“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.”
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* 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.
