Debate Over 'Hack Holidays' Heats Up Again

Last year, when Governor Patrick signed the Fiscal Year 2011 state budget, it included an outside section mandating that all government offices in Suffolk County be open on Evacuation Day (March 17) and Bunker Hill Day (June 17) to better serve the public. Now things seem to be heating up once again as individuals working in Suffolk County on those two days will now be paid holiday-pay due to union contracts. Check out what the Boston Globe and the Boston Herald have to say about the holidays that are still costing taxpayers.

Senator Tarr Interviewed as Part of State House News Service Video Series

Mike Deehan of the State House News Service sat down with Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr on Tuesday to discuss a wide range of issues, including the Governor's proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2012 and the role of the Senate Republican Caucus. Use the video link below to check out the interview in its entirety.

Senator Tarr, Rep. Wong Discuss 'Three Strikes' Bill with WRKO's Michele McPhee

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr was a guest on yesterday's Michele McPhee program on WRKO radio. Tarr and first-term State Representative Donald Wong discussed their "Three Strikes" bill, which cracks down on repeat sex offenders who prey on young victims by imposing tougher sentences and eliminating their chances of securing a reduced sentence or parole. In case you missed it, be sure to check out the audio clip by clicking on the photo.

Senator Hedlund Debates the Dream Act

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Robert Hedlund was an in-studio guest on Fox 25's 10 O'Clock News recently, where he took part in a lively discussion on the federal Dream Act, which would require states to provide in-state tuition rates to undocumented students attending public colleges and universities. Hedlund offered his thoughts on why the Dream Act is bad public policy. To see the interview in its entirety, just click on the posted photo.

Senator Tarr Issues Statement on Unemployment Insurance Rate Freeze Vote

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr has released the following statement regarding today’s Senate vote on Senate Bill No. 8, a proposal to freeze the unemployment insurance rate for Massachusetts’ employers:

“By taking action today and freezing the rate schedule, we are effectively reducing the average premium increase for employers from a devastating 40 percent to a more manageable 10 percent, while saving them an average of $193 per employee. The Senate’s decision to take up this matter now reflects the sense of urgency that we all feel in trying to provide immediate financial relief to the state’s small businesses. The money that will thus remain in the private sector will pay lasting dividends by spurring economic growth and recovery from the recession.

I want to be clear, however, that the Senate Republican Caucus’ support of this rate freeze is by no means an indication that we are satisfied with continuing with the status quo. On the contrary, we see today’s vote as nothing more than a stop-gap, band-aid approach to a much bigger problem that will require substantial reforms if we hope to achieve true and lasting long-term relief for the businesses we rely on to create jobs and drive the state’s economy. We look forward to a vigorous debate on these reform proposals as the new legislative session unfolds, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that this debate takes place as soon as possible.”

Senator Hedlund Discusses 'Melanie's Law' Reforms with Fox 25's Gene Lavanchy

Senate Assistant Minority Leader Robert Hedlund made an in-studio appearance on the Fox 25 Morning News on Tuesday to discuss the state's efforts to strengthen its drunk driving laws with co-host Gene Lavanchy. Senator Hedlund has re-filed legislation to close some of the loopholes in Melanie's Law, which was passed in 2005 and targets repeat offenders. Check out the video link below to watch the interview in its entirety and learn more about Senator Hedlund's proposal, which calls for the expanded use of ignition interlock devices.

New DUI laws: What's in the new bill?: MyFoxBOSTON.com

Sen. Knapik Weighs in on Probation Reforms

Senator Michael R. Knapik (R-Westfield) joined with his colleagues from the Probation Reform Working Group this week in releasing their recommendations to reform the embattled Massachusetts Probation Department. Check out the Springfield Republican article below to read what Senator Knapik had to say about the report. A copy of the report and recommendations can be found below the article.

Study Group Calls for MA Probation Overhaul

Probation Reform Working Group Report.1.31.11

Senate Republican Committee Assignments

Yesterday I released the following press release regarding the Senate Minority Party’s committee assignments. To view all committee assignments please click “here”.



Senator Tarr Announces 2011-2012 GOP Committee Assignments


Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) has announced the following Republican committee assignments for the 2011-2012 legislative session:

Senate Assistant Minority Leader Robert L. Hedlund (R-Weymouth) has been named to the Senate Committee on Post Audit & Oversight and the Senate Committee on Global Warming & Climate Change. Hedlund will also serve as a member of the Joint Committees on Children, Families & Persons with Disabilities; Community Development & Small Business; Elder Affairs; Environment, Natural Resources & Agriculture; Housing; Labor & Workforce Development; Public Health; and Transportation.

Senator Michael R. Knapik (R-Westfield), the ranking Republican member of the Senate Ways & Means Committee, will retain that position and will also serve as a member of the Senate Committee on Ethics & Rules and the Senate Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures & State Assets. In addition, Knapik has been named as a member of the Joint Committees on Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure; Election Laws; Financial Services; Public Service; Revenue; Telecommunications, Utilities & Energy; and Veterans & Federal Affairs.

Senate Minority Whip Richard J. Ross (R-Wrentham) has been named to the Senate Committee on Ethics & Rules and the Senate Committee on Ways & Means. Ross will also serve as a member of the Joint Committees on Economic Development & Emerging Technology; Education; Higher Education; Judiciary; Mental Health & Substance Abuse; Municipalities & Regional Government; and Public Safety & Homeland Security.

Tarr, who is currently serving his first term as Minority Leader, will serve on the Senate Committee on Bills in Third Reading and the Senate Committee on Steering & Policy. His Joint Committee assignments include Health Care Financing; Redistricting; State Administration & Regulatory Oversight; and Tourism, Arts & Cultural Development.

“The challenges facing Massachusetts are considerable but not insurmountable,” said Senator Tarr. “We may not hold the majority of seats in the Senate, but the role of the Senate Republican Caucus is more important than ever as we look to lead the Commonwealth through the difficult times that lie ahead. Every Republican Senator will be energized and engaged in that role, and I look forward to working with Senators Hedlund, Knapik and Ross in the upcoming legislative session as we try to make Massachusetts more affordable and state government more responsive to the needs of its citizens.”

Boston Globe Highlights Parole Reform Bill

Today's Boston Globe features a front-page story on the comprehensive parole and sentencing reform bill filed by members of the Senate Republican Caucus and several of their Democratic colleagues. Be sure to check out the story below to learn more about the proposed reforms and how they stack up against other states.

State Parole Bill Could Have Wide Consequences

ON THE AIR: Senator Tarr to be Featured on Fox 25's 'Monday Morning Quarterbacks'

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr is scheduled to join former Attorney General Scott Harshbarger as part of the "Monday Morning Quarterbacks" segment on the Fox 25 Morning News next week. Tarr and Harshbarger will be live in-studio on Monday, January 31st at approximately 7:15 a.m. for a spirited discussion of some of the top state and federal issues. Be sure to tune in.

Senator Tarr's Statement on Governor Patrick's Fiscal Year 2012 State Budget Proposal

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr has released the following statement regarding Governor Patrick's unveiling of his Fiscal Year 2012 state budget proposal:

"The true test of this budget will be how it meets the significant financial challenges facing the Commonwealth and whether the proposal truly achieves savings or merely shifts costs among the state's agencies and programs. We look forward to reviewing this document with an eye toward whether it achieves lasting reforms and accountability or moves us closer to sacrificing priorities and the potential for tax increases."

More Work to be Done on Jobs Creation

The statewide unemployment rate in Massachusetts is holding steady at 8.2 percent, a promising sign after hitting 9.3 percent in December of 2009. But according to the State House News Service, not all areas of the state are sharing in this positive trend on the jobs front.

Citing local employment figures released today by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, the State House News Service is reporting that “unemployment rates in December rose in half of the state’s 22 labor market areas.” In some areas of the state, unemployment still remains in double-digits, including Fall River (13.8 percent), New Bedford (14 percent) and Athol (11.7 percent).

The latest unemployment figures serve as a stern reminder that the Commonwealth still has a long way to go before it can recover the thousands of jobs lost during the global recession and create a more business-friendly environment that will encourage companies to grow and expand here. The Senate Republican Caucus considers jobs creation a top priority, and will be offering a variety of legislative proposals to accomplish this goal during the 2011-2012 session.

In Case You Missed It...

The bi-partisan parole and sentencing reform bill unveiled at yesterday's State House press conference has been drawing considerable media attention.

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, the bill's lead sponsor, was a guest on Fox 25's 10 o'clock News Monday night and on the Fox 25 Morning News earlier today (see video clips below). Tarr was also interviewed by former Boston Phoenix reporter Adam Reilly for a pre-taped segment that ran on WGBH's Greater Boston last night (Senate Minority Whip Robert Hedlund was host Emily Rooney's in-studio guest, along with former Senator Warren Tolman). He also called in to WRKO following the press conference to discuss the proposed reforms package with Michele McPhee, the station's new early afternoon host.

Be sure to check out the additional coverage from the Boston Globe, Worcester Telegram & Gazette and WBUR radio.

Lawmakers seek parole changes after cop killing: MyFoxBOSTON.com

Senator Tarr Talks Parole Reform on Fox25

Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr will be an in-studio guest on tonight's Fox 25 News broadcast at 10:00 p.m. Tarr will be discussing legislation he has filed with many of his Senate colleagues -- Republicans and Democrats -- to reform the Massachusetts Parole Board and the criminal sentencing process.

Senators Unveil Parole Board Reforms

Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester) and Senate Ways and Means Vice Chairman Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) are leading a bipartisan coalition of Senators calling for a series of comprehensive reforms at the state's parole board, including stronger sentencing laws for repeat offenders. The coalition, which includes all four members of the Senate Republican Caucus, held a press conference at the State House this afternoon to unveil their proposal.

Be sure to check out the State House News Service's coverage by playing the video link below. For more information on the press conference, go to today's posting on Tarr Talk.

GOP Seeks Objectivity in Redistricting

The Senate Republican Caucus issued the following press release today regarding the need for an independent redistricting commission:

Seeking to infuse the redistricting process with objectivity and avoid the legal challenges that have tarnished the process in the past, the Senate Republican Caucus is calling for the establishment of an independent redistricting commission to assist lawmakers in the drawing of new legislative boundaries for members of Congress, the Legislature and the Governor’s Council.

Senate Republicans have filed language to create the new advisory commission, which will be charged with developing a redistricting plan that will be subject to legislative approval prior to its implementation. The Senate is scheduled to take up the proposal as part of its rules debate on Thursday, January 20, but the Caucus will also be filing it as a stand-alone bill for the 2011-2012 session.

“The voting rights of every citizen in the Commonwealth are affected by redistricting, and it requires our strongest efforts,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr. “The commission we are proposing would infuse objectivity and expertise into a very complex process that would benefit from both. Our voters deserve the best we can give to redistricting, and the commission would provide guidance free from the traditional politics that have decided who we send to Beacon Hill and Capitol Hill.”

The League of Women Voters, Common Cause, former Governor Mitt Romney and Governor Deval Patrick have all endorsed the concept of an independent redistricting commission in the past. A MassINC poll released earlier this month shows that 62 percent of Massachusetts residents also favor using such a commission.

“Poll after poll has shown the public has grown tired of the traditional political games surrounding redistricting,” noted Senator Michael R. Knapik. “An independent commission would ensure that districts are apportioned appropriately in an impartial manner guided by principle and rooted in fairness. This legislature should move beyond power plays and parochialism and adopt districts that make historical, geographic, and economic sense.”

Senate Republicans have proposed creating a seven-member redistricting commission, which would be comprised entirely of non-elected individuals who would be selected based on their civic involvement and their knowledge of redistricting policy, civil rights, political science, voting rights and other areas of expertise. The proposal also requires that the members reflect, as much as possible, the geographic, racial, ethnic, gender and age diversity of the state’s population.

Under the proposal, the Governor would appoint a dean or professor of law, political science or government from a Massachusetts institution of higher learning, while the Attorney General would select a retired justice and the Secretary of State would name an expert in civil rights law. To ensure bipartisan balance on the commission, the four remaining members would be chosen from a list of nominees submitted by the House Speaker, House Minority Leader, Senate President and Senate Minority Leader.

“The concept of an independent commission clearly favored by Massachusetts residents, will take the politics out of the process and in so doing help to ensure fairness and integrity in our electoral process,” said Senate Minority Whip Robert L. Hedlund.

The Caucus proposal calls for the commission to hold public hearings across the state, and to release a preliminary redistricting plan for public comment no later than April 20, 2011. A final, revised plan would be submitted to the Legislature’s redistricting committee by July 29, 2011.

“It is imperative that the redistricting process not only be fair but free of political influence,” said Senator Richard J. Ross. “By establishing an independent redistricting commission, I believe we will be able to obtain the best legislative districts possible while making sure all constituents are well represented.”

Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. -- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Today, on what would have been his 82nd birthday, Scaling The Hill honors the legacy of the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr. and his lifelong dream of equal rights and justice for all Americans.

Be sure to check out today's Tarr Talk posting to read Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr's thoughts on Dr. King's legacy.

ON THE AIR: Senator Tarr Discusses Parole Reforms on WRKO's 'Tom & Todd Show'

Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr was a guest on this morning's "Tom & Todd" Show on WRKO. Tarr joined co-hosts Tom Finneran and Todd Feinburg for a discussion on the need for comprehensive reforms at the state's Parole Board. If you missed it, you can hear the interview in its entirety by clicking here.

Senator Hedlund Discusses Parole Reform

Senate Minority Whip Robert L. Hedlund was a guest on Thursday night's edition of "Greater Boston" on WGBH-TV. Hedlund joined former State Senator Warren Tolman and host Emily Rooney for a discussion of yesterday's Parole Board resignations in the aftermath of the December 26th shooting death of Woburn Police Officer John "Jack" Maguire at the hands of parolee Dominic Cinelli. Hedlund also detailed some of the reforms members of the Senate Republican Caucus are working on to overhaul the current system and enhance public safety. To view the interview in its entirety, just click on the video link below.

Sen. Tarr's Statement on Parole Board Reforms

Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr released the following statement concerning Governor Patrick’s announcement today of his planned “action steps” to reform the state’s Parole Board:

“The Governor has taken important steps to arrest the threat to public safety presented by the current parole board and its methods of operation. Now the clock begins ticking on the process of implementing lasting and substantial reforms that will dismantle the processes that have so clearly failed us and to rebuild a parole and sentencing system where a life sentence means a life sentence and professionals in law enforcement have the necessary standing in parole decisions to keep us all safe.

We look forward to receiving and reviewing the report ordered by the Governor as soon as possible. Based on our review of the report, and in consultation with criminal justice professionals, we’ll be coming forward with a comprehensive series of legislative steps to promote fairness, predictability, truth in sentencing and public safety.”