situation involving the Department of Children and Families and a missing child continues to demand an independent investigation as to not only what has occurred in the Oliver case, but also the systemic deficiencies which led to this young child’s disappearance and which may be contributing to other problems if left undetected.

The Senate Republican Caucus has been consistent and unmistakably clear in its call for an independent investigation into this matter by the Auditor, the Inspector General, or a combination of both.  Governor Patrick’s remarks, as reported today, reflect his beginning to acknowledge the necessity of that type of investigation.  We certainly welcome his support for what we have requested and for shining a bright light on the workings of this agency that is so critical to the welfare of some of our state’s most vulnerable children.

First and foremost, we must understand the problems that may be ingrained in the system and need to be rectified immediately.  Adding a new department within the agency may only increase bureaucracy at the expense of ensuring that every child is adequately and effectively served by those who handle cases on the front lines of this agency.

Every child involved with this agency is potentially at risk.  That is why we need to make sure the system works for everybody, rather than creating a new specialized bureaucracy for some.”

MEDIA ALERT: Senator Tarr on Fox 25

On Thursday morning, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will once again be a guest on the Fox 25 News, where he will be discussing a bill he recently filed that would authorize the Division of Marine Fisheries to establish a Massachusetts Seafood Marketing Program.  Please tune in at approximately 8:45 a.m. to watch tomorrow morning’s segment.

Senator Tarr on the Air with NECN

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr was recently interviewed by NECN Reporter Peter Howe regarding a bill he filed that would authorize the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries to establish a Massachusetts Seafood Marketing Program. To view the segment, please play the posted video below.